To apply for disability benefits in Florida, you need to follow these steps:
1. Determine Eligibility
- You must have a medical condition that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
- You must be age 18 or older.
- You should not be currently receiving disability benefits on your own Social Security record.
- You must not have been denied disability benefits in the last 60 days
2. Gather Required Information and Documentation
Prepare the following before applying:
- Personal information: date and place of birth, Social Security number, and details about your spouse and children.
- Medical records and statements from your doctors supporting your disability claim.
- Work history for the past 15 years.
- Bank information for direct deposit of benefits
3. Submit Your Application
You can apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits in Florida through one of three methods:
- Online: Apply conveniently at the Social Security Administration (SSA) website.
- By Phone: Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).
- In Person: Visit your local SSA office; it is recommended to make an appointment in advance
4. After Applying
- Your application is reviewed by the Florida Division of Disability Determinations (DDD), which assesses your medical and non-medical evidence to decide if you meet SSA’s disability criteria.
- The initial decision typically takes 3-5 months.
- If approved, you will start receiving benefits.
- If denied, you have the right to appeal the decision
Additional Tips
- Be thorough and consistent in your application responses.
- Consider seeking assistance from a disability lawyer or advocate to help gather evidence and complete paperwork.
- Keep copies of all documents submitted and maintain communication with SSA during the process
This process is federally managed but has some state-specific nuances in Florida, such as approval rates and additional benefits like Medicaid and SSI eligibility
