St. Petersburg and Clearwater Social Security Disability Attorneys

If you have a physical or mental disability that is keeping you from being able to work, then you may be eligible Social Security Disability benefits through the Social Security Administration. The federal government supplies disabled workers with these benefits so that they can be taken care of financially.

Our St. Petersburg and Clearwater Social Security Disability Attorneys are here to help disabled workers get the benefits they need and deserve. Whether you need help with your initial application or need assistance with your appeal, we will help you navigate this complicated process. We can make sure you have the best prepared claim so that we can avoid delays or inaccuracies with your paperwork. We encourage you to call us now at 727-823-0000 for help in St. Petersburg and Clearwater.

How Do I Know if I am Eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits?

There are actually several reasons that may dictate whether or not you are entitled to Social Security Disability benefits, including:

• You have a serious physical or mental condition that keeps you from being able to
• Your short-term disability has run out
• You have recently been diagnosed with an illness or injury
• You have a disabled child that has turned 18, but still requires care

If you have a physical or mental disability that is preventing you from being able to work, then you may qualify for Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) outlines what physical conditions they consider a disability, which you can view here. Some of the physical impairments that will qualify a person for SSDI benefits include, but are not limited to:

• Cancer
• Blindness
• Chronic heart failure
• Hearing loss
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Kidney Disease
• Chronic Liver Disease
• Parkinson’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Hematological Disorders
• Skin Disorders
• Endocrine Disorders
• HIV/AIDS

If a mental illness/disorder is keeping you from working, then you may also be entitled to recover SSDI benefits. While many people fail to realize that mental disorders are covered, these can be just as debilitating as physical impairments, and the SSA has approved a list of mental illnesses and disorders that are classified as disabilities.

• Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders
• Affective disorders
• Mental retardation
• Eating disorders
• Bipolar disorder and other forms of depression
• Anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders
• Somatoform disorders
• Personality disorders
• Substance addiction disorders
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Trauma and stress-related disorders

It is important to note that if you have another type of physical or mental condition that is not covered under what is called the SSA blue book, you can still qualify. On that same note, if you have a listed condition under the SSA blue book, you are still not guaranteed benefits. You must be able to demonstrate your impairments are keeping you from being able to work. Hiring an experienced lawyer is often the best option for achieving success in these matters.

How Can I Get Started with the Application Process?

If you have recently learned that you may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits and are wondering about how to get started, we can help. You can apply for benefits, over the phone, online, by mail, or in person at your local Social Security office. We are more than happy to help you get started and can file your application online with your assistance. Keep in mind that many of the questions the Social Security Administration asks are tricky and if you do not answer correctly, then you could experience significant delays or even a denial on your application status. Your odds of having a successful outcome are much higher when you work with an attorney who is experienced in handling these matters.

We Can Offer You the Hands-On Guidance You Need

A staggering number of Social Security Disability claims, around 70% in fact, are initially denied. Many of these valid claims are denied due to errors or technicalities, which is why it is definitely worth your time to consult with an attorney who can assist with your claim. Our St. Petersburg and Clearwater Social Security Disability Attorneys at Whittel & Melton can ensure that you have the personalized and effective legal counsel you need when it comes to gaining SSDI benefits.

We are happy to help you with the following:

• Review and prepare all necessary forms and documents
• File your application accurately
• Meet all deadlines
• Request an appeal if your Social Security Disability benefits are denied
• Keep you updated on the status of your claim
• Handle all legal aspects of your claim, from paperwork to administrative procedures.

We Are Here to Fight for the Social Security Disability Benefits You Have Been Denied

If you claim has been denied for medical or nonmedical reasons, we can help. Social Security administrators deny claims for many reasons, sometimes for medical reasons and sometimes for work-related reasons. We strongly recommend having an attorney on your side to fight for you appeal, rather than attempting it on your own. We have years of experience handling these types of claims and will put that experience to work for you. Call us today at 727-823-0000 or contact us online to request a free consultation where we can answer your questions and develop a strategy that is tailored to meet your needs.