Social Security Disability Attorney in Bradenton

To qualify, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of “total disability.” That means you cannot perform your past work or adjust to new work because of a medical condition expected to last at least one year or result in death.

You also need sufficient work credits, which are earned by paying into Social Security through wages or self-employment taxes. The number of credits depends on your age at the time you became disabled.

• Conditions that often qualify include:
• Musculoskeletal disorders (like back injuries, arthritis)
• Neurological conditions (stroke, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy)
• Mental health disorders (severe depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder)
• Cardiovascular and respiratory diseases
• Immune system conditions, digestive tract disorders, and cancer
• Vision, speech, and hearing loss

If you’re unsure whether your condition qualifies, an attorney can help compare your medical records to the SSA’s “Blue Book” listings and determine if you meet the criteria, or if your case can still succeed under alternative rules.

The application process is paperwork-heavy, and missing a single form can mean delays or denial. Typically, you’ll need:

• Medical records from all treating providers
• Lab results, imaging scans, and specialist notes
• Work history and earnings records
• Medication lists and treatment history
• Statements from doctors about your limitations
• Financial records if applying for SSI (Supplemental Security Income)

The more complete your file, the stronger your claim. Attorneys often help gather and submit these documents on your behalf, so you don’t miss deadlines or critical evidence.

Though both programs provide disability benefits, SSDI is based on your work history and contributions to Social Security, while SSI is need-based and available to individuals with limited income and resources. Some individuals may be eligible for both, depending on their specific circumstances.

It depends on how much you earn. The SSA sets a threshold for “substantial gainful activity.” If you earn less than that limit while working part-time, you may still qualify for SSDI benefits. But if you cross the line, your benefits could be denied or terminated. An attorney can help clarify the rules and protect your eligibility.

Many denials happen for reasons that have little to do with the severity of your disability. Common pitfalls include:

• Missing medical records or insufficient documentation
• Earning above the income threshold
• Failing to follow the prescribed treatment
• Application errors or incomplete forms
• Lack of work credits under SSA rules

An appeal can often fix these issues, but only if it’s filed correctly and on time.

Don’t panic if you get a denial letter; many applicants do. The next step is the appeals process, which often includes:

• Reconsideration: A different SSA official reviews your claim.
• Hearing: You present your case before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
• Appeals Council Review: If denied again, you can request a review by the council.
• Federal Court: As a last resort, your case can be filed in federal court.

Each stage has deadlines, and missing one can result in the termination of your case. That’s why legal representation is so important during appeals.

Technically, you can file an appeal on your own. But statistics show that claimants with legal representation have a much higher success rate. A lawyer helps by:

• Gathering medical and vocational evidence
• Communicating with doctors and SSA staff
• Preparing you for your hearing
• Questioning vocational experts who testify at hearings
• Presenting your case clearly to the Administrative Law Judge

At Morgan & Morgan, we handle these hearings regularly and know what judges are looking for.

Approval times vary. Initial applications can take several months. Appeals often take longer, sometimes a year or more. While waiting can be frustrating, thorough preparation and complete medical documentation can help speed the process.

The good news is that if your claim is eventually approved, you may be entitled to back pay. This covers the benefits you would have received during the months (or sometimes years) your application was pending. The amount depends on when your disability began and the date you filed your claim. For many applicants, back pay provides critical financial relief after a long wait.

At Morgan & Morgan, there are no upfront costs to hire us for your Social Security Disability case. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you only pay if we win benefits for you. Even then, the fee is regulated by the Social Security Administration and is taken from a portion of your back pay, not your ongoing benefits.

Mental health conditions can absolutely qualify for benefits, but proving them can be more challenging than physical conditions. Strong documentation from psychiatrists, therapists, or psychologists, along with treatment history and impact on daily living, can make the difference in approval.

Yes. In some cases, dependents like spouses or children may be eligible to receive benefits based on your SSDI record. These auxiliary benefits can provide vital financial support to your family while you’re unable to work.

We prepare every client thoroughly. That means reviewing your testimony in advance, gathering additional evidence, and preparing to cross-examine vocational experts. Our attorneys explain the process in plain language so you know what to expect. And most importantly, we stand beside you in the hearing room, fighting for the benefits you deserve.

A denial doesn’t have to be the end of your SSDI journey. With the right representation, you can fight back and pursue the benefits you’ve paid into for years.

Schedule your free case evaluation today. At Morgan & Morgan, we have our “The Fee Is Free™” promise, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case.