Fort Lauderdale Social Security Income Lawyer | Englander Peebles

A skilled Social Security income lawyer can be an invaluable resource if your initial application for disability benefits has been denied. The Social Security Administration (SSA) denies the majority of first-time applications, and for individuals with limited income and resources who are unable to work because of a disability, receiving that denial can be discouraging.

It is important to remember that a denial does not mean the process is over. In many situations, it marks the beginning of the next phase in pursuing the benefits you may qualify for.

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program is designed to provide essential financial support, but accessing these benefits often requires navigating a complex and challenging federal system. Working with an experienced Fort Lauderdale Social Security income lawyer can greatly improve your chances of successfully appealing a denial and securing the assistance you need to move forward.

If you are ready to take the next step, call Englander Peebles at (954) 500-4878 to discuss your case and learn how we can guide you through this process.

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Table of Contents

• How an Englander Peebles Social Security Income Lawyer Supports Your SSI Claim
• Understanding Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Florida
• The Strict Eligibility Rules for an SSI Claim
• The SSA’s Five‑Step Process for Evaluating Disability
• Navigating the SSI Appeals Process in Broward County
• Building the Evidence for Your SSI Appeal
• Take the Next Step Toward Your SSI Benefits

How an Englander Peebles Social Security Income Lawyer Supports Your SSI Claim

Taking on the Social Security Administration by yourself can feel intimidating and often leads to frustration. The process is filled with strict deadlines, complicated forms, and detailed evidence requirements that can challenge even the most careful applicant.

When you work with an experienced Social Security income lawyer from Englander Peebles, you gain a trusted advocate who guides you through each step of your SSI case so you can focus on your health and well-being. Our team represents clients throughout Broward County and provides informed guidance and support at every stage.

A Partnership That Puts Your Needs First

Our work begins with listening. In a free, no‑obligation consultation, you can share your medical conditions, work history, and experience with the SSA. We review your denial letter and medical records carefully so we can give you a clear, realistic view of your case.

From there, we outline a clear strategy to move your claim forward. You do not pay any attorney fees unless we succeed in helping you secure benefits.

Guiding You Through the Appeals Process

The SSI appeals process involves several levels, each with its own deadlines and requirements. Missing a single deadline can force you to start over, which may cost you months or even years of potential back pay.

Our team takes care of the entire process for you. We handle all filings, from the Request for Reconsideration to preparing for a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.

We manage every communication with the SSA field office in Fort Lauderdale and the Office of Hearing Operations so you do not have to manage it on your own.

Building a Strong Medical Record

The strength of your medical evidence is often what makes the difference in an appeal. A diagnosis alone is not enough; you must show how your condition limits your ability to work.

We work directly with your doctors and specialists to gather detailed records, imaging reports, lab results, and opinions that clearly explain your limitations. We may also ask your physician to complete a Residual Functional Capacity form, which explains how your medical condition limits specific work activities the judge will consider.

Representation That Makes a Difference at Your Hearing

For many SSI claims, the hearing before an Administrative Law Judge is the most important stage of the process and often offers the best opportunity for a favorable decision. Before the hearing, your Fort Lauderdale SSI benefits lawyer will meet with you to review the types of questions you are likely to face and help you feel fully prepared.

During the hearing itself, your attorney will deliver an opening statement, guide your testimony to clearly explain how your condition affects your ability to work, question any experts the SSA calls, and finish with a strong closing argument on your behalf. Having skilled representation at this step can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Understanding Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Florida

SSI is one of two disability benefit programs administered by the Social Security Administration. It is a federal needs-based program designed to help aged, blind, and disabled people who have little or no income. It provides cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter. It is important to distinguish SSI from the other main disability program, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).

While SSDI is based on your work history and the payroll taxes you have paid, SSI is a needs-based program funded by general U.S. Treasury funds. You do not need a work history to qualify for SSI.

You simply must meet both the strict financial criteria and the medical definition of disability. Some individuals with a limited work history may even qualify for both SSI and a small SSDI payment concurrently.

The Strict Eligibility Rules for an SSI Claim

To qualify for Supplemental Security Income, you must meet two separate sets of requirements: financial (non‑medical) criteria and medical criteria. The SSA will only approve your claim if you satisfy both at the same time. If you fail to meet either set of requirements, your application will be denied.

The Financial Requirements for SSI

Because SSI is considered a program of last resort, the Social Security Administration places strict limits on the amount of income and resources an individual or couple can have. These rules are detailed and sometimes difficult to interpret, and even a small mistake in reporting can lead to a denial or future overpayment problems.

• Income Limits: The SSA looks at both earned income, such as wages from a job, and unearned income, which can include pensions, unemployment benefits, or financial assistance from family members. Not every dollar of income counts toward the limit. The SSA uses a specific formula to calculate your “countable income,” which must stay below a threshold tied to the Federal Benefit Rate. You can find the current rate on the SSA’s official website.
• Resource Limits: Resources are items you own that could be used for food or shelter, including cash, bank accounts, stocks, and real estate. In 2024, the resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. However, not all assets count toward this limit. The home you live in and usually one vehicle are exempt, along with personal belongings and household goods.

Understanding and applying these financial rules can be challenging, which is why working with an experienced SSI lawyer can help you avoid costly errors and keep your claim on track.

The Medical Requirements for SSI

Along with meeting the financial rules, you must also show that you meet the Social Security Administration’s strict definition of disability.

For adults, the SSA defines disability as the inability to perform any type of substantial gainful activity because of a medically proven physical or mental impairment. This impairment must be expected to result in death or must have lasted, or be expected to last, for at least 12 continuous months.

The term substantial gainful activity (SGA) refers to a certain level of work activity and earnings. If your monthly income is above the SGA limit, the SSA will consider you able to work and will deny your claim, regardless of how serious your medical condition may be.

The SSA’s Five‑Step Process for Evaluating Disability

To decide whether you are medically disabled, the Social Security Administration follows a strict five‑step sequential evaluation process. A knowledgeable Fort Lauderdale SSI attorney will build your case with these steps in mind. If the SSA determines at any point that you are not disabled, the review ends and your claim will be denied.

1. Are you working?

The first step looks at your current work activity. If you are working and earning more than the yearly substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit, the SSA will generally find that you are not disabled.

2. Is your condition severe?

Your medical condition must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work tasks. A minor or short‑term condition will not meet this requirement.

3. Is your condition on the SSA’s list of disabling impairments?

The SSA maintains a listing of medical conditions, known as the Blue Book, that are considered severe enough to qualify as disabling. If your condition meets all of the specific criteria in a listed impairment, your claim will be approved at this step.

4. Can you perform your past work?

If your condition does not meet a listing, the SSA assesses your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC), which measures what you are still able to do despite your limitations. The SSA then evaluates whether your RFC allows you to return to any of the work you performed in the past 15 years.

5. Can you adjust to other work?

If you cannot do your previous work, the SSA considers your RFC together with your age, education, and work experience to determine whether there are other jobs you could perform that exist in significant numbers in the national economy. If no suitable jobs are identified, your claim will be approved.

Understanding how these steps apply to your case is important, and having an experienced SSI attorney guiding you through them can make the process far less stressful and far more effective.

Navigating the SSI Appeals Process in Broward County

The path to receiving SSI benefits can be long and challenging, with several stages of appeal. A denial can feel discouraging, but understanding how the process works can help you prepare for what comes next with the support of a skilled South Florida SSI lawyer.

The Initial Application

You can file an SSI application online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. It is important that every section of the application is accurate and complete. Many initial applications are denied because of small errors or because the applicant did not submit enough medical documentation.

Reconsideration: The First Appeal

If you receive a denial letter, you have 60 days to file a Request for Reconsideration. At this stage, a different examiner and medical consultant review your case. Unfortunately, most reconsiderations, over 85 percent, are denied. Even so, this step is necessary before you can move on to the next level of appeal.

The Administrative Law Judge Hearing

If your reconsideration is denied, you have another 60 days to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. This hearing is often the most important stage in the entire process and offers the strongest opportunity to turn your case around.

In Broward County, many hearings take place at the Fort Lauderdale Office of Hearing Operations. During the hearing, an independent judge reviews your case in detail. You will testify under oath, and your attorney can submit new evidence, make legal arguments, and question any witnesses.

Further Levels of Appeal

If the judge denies your claim, you can ask the Social Security Appeals Council to review the decision. If the Council also denies your claim, your final option is to file a lawsuit in a U.S. District Court.

Building the Evidence for Your SSI Appeal

A strong appeal depends on presenting clear and convincing evidence. A Fort Lauderdale Social Security Income lawyer focuses on collecting and organizing this evidence so the judge sees a full picture of your medical and work-related limitations.

The Role of Medical Records

Your medical records form the foundation of your SSI case. They should include a clear diagnosis from an approved medical source and show a consistent history of treatment.

Regular care is important because long gaps between appointments can make it appear that your condition is not as limiting as you report. Following your doctor’s treatment plan is also important.

The Impact of a Doctor’s Opinion

In addition to medical records, a well‑supported opinion from your treating physician can add significant strength to your case. We work closely with your doctors to gather written statements or have them complete detailed forms that describe your ability to lift, carry, sit, stand, walk, concentrate, and interact with others in a work setting. This information plays an important role in how the judge evaluates your claim.

Take the Next Step Toward Your SSI Benefits

Living with a disability that prevents you from working is difficult, and dealing with the Social Security system at the same time can feel like too much to manage on your own. With the right legal guidance, you can navigate the process with confidence instead of facing it alone.

An approval for SSI benefits can provide the stability you need to focus on your health and meet your daily needs. A denial does not necessarily mean you are not eligible; it often means that more evidence and stronger advocacy are needed. We are ready to help you strengthen your case and move forward.

Call Englander Peebles at (954) 500-4878 to speak with a Fort Lauderdale Social Security income lawyer about your claim. Your consultation is free and confidential.

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Englander Peebles, Accident & Injury Lawyers – Fort Lauderdale Office