From the legal team at Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti — proudly advocating for Florida’s disabled workers and families for over 40 years.
Applying for Social Security Disability in Florida can feel confusing and overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with serious health issues. If you’re asking yourself whether you qualify, what benefits are available, or how long it will take to receive them, you’re not alone. At Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti, we simplify the complex process and guide our clients through every step.
In this guide, we explain how to apply for disability in Florida, what programs may apply to your situation, how long approval can take, how much you could receive, and how working with our experienced legal team can help improve your chances of success.
Understanding Disability Benefits in Florida
Florida does not have its own state disability program, but residents may be eligible for one or more of the following:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) — A federal program for people who have worked and paid into Social Security. You typically need to have worked 5 of the last 10 years.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) — Designed for individuals with severe disabilities who have minimal income and assets. You can qualify even if you haven’t worked recently.
- Private Short- or Long-Term Disability Insurance — Usually provided through an employer or purchased individually. Claims are filed with the insurance company and often require an SSDI application as well.
- Veterans Disability Benefits — If you’re a disabled veteran, you may qualify for VA disability benefits tied to your service.
Most applicants in Florida rely on SSDI and SSI. That’s our focus in this article.
Who Qualifies for SSDI or SSI in Florida?
To qualify for SSDI, you must:
- Be under retirement age (currently 67)
- Have a medical condition that keeps you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death
- Have earned enough work credits (typically 5 of the last 10 years)
To qualify for SSI, you must:
- Meet the same medical standards as SSDI
- Have less than $2,000 in assets (or $3,000 if married)
- Have very limited or no income from any source
While both programs adhere to the same medical standard, their financial requirements differ significantly.
What Conditions May Qualify You for Disability?
The SSA recognizes a wide range of disabling conditions, which it refers to as Listings. Common ones include:
- Musculoskeletal issues (e.g., arthritis, spinal conditions)
- Mental health disorders (e.g., depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder)
- Neurological disorders (e.g., epilepsy, multiple sclerosis)
- Cardiovascular diseases (e.g., congestive heart failure)
- Cancer and immune disorders
If your condition is listed under SSA’s “Compassionate Allowances,” your application may be expedited.
How to Apply for Disability Benefits in Florida
You can apply:
- Online at SSA.gov
- By phone at 1-800-772-1213
- In person at your local SSA office (you can find your local office here)
You’ll need to:
- Gather medical and financial records
- Complete a detailed application
- Submit any supplemental forms requested
- Follow up with SSA and respond quickly to requests
Working with a qualified attorney ensures your application is complete, accurate, and positioned for approval.
How Long Will It Take to Get a Decision?
- Initial Decision: 7–12 months on average
- Reconsideration (1st appeal): 5–10 additional months
- Hearing with an Administrative Law Judge: 6–12+ months, depending on location
It typically takes 1.5 to 2 years to reach a final decision. The fastest way to move your case forward is to meet every deadline and submit complete records. That’s where our team makes the most significant impact.
What Does Disability Pay in Florida?
- SSDI: Average monthly payment is $1,391.59, with a maximum of $3,822 depending on earnings
- SSI: Maximum monthly payment is $943 (2024). Most Florida recipients receive around $629/month
To estimate your payment, visit SSA.gov and create a “mySocialSecurity” account.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Disability Attorney?
You pay nothing upfront. Our fee is a percentage of your back benefits (25%, capped at $9,200). If you don’t win, you don’t pay.
Why Work with Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti?
For over 40 years, we’ve helped thousands of Florida clients:
- Apply for SSDI or SSI correctly the first time
- Avoid avoidable delays and denials
- Gather critical medical records and forms
- Present strong appeals and represent clients at hearings
Applicants with an attorney are three times more likely to win benefits than those who go it alone.
Ready to File or Appeal? Let Us Help.
You don’t have to navigate this process alone. Whether you’re applying for the first time or appealing a denial, our team is ready to step in.
Call 305-653-5555, text us at 305-653-1515 or email [email protected] to schedule your free consultation.
Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti — Trusted. Experienced. Results-driven.
Serving disability clients throughout Florida.
