Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti, P.A. Helping South Florida families navigate disability benefits for over 40 years.
Download our guide to Disability here.
Applying for Social Security Disability can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re already dealing with serious health issues. Below are answers to the questions we hear most from clients throughout Florida.
What Qualifies as a Disability?
To qualify for SSDI or SSI, the Social Security Administration must find that:
-
You can no longer do the work you did before
-
You cannot adjust to other work because of your condition
-
Your condition has lasted — or is expected to last — at least 12 months or result in death
Strong medical documentation is critical. We help clients gather and present the evidence SSA requires.
Have I Worked Enough to Qualify for SSDI?SSDI is based on your work history. Most people qualify if they:
-
Earned enough work credits through payroll taxes
-
Worked 5 of the last 10 years
The number of credits needed depends on your age. We can review your earnings record and tell you where you stand.
What’s the Difference Between SSDI and SSI?
| SSDI | SSI |
|---|---|
| Based on work history | Based on financial need |
| You paid into Social Security | Work history not required |
| May qualify family members | Strict income and asset limits |
Many people qualify for one — some qualify for both.
How Do I Apply for Disability Benefits?
You can apply:
-
Online at SSA.gov
-
By phone
-
At your local Social Security office
You’ll need medical records, work history, education details, and information about your daily limitations. Mistakes or missing information are common reasons for delays or denials — this is where experienced legal help makes a difference.
How Much Will I Receive?
-
SSDI payments are based on your past earnings
-
SSI payments are based on financial need and federal limits
SSDI recipients may also qualify for Medicare, while SSI recipients often qualify for Medicaid.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Decision?
There’s no set timeline. Some cases move quickly; others take months or longer. But be prepared that a case from initial filing through a hearing can take up to 2 years in Florida. Delays often occur due to missing medical records or paperwork. We help keep your claim on track and respond quickly to SSA requests.
Why Are So Many Disability Claims Denied?
Most first-time applications are denied. Common reasons include:
-
Insufficient medical evidence
-
Incomplete forms
-
SSA believes you can still perform some type of work
If you’re denied, you have the right to appeal — and having an attorney significantly improves your chances at the hearing stage.
Can I Work and Still Receive Benefits?
Yes — SSA has programs that allow you to try returning to work without immediately losing benefits. The rules are complicated, and earning too much too soon can jeopardize your payments. We help clients understand how to test their ability to work safely.
Do I Really Need to Hire an Attorney?
But let the statistics answer the questions:
Why Work with Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti?
For more than 40 years, our firm has helped Florida clients:
✔ Apply the first time correctly
✔ Avoid delays and common mistakes
✔ Build strong appeals after denials
✔ Represent them at disability hearings
You don’t pay us unless you win.
Need Help With a Disability Claim?
If you’re applying for benefits or appealing a denial, experienced guidance can make all the difference.
Call us 24/7 @ 305‑653‑5555 Text us @305-653-1515 or email us @ [email protected]
Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti — Trusted. Experienced. Results‑driven.
