(407) 712-7300Orlando SSDI Attorneys Serving Our Neighbors Throughout Florida
Social Security Disability lawyers in Orlando play a very important role in helping people who can no longer work due to a disability secure the financial support they need.
Social Security Disability benefits provide stability and assistance to those who are unable to earn an income. For many Floridians, these benefits are a lifeline. They help them meet their basic needs and support their families.
However, applying for and securing SSDI benefits can be daunting. Many claims are initially denied, leaving deserving people uncertain about their future.
At Colling Gilbert Wright, we believe that no one should have to take this on alone. Our Social Security Disability lawyers in Orlando are dedicated to helping people throughout Florida secure the benefits they deserve. With decades of experience and a devotion to integrity and justice, we stand by you every step of the way.
If you or a loved one is applying for Social Security Disability or your application has been denied, contact Colling Gilbert Wright online or at (407) 712-7300 today. Let’s set up a FREE case evaluation to discuss the next steps for your disability claim. We proudly serve our neighbors in Orlando and throughout Florida.
Understanding What Social Security Benefits Are Available in Florida
Social Security Disability is a federal government program that provides stability for people who can no longer work due to a disabling condition. For many disabled Floridians, Social Security Disability benefits provide the assistance they need to survive. It allows them to afford the necessities of life, like housing, food, and medical care.
Living life with a disability can be overwhelming and fraught with stress and frustration. Financial uncertainty only adds to the burden. Social Security Disability benefits help alleviate some of that worry. It allows people to focus on their well-being instead of struggling to get by.
There are two different forms of Social Security:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): SSDI provides income and benefits to people who have worked, paid Social Security taxes, and are now too disabled to work.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI is designed to provide financial assistance to disabled individuals who have limited income and resources, regardless of whether or not they have been employed in the past.
To qualify for either program, you must demonstrate that your disability prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses strict criteria to evaluate claims. It is critical to present compelling medical evidence.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility or nervous about collecting the medical evidence you need, we can help. Our Social Security Disability lawyers in Orlando can take a look at your claim and assist you in determining the best path forward. Schedule a FREE consultation with Colling Gilbert Wright today.
How Do I Qualify for SSDI and/or SSI Benefits?
Qualifying for SSDI and/or SSI benefits depends on meeting the specific criteria for each program:
- You must have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that significantly limits your ability to work.
- Your condition must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
- You must have sufficient work credits based on your age and work history. Generally, you need to have worked at least 5 of the last 10 years in jobs covered by Social Security.
- Certain family members (e.g., children, spouse, ex-spouse) of disabled individuals may also qualify for auxiliary benefits under specific conditions.
We know this can be difficult to deal with head-on. If you are unsure whether you meet the requirements for SSDI or SSI, our Social Security attorneys can assess your situation and guide you toward the right benefits program. Contact Colling Gilbert Wright to schedule a FREE case evaluation today.
What Disqualifies You from SSDI?
We understand that applying for Social Security benefits can feel like an immense undertaking, and being denied can be devastating. However, knowing the main disqualifying factors ahead of time can help you avoid pitfalls and improve your chances of a successful claim.
Some of the most common reasons SSDI claims are denied include:
- Earning income above the substantial gainful activity (SGA) threshold.
- Failing to provide sufficient medical evidence to prove your disability.
- Having a disability that is not severe enough to prevent you from performing any type of work.
- Failing to comply with prescribed medical treatments that could improve your condition.
If you’re concerned about any of these affecting your claim, reach out to us. We can help assess your situation and build the strongest claim possible to secure the benefits you need.
Applying for Social Security Benefits in Orlando, Florida
Applying for SSDI or SSI benefits begins with submitting a claim to the SSA. This will include thorough medical records, work history, and financial information. The SSA will carefully review each application to determine if the applicants meet the eligibility criteria.
The application process for SSDI and SSI can be complicated and time-consuming. Our Social Security attorneys will work with you to prepare your claim and apply for the benefits you need. We can help ensure that all necessary medical and employment records are included.
Many applicants are denied simply because of incomplete paperwork or insufficient evidence. We will help you avoid common mistakes and increase your chances of approval.
If your claim is denied, we will guide you through the appeals process and advocate on your behalf to get the benefits you need. Once your claim is approved, you may be eligible for retroactive benefits dating back to your initial application and, in some cases, even further.
Working with experienced and knowledgeable Social Security Disability lawyers in Orlando will greatly improve your chances of approval. Let us handle the details and pitfalls while you focus on your health and well-being.
What Can I Do If My Social Security Benefits Claim Is Denied?
A denied SSDI or SSI claim is not the end of the road. You have the right to appeal, and we can help you through every stage of this process:
1. Request for Reconsideration
This is a complete review of your application by a different SSA representative. This step allows for corrections to any errors or missing information in your initial claim, giving you a much-needed second chance at approval.
2. Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge
If reconsideration is also denied, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). This is your opportunity to present your case in person, provide additional medical evidence, and explain how your condition impacts your ability to work.
3. Appeals Council Review
If the ALJ denies your claim, you can seek a review from the SSA Appeals Council. The council will assess whether the judge made an error in their decision and determine if further review is necessary.
4. Federal Court Appeal
If necessary, we can take your case to federal court. This is the final level of appeal, where the federal judge will review your case independently from the SSA and ensure all legal procedures were followed properly.
Our Social Security attorneys are practiced in handling appeals and will fight for your right to benefits all the way to the federal court if need be.
How Do I Find a Good Social Security Disability Lawyer in Orlando?
Finding the right Social Security Disability lawyers in Orlando could be integral to the success of your claim. Look for a firm with:
- A reputation of handling SSDI and SSI cases with integrity and dedication.
- A commitment to personalized legal representation, so you are guaranteed to get the attention you deserve.
- Experience navigating the SSA’s rules and regulations with precision and follow-through.
- A strong ethical foundation, always striving to do the right thing for their clients—no matter the challenge.
At Colling Gilbert Wright, we take a client-focused approach to ensure you receive the advocacy you need with honesty, compassion, and commitment. We’ll walk this path with you from start to finish. You can count on us to do the right thing—and we will do it exceptionally well.
Do I Have a Better Chance of Getting SSDI and/or SSI With a Lawyer?
Statistically, claimants who work with a Social Security attorney are far more likely to win their claim. Our team understands the type of proof the SSA requires and can eliminate the possibility of errors being introduced in your complicated paperwork. This will increase your chances of receiving benefits without having to go through the appeals process.
Having legal representation also eases the burden of dealing with the system alone, particularly for those whose disabilities make it difficult to visit the SSA offices in person or handle the lengthy paperwork.
In addition, it is important to know that if your SSDI claim is not won, no fee will be collected. The benefits of working with a Social Security Disability lawyer in Orlando far outweigh the cost, providing invaluable guidance and support while increasing your chances of approval.
When Should I Hire a Social Security Disability Attorney?
It is best to consult with a Social Security lawyer as soon as possible. Whether applying for the first time or appealing a denial, having legal representation and guidance can improve your chances of receiving benefits.
When you go in for your no-obligation, FREE consultation, you will receive the best advice we can provide at no cost to you. Act quickly to ensure you take every opportunity available to secure the benefits you and your family need. Contact Colling Gilbert Wright today.
Questions We Are Often Asked About Social Security Disability
Getting Social Security Disability benefits can be a long, arduous process, and you will likely have many questions. At Colling Gilbert Wright, we know how overwhelming this can all feel. That’s why we take the time to answer every concern or question with clarity and care.
Below are some of the most common questions our Social Security Disability lawyers in Orlando hear.
How Long Will It Take Social Security to Reach a Decision About My Benefits?
The processing time for your Social Security Disability claim will vary depending on several factors, including the backlog of cases at your local office and the complexity of your condition.
Usually, initial claims take around 4–6 months to be reviewed. If your claim is denied, it can take anywhere from 3–5 months for a reconsideration (first appeal) to be processed. Should your claim require a hearing before an administrative law judge, you may have to wait an additional 9–15 months or more for a final decision.
Every case is different, and delays are common. Having distinguished legal representation by your side can help ensure your claim is complete, accurate, and well-supported, potentially avoiding unnecessary setbacks.
Can I Lose My Social Security Disability Benefits?
Yes, although it doesn’t happen often. The SSA periodically reviews cases to determine if a recipient remains eligible for benefits. If medical records suggest your condition has improved to the point that you can return to work, your benefits may be discontinued. Additionally, if you engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) by earning above the SSA’s income threshold, your benefits may be reduced or revoked.
However, losing benefits is not automatic. You have the right to challenge any decision that threatens your financial security. If you receive a notice about a medical review or potential termination of benefits, our Social Security attorneys can help you fight to keep the support you need.
Are My Children Entitled to Benefits?
Yes, in many cases. If you received SSDI benefits, your dependent children may qualify for assistance. Typically, children 18 and under (or under 19 if still in high school) can receive up to 50% of your monthly benefit amount. If you have multiple children who qualify, this amount is divided among them.
In some cases, disabled adult children may also be eligible for benefits if they developed their disability before turning 22. These benefits are crucial sources of financial stability for families struggling with the challenges of a disability.
Why Work With Our Social Security Benefits Lawyers?
Colling Gilbert Wright is built on a sturdy foundation of integrity, dedication, and client-focused advocacy. Applying for Social Security Disability is complicated, and appealing a denied claim can be an uphill battle. We believe in doing the right thing for you and following through to the very end. Every client deserves compassionate, skilled representation—and we give precisely that.
Our Social Security Disability lawyers in Orlando have decades of experience handling claims. We understand how to present strong medical evidence, avoid common mistakes, and fight against unfair denials. We stand by your side and help you through every challenge so you can provide for yourself and your loved ones.
From the moment you contact Colling Gilbert Wright, we make your case a priority. We are devoted to the folks we serve and will keep you informed every step of the way as we fight for your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I Eligible for Social Security Disability?
The Social Security Act provides benefits to individuals who become disabled after working in covered employment. To qualify, you must meet the work credit requirements, which vary based on age and when your disability occurred. Generally, you need to have worked at least 5 out of the last 10 years in jobs covered by Social Security. Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits.
In addition to work history, your disability must prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA)—meaning you cannot earn more than the federally established limit (e.g., $1,620 per month in 2025 for non-blind individuals). The SSA will evaluate your medical records, work history, and ability to perform alternative employment.
If you are unsure whether you meet the requirements, our Social Security attorneys can assess your case and guide you through the application process. Contact Colling Gilbert Wright today for a FREE consultation.
What Types of Disability Qualify for Social Security Disability?
The SSA defines a disability as an “inability to do any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.”
Qualifying disabilities include, but are not limited to:
- Musculoskeletal disorders
- Neurological disorders
- Mental health conditions
- Cardiovascular conditions
- Respiratory disorders
- Immune system disorders
Your condition must be backed by strong medical evidence. This could include diagnostic tests, physician’s assessments, and your documented treatment history. If your disability isn’t listed in the SSA’s Blue Book, you may still qualify. However, you will have to demonstrate severe functional limitations.
What Illness Automatically Qualifies for Disability?
Some conditions qualify for compassionate allowances (CAL). This means they receive expedited review due to their severity. The SSA maintains a list of compassionate allowance conditions. These include advanced cancers, ALS, and rare genetic disorders. Applications with these diagnoses are often processed in weeks instead of months.
Does Everyone Get Turned Down the First Time They Apply for Disability?
No, not everyone, but most applicants are denied initially. About 68% of SSDI applications were denied in 2023. These denials may be due to insufficient medical evidence, incomplete applications, or the assumption that an applicant can still perform some type of work.
However, a denial is not the end. You have the right to appeal within 60 days. Around 15% of applications submitted for reconsideration are approved, and roughly 51% of applicants who go on to the hearing stage are approved.
Having a Social Security Disability lawyer by your side will significantly improve your chances of getting your claim approved. And if you are denied initially, you know you have an ally with experience who can keep pushing for the benefits you deserve.
What Is the 5-Year Rule for Social Security Disability?
The 5-year rule refers to the timeframe in which you must have worked to qualify for SSDI benefits. To be eligible, you generally must have worked 5 out of the last 10 years before becoming disabled. The SSA uses a credit system, and you need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years.
If you don’t meet the 5-year rule, you may still qualify for SSI. SSI doesn’t require work credits but is instead based on financial need.
How Much Is a Disability Lawyer In Florida?
Social Security Disability lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis like we do here at Colling Gilbert Wright. That means you don’t have to pay anything upfront.
The SSA caps attorney fees at 25% of your back pay or $9,200, whichever is lower, as of November 2024. This makes legal assistance accessible to those who need it without the financial worry and risk.
Applying for SSDI or appealing a denial can be challenging, but you don’t have to go through it alone—and you don’t have to stress about paying upfront. The distinguished Social Security attorneys at Colling Gilbert Wright will fight for the benefits you deserve—and we don’t get paid unless you do. Contact us today to schedule a FREE consultation.
How Far Back Does Disability Pay?
SSDI benefits can include retroactive payments for up to 12 months before your application date if you can prove you were disabled before applying. However, there is a mandatory 5-month waiting period. Your first payment will not include those 5 months immediately following the beginning of your disability.
On the other hand, SSI benefits are only paid from the date of application approval forward. Therefore, filing early is critical to getting maximum benefits.
What Is the Maximum SSDI Payment?
The maximum SSDI payment varies yearly based on inflation and cost-of-living adjustments. In 2024, the maximum benefit was $3,822 per month. That is expected to have a 2.5% adjustment in 2025. Your actual benefit amount will depend on your work history and earning record.
Can I Still Get SSDI Benefits If I Go Back To Work?
Yes, but there are limitations. The SSA allows trial work periods where you can test your ability to work while still receiving benefits. You can work for up to nine months (consecutive or non-consecutive) before benefits are affected. After your trial period, benefits may stop if you exceed the substantial gainful activity threshold.
Before attempting to return to work, consult with your Social Security attorney. They can help protect your benefits and clarify your rights under SSA guidelines.
Contact Colling Gilbert Wright About Your Social Security Disability Claim
When you’re dealing with a disability, the last thing you need is the added stress of struggling to secure the benefits you deserve. At Colling Gilbert Wright, we recognize how life-changing these benefits are, and we are dedicated to making sure you receive them. You don’t have to face this alone—we’re here to guide, support, and advocate for you.
Our team of Social Security Disability lawyers in Orlando combines our knowledge and experience with a deep-rooted compassion for those we serve. Whether you’re applying for the first time or appealing a denial, we will handle the details so you can focus on your health and family.
Call (407) 712-7300 or contact us online today for a FREE case review. Let us help you attain the benefits you need to move forward.
