If you never paid into the Social Security system because you have not worked but you are disabled, it is logical to wonder if you would be eligible for benefits. The Social Security Administration assesses a claimant’s background including their work history to see if there are enough work credits to obtain SSDI. Without a job, you would have never paid your FICA taxes which are the taxes that go towards Social Security and Medicare.

In spite of your work history, there are still options that can allow you to obtain benefits when you are disabled. Stephen M. Andrews is a Florida SSDI attorney that can review the specifics of your situation and advise you on what opportunities are available. Stephen M. Andrews will answer your questions and provide you with effective guidance so that you can competently navigate the complicated SSDI system in Florida.

Florida Social Security Disability Benefits Without a Work History

Individuals without a work history or who have not worked for a very long time may still be able to get benefits but not necessarily through SSDI. Instead, these individuals may be able to obtain financial support through the Supplemental Security Income program. This program is applicable for adults without a work history as well as those that have worked but are in a situation where the amount of time away from work has lapsed their ability to obtain SSDI benefits. Additionally, the SSI system can also cover minor children.

Because the money that funds SSDI in Florida comes from taxes that are collected from your paycheck, if you haven’t worked enough you are less likely to be approved for Florida Social Security Disability benefits. If you are approved, expect the amount that you receive to be minimal. If you haven’t worked at all, you too, will not receive benefits through the SSDI system in Florida. 

The good news is that if you aren’t able to secure SSDI then you may be able to apply and receive financial support through Florida SSI benefits. Even if you are able to get SSDI but what you receive is very small, you may still be able to collect from SSI and SSDI simultaneously. Whether you pursuing your financial benefits through SSDI, SSI, or both, you won’t be approved if you cannot prove your disability as recognized by the Social Security Administration. 

There is a lot of paperwork that must be filled out when you file for benefits and the paperwork must be done correctly. Most initial claims are denied and many times it is because of administrative issues like errors with paperwork, and not because the claimant doesn’t have an eligible disability. Working with a Tallahassee SSDI attorney can help you avoid an initial claim denial by ensuring that your documentation and paperwork are done right. Your Florida SSDI lawyer can guide you through the process so that you understand what is happening and so that your whole experience is less difficult and time-consuming.

Speak to a Florida SSDI Attorney Today

Not being able to work for at least 12 months because of an injury or illness puts you in a position where you may be able to qualify for Florida SSDI benefits. If not, you may be able to obtain SSI support depending on your circumstances. To have your case evaluated for free by a Tallahassee SSDI benefits attorney please call Stephen M. Andrews today at (850) 906-9599.