St. Petersburg Social Security Disability Attorneys

Aggressive Advocacy for Your Disability Claim

If you are unable to work due to a catastrophic injury or mental illness, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. The application process can be difficult to navigate on your own, but our team at Burnetti, P.A. is here to help.

Our St. Petersburg SSD attorneys have the experience and resources to fight for you. We know how to navigate the system to get you the benefits you deserve. We are ready to help you get the compensation you need.

To schedule a free consultation with our Social Security Disability lawyers in St. Petersburg, FL, call (727) 240-3050or contact us online.

What is Social Security Disability?

Social Security Disability is a federal program designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a qualifying medical condition. There are two primary types of Social Security benefits:

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) – Available to individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of years.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – Provides benefits to disabled individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of work history.

These programs are administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and are intended to help cover basic living expenses such as housing, food, and medical needs when you are unable to earn a paycheck.

Eligibility for Social Security Disability

To qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits, you must meet strict eligibility requirements set by the SSA:

• Medical Condition – Your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from performing any substantial gainful activity (SGA).
• Duration – The condition must have lasted, or be expected to last, at least 12 months or result in death.
• Work Credits (for SSDI) – You must have earned enough work credits through past employment to qualify for SSDI benefits.
• Income and Resource Limits (for SSI) – For SSI benefits, your income and assets must fall below certain limits.

The SSA also maintains a “Blue Book” list of impairments that automatically qualify as disabilities if certain criteria are met. Even if your condition is not on the list, you may still qualify if you can prove it severely limits your ability to work.

Reasons Your Claim is Denied

Unfortunately, the majority of initial SSD applications are denied. Common reasons for denial include:

• Insufficient Medical Evidence – Not providing detailed, consistent medical records that support your disability claim.
• Failure to Follow Treatment – If you do not follow your doctor’s prescribed treatment plan, the SSA may deny your claim.
• Lack of Work History or Credits – For SSDI, you must have a sufficient number of work credits.
• Exceeding Income Limits – Earning above the substantial gainful activity level may result in denial.
• Incomplete Application – Missing or inaccurate information on your application can lead to rejection.

At Burnetti, P.A., we can help you avoid these pitfalls by preparing a complete, accurate, and well-documented claim from the start. If your claim has already been denied, we can represent you in the appeals process to fight for the benefits you deserve.

Social Security Disability FAQs

How long does it take to get a decision on my SSD claim?

Initial decisions typically take three to six months. If you appeal a denial, the process may take longer, depending on hearing wait times in Florida.

Can I work while receiving SSD benefits?

You may be able to work part-time and earn below the substantial gainful activity limit without losing benefits. The rules differ for SSDI and SSI, so it’s important to speak with an attorney.

What medical conditions qualify for SSD?

Conditions such as cancer, heart disease, severe back injuries, mental disorders, and neurological conditions may qualify. The SSA evaluates each case individually.

What if my claim is denied?

You have the right to appeal. The appeals process includes several stages: reconsideration, a hearing before an ALJ, review by the Appeals Council, and finally, federal court if necessary.

Do I need a lawyer to apply for SSD?

While you are not required to have legal representation, statistics show that applicants with an attorney are more likely to be approved, especially during the appeals process.

How Burnetti, P.A. Can Help

Navigating the SSD process is complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our St. Petersburg Social Security Disability lawyers can:

• Review your eligibility and determine which program you qualify for
• Gather and organize the medical evidence needed to prove your disability
• Ensure your application is complete and free of errors
• Represent you during hearings before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
• Handle all communications with the SSA on your behalf

Our goal is to take the stress off your shoulders while giving you the best possible chance of securing the benefits you need.

You Deserve a Strong Advocate

Applying for SSD benefits can be overwhelming. If you are unable to work due to a catastrophic injury or a mental illness, you deserve to get the benefits you need to support yourself and your family. Our experienced Social Security Disability attorneys in St. Petersburg can help you get the benefits you deserve. We are ready to help you get the compensation you need.

Contact us onlineor call (727) 240-3050to schedule a consultation.