The Social Security Administration handles several important federal programs. Many contact me each month with questions about their retirement, Medicare, and their applications for disability benefits.
If you need assistance with an SSA issue, please:
Complete a Digital Privacy Release Form
Print and complete a Paper Privacy Release Form (please print legibly)
Social Security FAQs
How long does it take to process Social Security Disability Claims?
|
An application for Social Security Disability can take from 6 weeks to several years to handle, depending on various factors.
Click here to find detailed information about this process
Click here to find your local Social Security office
The times below are merely estimates, but represent what people in the 14th District have experienced over the past few years:
Initial Processing - 6 to 8 weeks
- Some cases are approved in this first step. If your case is denied at this level, you are encouraged to apply for Reconsideration.
Reconsideration - 6 to 8 weeks
- Like the Initial Processing, this is all done through paperwork. If your case is denied here, you are encouraged to request a hearing in front of an Administration Law Judge.
Hearings and Appeals - 9 to 12 months
- An Administrative Law Judge will hear your claim at this level. It usually takes 9 to 12 months to get a hearing. It can take a few months longer to get a decision. You may want to get an attorney or other qualified individual to help represent you in your hearing. If you are denied at this level, you can appeal your case to the Appeals Council.
Appeals Council - 24 to 36 months
- If your claim is not approved by the Appeals Council, your only option is to file a lawsuit if you want to continue your claim. |
| |
Your local Social Security office can help you with this issue.
|
The FCC accepts complaints regarding all aspects of broadcasting including: telemarketing, telephone slamming, improper taxes, obscene broadcasts, and broadcast interference.
File a complaint with the FCC online. |
| |
What can the Congresswoman do to help with my disability claim?
|
I am always happy to help constituents who need assistance with a disability claim. However, there are limits to what I can do.
At my request, Social Security officials will "flag" a particular case and keep me updated throughout the process. This communication can really help a person understand what is happening with their case, so they can make other decisions regarding their life and family.
However, I cannot act as the "representative" on a person's disability paperwork. You may want an attorney to help you with this. My actions will not affect the work done by the person you select as your representative. I also do not have the authority to overturn any decision made by the Social Security Administration.
After you file the paperwork for disability benefits with your local Social Security office, I would be pleased to follow the progress of your claim. If you would like my help, please print out this Authorization Form and fax or mail it to my Tampa office. |
| |
How can I get information about my Social Security retirement benefits?
|
Your local Social Security office can help you with this issue.
Click here to find your local Social Security office |
| |
Social Security WebSite
Medicare Website
|
If you have questions or comments about any issue involving the Social Security Administration, feel free to call my office.
|
Financial Hardship Form
|
|
