How to Apply for Temporary Disability in Florida

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Before applying, it's important to understand whether you qualify for temporary disability benefits in Florida. Since Florida doesn’t have a state-run temporary disability program, the main options for Florida residents are:

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI):

• Eligibility: SSDI is for individuals who have worked and paid into Social Security through their taxes but are unable to work due to a severe medical condition expected to last at least one year or result in death.
• How SSDI Works: It provides monthly payments to those with qualifying disabilities, but the process to qualify and get approved can take time.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI):

• Eligibility: SSI provides financial assistance to those who have limited income and resources, in addition to meeting the disability requirements.
• How SSI Works: This program is for low-income individuals with disabilities, including those who may not have sufficient work history to qualify for SSDI.

Workers’ Compensation:

• Eligibility: If your disability is work-related (i.e., caused by an injury on the job), you may qualify for Florida Workers’ Compensation benefits.
• How Workers’ Compensation Works: Florida law requires employers to carry workers' compensation insurance. It provides benefits, including medical care, wage replacement, and temporary disability payments for injuries or illnesses caused by work.

Short-Term Disability Insurance:

• If you have purchased short-term disability insurance through a private provider, you can apply for benefits through that policy. These plans typically offer a percentage of your income while you are temporarily disabled.

Step 2: Apply for SSDI or SSI

If you're seeking federal temporary disability benefits like SSDI or SSI, follow these steps:

Steps to Apply for SSDI or SSI:

• Gather Your Documents: Before applying, gather all necessary information such as:
• Your Social Security number.
• Medical records detailing your disability, including doctors’ notes and treatment history.
• Work history (for SSDI) and income/asset information (for SSI).

• Create a My Social Security Account: To apply online for SSDI or SSI, you must have a My Social Security account.
• Visit www.socialsecurity.gov and click “Create an Account.”
• After creating your account, you can apply for SSDI or SSI through the online application system.

• Apply Online or In-Person:
• Online Application: Go to the Social Security Administration’s website and choose to apply for SSDI or SSI online.
• In-Person Application: You can also apply by visiting your local Social Security office. You can schedule an appointment by calling 1-800-772-1213.

• Fill Out the Application: Be as thorough and detailed as possible. Provide information about your medical condition, when it began, and how it impacts your ability to work.

• Submit Supporting Documentation: Include:
• Medical records from your healthcare providers detailing your condition and treatments.
• Work history and income details (for SSDI applicants).
• Income and resource information (for SSI applicants).

• Wait for the Decision: Once you apply, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will review your application. If you are denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.

Step 3: Apply for Workers’ Compensation (If Applicable)

If your disability is related to an injury or illness that occurred while at work, you may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits in Florida. Here's how to apply:

Steps to Apply for Workers' Compensation in Florida:

• Report the Injury: Notify your employer immediately if you’ve been injured at work. Florida law requires you to report the injury within 30 days.
• File a Claim with the Employer’s Insurance Company: Once your employer is notified, they should provide you with a workers' compensation claim form. This form will need to be filled out and submitted to their insurance provider.
• Medical Documentation: Obtain medical records related to the injury or illness. You’ll need to provide this documentation to support your claim.
• Claim Review: The insurance company will review your claim, and you may need to attend an independent medical exam (IME) to determine the extent of your disability.
• Temporary Disability Benefits: If you qualify, you may begin receiving temporary disability payments while you’re unable to work. In Florida, workers’ compensation covers up to 66.67% of your average weekly wage, subject to limits.

Step 4: Consider Short-Term Disability Insurance

If you have purchased short-term disability insurance, it may provide you with immediate benefits while you recover from your illness or injury. Here’s how to apply for short-term disability benefits:

• Contact Your Insurance Provider: Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible to start your claim. You’ll need to provide medical records and any other documentation required by your provider.
• Submit Documentation: Submit the necessary documents, including doctor’s statements about your condition and how it affects your ability to work.
• Wait for Approval: After submitting your claim, your insurance provider will review the information and decide whether to approve your benefits.