HELPING FLORIDIANS WIN SSDI & SSI BENEFITS FOR OVER 30 YEARS
When a serious medical condition prevents you from working, Social Security benefits can provide critical financial support. However, the application process is complex, and most initial claims are denied.
Victor Malca has spent over three decades representing disabled individuals across Florida in Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims. From filing your initial application to fighting for you at a hearing, we build strong cases based on medical evidence to secure the benefits you deserve.
AREAS WE SERVICE INCLUDE:
WHO WE HELP
At Victor Malca Law, we assist clients from all walks of life. We are here for you if you are:
- A worker is sidelined by a long-term injury or illness.
- An individual struggling with a disabling mental health condition.
- A claimant whose application for benefits was denied and needs to appeal.
- A Spanish-speaking individual seeking clear legal guidance (Se Habla Español).
UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SSDI AND SSI
The Social Security Administration (SSA) manages two separate disability programs. We can help you determine which you may be eligible for.
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): This program is for workers who have paid Social Security taxes and earned enough “work credits.” The benefit amount is based on your past earnings. After a 24-month waiting period, SSDI recipients typically become eligible for Medicare.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): This is a needs-based program for individuals who are disabled, blind, or age 65+ and have very limited income and resources. The federal government sets a maximum monthly payment amount each year, and in Florida, SSI eligibility often comes with immediate Medicaid coverage.
You may qualify for both SSDI and SSI. Our team will review your situation to help you maximize your potential benefits.
DO I QUALIFY AS “DISABLED” UNDER SSA RULES?
To be considered disabled by the Social Security Administration, your condition must:
- Prevent you from performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA), which is work earning over $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals or $2,700 per month for blind individuals.
- Be expected to last for at least 12 continuous months or result in death.
During its review, the SSA evaluates your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC), what you can still do despite your limitations. It will also check if your condition meets or equals a medical impairment listed in its “Blue Book.”
Common conditions that may qualify include:
- Musculoskeletal disorders (back injuries, joint damage)
- Neurological conditions (MS, seizure disorders)
- Cardiovascular and respiratory diseases
- Cancers and immune system disorders
- Mental health conditions (depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder)
Even if your condition is not on the list, you may still qualify if your functional limitations prevent you from working.
HOW WORK CREDITS AFFECT SSDI ELIGIBILITY
To be eligible for SSDI, you must have a sufficient work history. You earn work credits by paying Social Security taxes on your income.
- Generally, you need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the 10 years before your disability began. Younger workers may need fewer credits.
- In 2025, you earn one credit for every $1,810 in wages, up to a maximum of four credits per year.
Please note: The dollar amount needed to earn a work credit changes annually. We can quickly confirm your work credit status.
HOW MUCH ARE SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS?
The amount you receive depends on the program you qualify for:
- SSDI: Your monthly payment is calculated based on your average lifetime earnings.
- SSI: Payments are based on a maximum federal benefit rate of $914 per month for individuals and $1,371 for couples in 2025, which may be reduced by any other “countable income” you have.
Our team can help you estimate your potential benefit amount and explain how other factors might affect your payments.
OUR PROCESS: HOW WE HANDLE YOUR DISABILITY CLAIM
We guide you through every stage of the Social Security disability process:
- Initial Application: We ensure your application is accurate, complete, and supported by strong medical evidence right from the start.
- Reconsideration: If your claim is denied, we file the first level of appeal, submitting new evidence to strengthen your case.
- Hearing: We prepare you for the hearing, gather testimony from medical experts, and present a compelling legal argument to the Administrative Law Judge.
- Further Appeals: When necessary, we can escalate your case to the Appeals Council or federal court.
HOW TO APPLY FOR BENEFITS IN PLANTATION, FLORIDA
There are several ways to start your application, and our office can manage the entire process for you.
- Apply Online: You can apply on the SSA’s official website.
- Apply by Phone: Call the SSA’s national toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778).
- Apply In-Person: You can schedule an appointment at the local office located at 8501 W Sunrise Blvd, Ste 100, Plantation, FL 33322.
WAS YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY CLAIM DENIED? LET US HANDLE YOUR APPEAL.
Most people who apply for disability benefits are denied at first. Do not give up. You have a limited time, usually 60 days, to file an appeal. If your claim was denied, contact us immediately.
We will:
- Review your denial letter to understand why the SSA denied your claim.
- Identify and gather the missing medical proof or correct technical errors.
- File your appeal for Reconsideration or a hearing on time.
- Build a powerful case to present to the Administrative Law Judge on your behalf.
ABOUT VICTOR MALCA LAW
With over 30 years of experience focused on Social Security Disability and workers’ compensation law, Victor Malca is a trusted advocate for injured and disabled individuals in Florida. We are known for our hands-on client service, our deep understanding of the medical and legal details that win cases, and our unwavering commitment to results.
Take the First Step Toward Securing Your Benefits
Don’t navigate the complex SSA system alone. Let our experience work for you. There is no fee unless we win your case.
Schedule Your Free, No-Obligation Case Evaluation Today
Call: 954-474-0556
Email: info@victormalcalaw.com
Disclaimer: Social Security Administration rules, regulations, and benefit amounts are subject to change. The information on this page is for general purposes and does not constitute legal advice. We ensure your claim is aligned with the latest requirements.
Victor Malca Law – A Trusted Name in Florida
Victor Malca Law has over 30 years of litigation experience, we are the most trusted workers’ compensation lawyers in Florida. Our area of expertise is in representing injured workers on compensation benefit cases and disabled individuals claim social security disability benefits from our office in Plantation to Fort Lauderdale and all of Florida.
Our unwavering advocacy for employee rights and privileges are also recognized by our peers. Book a free consultation today.