A client came to Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc. (FRLS) seeking representation before a Social Security Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) after being denied continued disability benefits. FRLS is a non-profit law firm that provides free civil legal aid to qualified individuals, families, and vulnerable communities across 13 Florida counties and to farmworkers statewide.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) claimed the client had experienced medical improvement and moved to stop benefits. The client requested continued benefits while awaiting a hearing, meaning if he lost, he would face a large overpayment. Tragically, the client passed away before the hearing.

FRLS discovered that SSA can attach an overpayment to a deceased claimant’s account, which could affect the estate and future benefits for surviving family members. To protect the client’s widow from potential liability, FRLS researched complex laws and decided to proceed with the case regardless of uncertainty.

Our attorney developed the case and represented it before the ALJ. The judge issued a favorable decision, preventing an overpayment of $28,882 from being charged to the deceased client’s account. This outcome ensured the widow’s future benefits would not be at risk.

For families already facing loss, unexpected financial burdens are the last thing they want to deal with. Legal aid helps protect vulnerable individuals and their loved ones from these hardships. FRLS has been providing free legal services to qualified residents across Florida since 1966. If your benefits are denied or stopped, reach out to us at 1-888-582-3410 or apply online at FRLS.org.

About Florida Rural Legal Services (FRLS):

Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc. (FRLS) is a non-profit law firm that provides free civil legal aid to qualified individuals, families, and vulnerable communities across 13 Florida counties and to farmworkers statewide. Since 1966, FRLS has pursued justice by providing legal services in
housing law, family law, consumer protection, public benefits, elder law, disaster relief, education law, tax advocacy, and more, all at no cost to our clients. FRLS collaborates with community organizations and Pro Bono attorneys to deliver quality advocacy, outreach, and education designed to protect the rights of those in need. For over 50 years, FRLS has been a steadfast advocate for justice. Learn more at www.FRLS.org.