(FLORIDA) - After becoming the primary caregiver for her grandchild, our client relied on Social Security Disability benefits to support their household. Years later, she received a sudden notice: her grandchild was no longer considered disabled, and their benefits would be terminated.
Unsure how to move forward, she turned to Florida Rural Legal Services (FRLS) for help.
FRLS—a non-profit law firm serving low-income individuals in 13 Florida counties and farmworkers statewide—stepped in to appeal the decision and represented her at a hearing. While waiting for a ruling, the client chose to continue receiving benefits, knowing she might have to repay them if the appeal failed.
Victorious Outcome
The team at FRLS worked to appeal the termination decision and represented our client in a hearing to determine whether the child qualified for benefits. Our client requested to continue receiving benefits while waiting for the decision to be made, which means that if she was later denied, she may have to pay back all the money she received during this time. In this case, since the benefits are for a minor child, the repayment would likely come from her own Social Security checks.
After providing sufficient documentation and additional supporting evidence from the child's school, FRLS helped our client gain a favorable decision by reversing the denial and ultimately saved her from repaying over 25 thousand dollars in overpayment.
Help with Public Benefits at FRLS
FRLS supports clients who have had their public benefits applications denied, terminated, or are dealing with overpayment issues. FRLS attorneys are equipped to guide you through the process of securing public benefits, helping you and your family stay on your feet.
If you or someone you know needs help securing their public benefits, contact us at 1-888-582-3410.
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.