I would like to share a website with tips and some answers to some or maybe even all of your questions regarding applying and appealing Social Security Disability (SSDI) and SSI. I am NOT an expert, but I have obtained benefits and in a fairly speedy amount of time (with the assistance of an attorney).
I am uncertain of why my case was approved whereas others were not, I do not believe that it means that I am "sicker" than anyone else out there. I am unaware of any definitive reason of why me and not someone else....
I DO believe that an attorney can make a huge difference. I also know that having years of medical evidence makes a huge difference. Researching their guidelines for your illness is also important.
Other than that - JC suggested the website listed below to me about midway through my claim and every single thing that this website suggests is helpful.
So far as I can tell, this digest does nothing except provide tips to gain approval for your legitimate SSDI case (if you have one).
We also speak broadly to resources for disability on Living with TN in an article titled "Coping With Crisis". Y'all are welcome to share. See http://www.livingwithtn.org/page/reserved-tab-b
Thank you Draginfli. I'm in the middle of my Appeal. I have an attorney as well. He's in Baltimore, Md. I was decline intially. I hear that is usually the case. But I do want to thank you for sharing your info. I'm going to the site now.
You are welcome! There are even helpful things coming from the digest for me to explore AFTER my approval! Ways that I can possibly qualify for other help etc....
I was contacted by some rep and he was a Gem to talk to. What a nice guy. I hope this really pans out for me. I feel like something has to give. I'm sure you understand. My husband, kids, and I have been through so much already. Finacially, this is the hardest thing we ever could imagine over coming. Thank God! We are surviving, barely. I thank you for reaching out. Wish me luck
Please post any short tips on my page. I really appreciate your help, once again.
Jean
I wish you all the luck in the world. To me, when a rep calls and is generous with their time, attitude and empathy it is a good sign. Not a guarantee, but a good sign.
I had two caseworkers - one for my original app - she was great and then one for the reconsideration (I did not have an official "appeal) - she was horrible, rude, and sort of played games with me until my attorney stopped her. My case was decided in the audit department finally - I do not know if she had already approved me are not. It seems that 100 random cases are pulled each week for internal audit and verification and (of course mine was pulled!). Audit can hold up a case from 3 days to 8 months! Obviously mine was not held up for more than a few weeks.!
I sure hope your situation ends up like mine - if not, appeals are common, so don't give up!
Hugs - Ang
Momof4sons said:
I was contacted by some rep and he was a Gem to talk to. What a nice guy. I hope this really pans out for me. I feel like something has to give. I'm sure you understand. My husband, kids, and I have been through so much already. Finacially, this is the hardest thing we ever could imagine over coming. Thank God! We are surviving, barely. I thank you for reaching out. Wish me luck Please post any short tips on my page. I really appreciate your help, once again. Jean
www.disability.gov is place to go to find out your rights if you are still working. There is great story on it now about age discrimination and woman won!
equal employment opportunity commission is that site and they also can help you if you are still working.
I really urge all to try and work as long as possible. If your doctor is not knowledgeable in your rights than by all means go to these sites. Call them and see what they can do for you.
Once you quit...just is not good for your self esteem to be dependent on others and government.I
eventually did have to quit after my employer allowed me to go down to 3 days with benefits. I just felt like I was going to end up dead if i did not get more rest. Of course i often worked more than the 3 days and during holidays from now till Christmas ..often worked full time.
I know that if i had just been more honest with my Rheum doctor about my pain instead of thinking i should just take it...that i could have worked longer. So i just hope i can save other s from making same mistakes i have in the past.
Communicate with both your employer and Doctors to try and find solution you can work with before leaving your job. Even change positions if necessary. I learned every job in my dept and other depts so i was a valuable employee plus I did enjoy learning. I got bored if i had to do same thing daily..thankfully and not so thankfully my job was busy and hectic always on dead lines...but time flew.
Also speak to bosses and managers about what is wrong with you. About everyone now days knows someone with lupus as well as many of the other auto immune diseases. Do not hide it or act like it is something to be ashamed of...you never chose to get it.
I just hope this can help some one down the way. wish all health and ability to keep working or learn new job...yes they will teach you! have so many options besides not working...i wish i had sites like this...computers were just coming out in the private sector. Now...we speak with people all over the world with our problems etc...world really is becoming one place.