SSDI

I've been trying to get approved for SSDI on my own since January 2010;  even though I wasn't doing the work from August 2009 to January 2010 I can't get work credits for others helping me until Jan 2010...when I had to go from full time working a few hours a week just to pay for health insurance to eventually quitting completely after my spine worsened to where I can't even sit for more than a few minutes due to various problems...

I would tell anyone who is contemplating filing; speak to an attorney first not the SSA and get the help of an attny on your side because it's a long torturous emotionally draining fight.

[babygirlyoyo2002]

I applied for SSDI in 2007 and I was denied the first time, then I was denied for the reconsideration and I was told that I had to see the judge. This was in April of 2009 and at this time I was told that I would get a court date within 16 months! which calculated to November 2010, but then in March of 2010 my lawyer called and stated she had me a court date for March. I went to court and talked to a judge, a vocational specialist and my lawyer the judge and I discussed my medical history and my medications. The vocational specialist stated that I was incapable of returning to any gainful employment.
I left work on short term disability in January 2007, I was approved for long term disability two years after I stopped working.

I went to several doctors through the social security process, a psychologist (because I am Bipolar) an Electrophysiologist (for the rhythm issues) and a regular cardiologist. I provided medical records dating back to 1996 (when I had my first heart attack). Every time I changed medications or treatments I had to let my lawyer know.
My lawyer was a lawyer who was once a cardiac care nurse so she was able to relate to my health and I think that was a big help. I was going to go through one of the big law firms until I found out that no matter who I got they were going to get paid the same amount ( 25% of the back money but no more than $6000) So I researched lawyers and found the nurse and she was able to identify with my therapy and my medication side effects. If anyone have any questions feel free to ask me :)

Yolanda

[Mom2four85]

It's certainly not an easy process is it? I saw one of the big national advocacy firms and I don't feel comfortable knowing they're not lawyers, but others have great success with them.  I've been calling around talking to local attorneys to try and make a decision who to go with.

I have such a complicated case I really think I need a SS attorney.

[Mom2four85]

Btw...any tips on getting approved? I know I should have gotten an RFC or dr's note from the beginning but my primary would not sign it and I'm finding alot of doctors don't want to be involved in SSA stuff.

[babygirlyoyo2002]

On the ************.com website, they have a very active disability forum that alot of people use and share their experiences about the process. That is how I found out how long it was going to take to get my backpay...which is always a good thing.

Yolanda

[babygirlyoyo2002]

************ ******* then go to their disability link :) sorry for the mix up

[Mom2four85]

I can't see the link :( can you put spaces in it so it won't get filtered?

I contacted 2 local attorneys to see which I liked better just waiting on my 2nd appt.  The first one is less than appealing - I've sent my info via fax twice and had to call them to confirm it got there and no one in the office knows where it is so I've had to refax it a 3rd time.  

Makes me wonder how they'll handle my case if they can't even keep track of initial paperwork - I sent my fax confirmation pages to show I had faxed before.

This is such a long grueling process; emotionally I can't handle anymore and I've fought for almost 2 years and haven't gotten past the - you're denied stage.

[mlkinmb]

Try ssdfacts.com, not sure if it's the same one baby was giving you or not, but lots of infomation on that forum, a lot of folks who have and are dealing with the system. I'm in the appeals process at this time with (hopefully) the assistance of an attorneys office, I may have jumped the gun with the one I have, time will tell. Don't be afraid to write to your congressperson and/or your senator, most have links on their websites. I am on the wait program with the SSA, last I know my case was transferred to the VSU.
Wait for everything! AARRGGHH! Take care, Mike

[Mom2four85]

thanks for the info, I think I'm on there =) it really sounds familiar - the site has alot of examples of forms if I remember correctly.

Getting an attorney is a good thing and I wish someone had suggested for me to do that to begin with.  I didn't quite understand about the whole process.  I tried the big firm B & B and all sup, but all sup didn't think I made enough money monthly and wouldn't take my case.

I think waiting is horrible, we're already feeling bad, sick and out of work - another pressure and stress of fighting SSA takes alot.

What or who do I write for the congress/senator - do they deal in SSA or what do you tell them?

good luck, please post how you're doing

Lisa

[mlkinmb]

Yes that site has good info. If you look for your senator/congress online, most have links to help with federal agencies. Look for a link to print out a form to fill and send back to them. All they can do is inquire  about your claim, but it's a good thing to have them do this. Mike

[Mom2four85]

thank you =) I think I'm going to do that.

[mlkinmb]

Sounds good! I myself have been a letter writing fool. I like to think my letters may make a difference, and it's a good outet to vent. Just an example, I told Obama that I felt as though I'd have a better chance of getting assistance if I was a "pregnant illegal mexican resident"! Venting again........Take care! Mike