Yes, I like to know if someone can help me and provide me with some information. I've applied for ssa and ssi, because I have deep vein thrombosis, and I can't work any longer. One month ago, I went for my Appeals Hearing, and saw a judge. I was wondering if anyone has done this, and I was wondering how long does it take to get a answer back. This seems like this takes so long just to get a answer. I just hope to the Lord I recieve it. I applied 2 and half years ago. If you are approved, how long does it take to recieve benefits. If someone could give me some information and advice, please do so. I would appreciate it. Thanks!

Sandra

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sandra de menezes

Sandra,
I don't think I've ever heard of anyone applying and not hear anything back for 2 1/2 years. From my understanding after you are approved you will not recieve your benefits for 6 months. You are entitled to back pay for up to one full year.

I hope this answered a couple of your questions.

Deirdre

I just heard from my attorney that our appeal had been turned down and my court date was in Sept. 99. I have heard others taking longer. It depends what state your in and over whelmed with cases they are. You need to remember we are in a time of epedemic porportions of people applying for SSDI and SSA. The reason, two big ones HCV & HIV. Then you have all the other dibilatating diseases like yours. Hang in there and check with your attorney to make sure your active and haven't gotten lost in the paper shuffle. Also have you moved? Take care and good luck. Diana

http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/eek.gif The overwhelming SSA: SSI? SSDI? ... decisions, decisions http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/dizzy.gif http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/hammer.gif
What is one to do http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/bang.gif

Keep re-appling every 3-6 months if you don't get either a positive acceptance of benefits or a reply of some sort. Don't give up or take 'no' for an answer! Make sure you always have updated medical proof from your doctors that you are physically challenged and can no longer support yourself/family. Show the SSA that you are destitute (it's either sink or swim with them) and can not pay any of your bills due to your affliction.

As the previous repliers have stated, it all depends on the laws governing your state and SSA office. Does your county have a Physically Challenged office or some kind of advocate for the disabled and elderly? You can try contacting them for some assistance and guidance. If nothing works, or you're not finding any support, purhaps you might some thought to writing your district, county, and state government representatives and see what they can do or suggest for you as well.

Please, for Heavens sake, don't wait 2½ years to apply or re-apply for governmental assistance whether it be SSI, SSDI, a fair hearing, or any other type of SSA department! They'd sooner dust your application under the rug with a declaration that you probably really didn't need the assistance because you didn't appear to forge forward some how. Be aggressively polite, ask your SSA caseworker questions such as how long it will take to recieve a reply letter as to whether or not you'll be receiving benefits, or what is the difference between SSI and SSDI, and like that. I believe the wait is normally 6-8 weeks for some type of a response, but double check with your caseworker to be sure. However, I would try appling for SSDI being that you've been employable for so many years. This department, although not too flexible, is more liberal with the amount of funds you're allowed to have in your bank account ... SSI is very limited with such finances. Research both SSI and SSDI carefully. Blessings and good luck to you.

Sincerely,
Netta http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wave.gif