Recieved ltr yesterday, hearing date is 9/3/08. Started application 8/2006.
On ltr it states-Issues I will consider in your case; I will decide if you have enough earnings under Social Security to be insured for Disability Ins. Ben., if you do, I must decide if you became disabled while insured. Also, I may find you disabld for those benefits or SSI only if you have a physical or mental impairment that: prevented you frm doing any substantial gainful work; and has lasted 12 straight mos or can be expected to last for that time or result in death.
also; To decide if you are disabled, I will follow step-by-step process untill I can make a decision-any work you have done since you got sick; severity of ur impairments;and ability to do the kind of work u did in past,age,education,wrk exp. any other wrk that exist in nat. eco.
Also, a voc. exp and med. expert will also testify.
I was on state disability for a yr. What do you all think ltr meant he wants to know if I became disabled while insured?.
I have not looked for an attorney, I will be calling some today.

What you got was a "form letter" Mines said the same thing. They just sick in your info.
SSDI is like insurance (well it is) If you became disabled while you were still insured under social security Insurance, then you can collect SSDI. This means while you were working, or a pd of time afterwards. If you were not disabled while insured you cannot collect SSDI. I hope that was clear
Also, Make sure you find a lawyer who is an social security lawyer.
good luck
lynn