How bad does someone need to be... - Disabilities Message Board

journey4me · 06-17-2006, 10:53 PM

I have so many health problems and I would like to apply for Social Security Disability. I have MS, degenerative arthritis in my back and ankle--plus adult diabetes. When I go to my neurologist and tell him what I am experiencing, he will only say that these symtoms are part of my disease. I asked for my records and he never writes anything that I tell him except that I have memory loss. My arthritis is really painful. I have had several injections in my back in the past couple of years and they barely help with the pain. My diabetes is hard to deal with also. My feet burn. Does anyone know if I have a chance of qualifying for diasbility. I have worked non stop for 35 years and I need an income.

Kissa · 06-18-2006, 04:16 AM

No one can really say one way or another how successful you may or may not be. The process can be quick but more often than not it seems to take a year, sometimes longer, before getting approval.

The best thing you can do is talk to an attorney who specializes in SS cases only. You didn't indicate if you were still working or not. To qualify you can not be employed and must be expected to continue to be unemployed due to your disability for at least one year.

gardenandcats · 06-18-2006, 06:51 AM

Usually anyone with MS will qualify along with your other health problems it sounds like you should. The only way to know is apply.And often its common to be turned down the first time if you are reapply and you usally will get it the 2nd time.

Mz Migraine · 06-19-2006, 01:14 PM

Quote:

Usually anyone with MS will qualify

This is true

Quote:

To qualify you can not be employed and must be expected to continue to be unemployed due to your disability for at least one year.

This is also true.

However, depending on which state you reside in, it can take up to four (4) years from the time you initially file for SS benefits until you day you receive your first check/win your case due the current backlog.
So, if you advise which state you live in, I am quite sure a few posters who live in your state will advise you how long the process took them.

I live in New Jersey & from beginning to end it was 3 years for me.

However, I was one of the lucky ones. Like you I worked for over 35 years, had savings & was able to "retire". I also collected unemployment. So the waiting game was not a "hardship". I decided to "wait" to collect my pension. Let my interest build up until my retirement age. I am 56 years young.

My disability: Migraines (fully favorable decision 2005)

So, since you are currently working, I would suggest that you either quit or retire, start saving your $$$ and/or start collecting Unemployment if you plan on filing & prepare for the "long haul".

As a previous poster also indicated, talk w/a Social Security Disabiliby attorney. One who deals w/ONLY SSD cases-NOTHING ELSE. The consultation is FREE!

Good luck!

countrykid · 06-19-2006, 05:13 PM

Just wanted to add some 2 cents......
Do you have Short term disability from your work???Long Term Disability????
If so there is where you start...this will insure you have some financial security eventhough it will be less money every week until you have recieved your approval from SS. Because you can not work if you want to apply for SSDI. You can be collecting STD or LTD while you apply. This is what I did in my case. I went out on STD and right away applied for SSDI.
Also get a lawyer that does nothing but SSDI cases. He/she will look over your case and help you get all the documentation you will need to make a strong case.