ssdi

[Guest guest]

Thank you so much fopr the information. Since I have not worked since I married

my hubby 14 years ago I am not eligible for my social security. You have to work

so many quarters out of the last 5 years to qualify. My hubby is on disability

and he draws too much money for me to get SSI. Also now I am on a campaign to

get Medicaid we are drowning in medical dept, I noT only have CMT but I am

hypertensive, a diabetic on insulin, have arthritis, high tryglicerides,

diverticulosis, a crancky liver and pancreas. My meds are very expensive

although my Neurontin is free from the company that makes it. Where there is a

ray of hope I am gonna try.

We do alright in the food department, we grow most of our food but there is also

a place called mission of hope where we can get meat, groceries, clothing if

needed. the churches in our area sponsor the mission and it comes in handy on

months when I have unexpected medical bills.

Cathleen

[Guest guest]

Cathleen,

When I applied for SSDI I was approved in less than 30 days of my first

application, my effective date was set back 3 months so even though I had to

wait 5 months like everybody I got three extra checks in the first two months

after payments started. It took two years but I now have full Medicare starting

this month.

I get $1346.00 per month but will have to pay $78 FOR MEDICARE.

How I did this was I had letters and medical documentation from all doctors,

friends, employers(my employer never let me see the letter but basically he

wrote that because of my past with him he had been carrying me for two years but

had to stop.)

The reason I found out all this info is that although the decision is not made

at the local office when I went in to check on how things were going the agent

that I was sent to was someone I went to school with and had not seen for 30 yrs

and he let me have more info than I was supposed to get. They normally let you

sweat for another 120 days.

SO FLOOD THEM WITH PAPERWORK (ALL HONEST) AND GOOD LUCK.

[Guest guest]

Oh, and I've been told that I can't do the SSDI application online now since

they have started a file on me already in the office. I guess that's because

I'm already in the works??

[Guest guest]

,

A CMT diagnosis should qualify you for Social Security Disability Benefits and

Medicare. I interviewed several disability Lawyers and decided to do the paper

work myself without paying a hefty lawyer fee. This is a medical decision not a

legal one! The counselors at the Social Security Disability offices are trained

to help you through the application process and will act as your advocates. I

encourage you to to make the call.

My application took several months and my counselor helped me very step of the

way. You still have to do the paperwork yourself and you can not be employed.

Disability sent me to their Neurologist who confirmed my CMT. I was paid back

benefits (a large lump sum) and I now receive a Social Security check every

month and I am insured by Medicare. This has worked out very well for me and I

have medical insurance for life. I pay for a Blue Cross supplemental policy that

keeps my co-pays to a minimum. I can still work and make up to a certain amount

(not sure how much anymore).

My husband has supported me every step of the way and I now have more time and

energy to nurture myself and my home life. Money and medical concerns wreck

havoc on the nervous system and of course relationships. Good luck and if you

need help contact me.

Robin

Napa, California

[Guest guest]

Thanks,

That's what I don't understand, my doctors wrote it in black and white, I

CANNOT WORK. And I have a disability sticker for my car (which I only use in

emergencies because I'm embarrassed if someone doesn't see me in horrific pain

they won't believe I'm disabled, which is pityful on my part.

I can barely get to the grocery carts and when I do, I lean over them to relieve

the pain off my lower back) Have had 2 EMG's within one year of each other and

they can see the difference where it's getting worse.

Yesterday I just got the new package from the SS people of all the copies they

took and now it's off to Tallahassee, FL to do it all over again. This time my

social worker helped me fill it out and put her name on it also. I have also

been to their neurologist in Key West which is 80 miles from my house. I

couldn't work if I wanted to.

I've gotten this far after a year, and am going to stick it out and wait. I

just want a good doctor to operate on my back not a medicaid slock! I'm not

dissing Medicaid doctors but would like

to get one that I know does good work.

For another reason besides CMT, our local hospital, as new and nice as it looks,

almost killed me 4 years ago. They put the wrong drip in me and I was only

supposed to be in there for 2 days and stayed for 2 weeks. I was halllucinating

so badly I was pulling

out the IV's in my arm. Anyway, thank you from the bottom of my heart for

giving me this information. If I didn't have this board and Gretchen, I don't

know what I'd do.

Everyone,

Have a wonderful day and night.

Love to all,

(from the keys.....lots of 's lol)

[Guest guest]

Hi ,

It is NOT your doctor's 'decision' whether you are 'unable to work'.

Instead, it is the decision of the Commissioner of Social Security.

I see this happen all the time - applications are rejected on first

try because a doctor thought he was supposed to say the patient 'is

disabled' or 'cannot work' etc. SSA immediately rejects these

applications.

A doctor is responsible for submitting background medical

information and for completing HIS part of the form (Neurological

Review) that the SSA sends to him.

When a person completes their application, those applications that

are complete must list reasons why the person is unable to work -

meaning symptoms that prevent work etc.

Also, regarding the 'paperwork' issue - if a person files their

application on-line, the paperwork is far less, and the application

is much more organized. All the claimant has to do is print off a

copy of it and sign the forms at the end. By filing this way, all of

the claimants information goes straight into the SSA computer

system, cutting down on SSA paperwork, and also 'lost files'.

We have several staff that do just this for our clients on initial

application.

I also want to reiterate that attorneys are paid at the end of a

case, when benefits are awarded. Attorneys are paid directly by SSA

now, the claimant does not ever need to 'write a personal check' to

pay the attorney. At first, persons do not need an attorney, one can

file on-line or on-paper. However, upon a denial of a

Reconsideration Request, it is advisable to contact an attorney,

since one's application has been rejected twice, there are reasons,

and attorney's who work in this particular field of SS Law, can

easily spot the problems. Sometimes the problems can be corrected

before a ALJ Hearing, by submitting additional information and

asking the Judge for an 'on the record decision'. Otherwise, it is

prudent that before a Hearing, one secures the services of an

attorney who will coach the claimant before the Hearing and will

also attend the Hearing with the claimant.

If anyone need an experienced attorney, contact nosscr.org (800

number on that page), call and ask for attorneys in your area.

~ Gretchen

[Guest guest]

Thanks Gretchen,

I'll do that!

Re: SSDI

> Hi ,

>

> It is NOT your doctor's 'decision' whether you are 'unable to work'.

> Instead, it is the decision of the Commissioner of Social Security.

> I see this happen all the time - applications are rejected on first

> try because a doctor thought he was supposed to say the patient 'is

> disabled' or 'cannot work' etc. SSA immediately rejects these

> applications.

>

> A doctor is responsible for submitting background medical

> information and for completing HIS part of the form (Neurological

> Review) that the SSA sends to him.

>

> When a person completes their application, those applications that

> are complete must list reasons why the person is unable to work -

> meaning symptoms that prevent work etc.

>

> Also, regarding the 'paperwork' issue - if a person files their

> application on-line, the paperwork is far less, and the application

> is much more organized. All the claimant has to do is print off a

> copy of it and sign the forms at the end. By filing this way, all of

> the claimants information goes straight into the SSA computer

> system, cutting down on SSA paperwork, and also 'lost files'.

>

> We have several staff that do just this for our clients on initial

> application.

>

> I also want to reiterate that attorneys are paid at the end of a

> case, when benefits are awarded. Attorneys are paid directly by SSA

> now, the claimant does not ever need to 'write a personal check' to

> pay the attorney. At first, persons do not need an attorney, one can

> file on-line or on-paper. However, upon a denial of a

> Reconsideration Request, it is advisable to contact an attorney,

> since one's application has been rejected twice, there are reasons,

> and attorney's who work in this particular field of SS Law, can

> easily spot the problems. Sometimes the problems can be corrected

> before a ALJ Hearing, by submitting additional information and

> asking the Judge for an 'on the record decision'. Otherwise, it is

> prudent that before a Hearing, one secures the services of an

> attorney who will coach the claimant before the Hearing and will

> also attend the Hearing with the claimant.

>

> If anyone need an experienced attorney, contact nosscr.org (800

> number on that page), call and ask for attorneys in your area.

>

> ~ Gretchen

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

,

Since I know nothing about the SSDI application process I may off-base with this

question. Why off to Tallahassee? I thought SSDI was a federal program, not a

state program. Can't you go to a Social Security office somewhere closer to

your home in the Keys.

Donna in Tampa

[Guest guest]

Donna in Tampa,

From what I understand, first it does go to my county office, then

everything is sent to Tallahassee for the " BIG " decision. Evidentally, my

office doesn't do anything except for sending the papers off. Go figure. Last

time I applied they were the ones to tell me which state neurologist they wanted

me to go for for their files. Oh well...See what happens this time.

in the Keys

[Guest guest]

I have applied once for disability and was turned down. That was before the

diagnosis of CMT. I applied due to the Chronic Lyme and neuropathy and the

complications. Is anyone here on disability and can you give me any advice.

I hired a lawyer about 6 months ago, but he is not the greatest at

getting back to me.

Thanks in advance!

Teri

[Guest guest]

and Teri,

Now is the time to get a lawyer recommended by NOSCCR.org

http://www.nosscr.org/ (800) 431-2804 toll free phone, request a list

of attorneys in your area. These attorneys specialize in SSDI. Also,

an attorney is essential at this time, as you will need to request an

ALJ Hearing and you need an attorney to represent you (you go to the

Hearing too) Before the Hearing, the attorney will review your

previous applications and will be able to discern what material was

lacking and caused you to be turned down. Then the attorney will begin

to build a stronger case for you before the Hearing.

Teri, not sure where you live, an average wait time for a Hearing is

12-14 months now. , in your state the wait time is about 2 years

now.

~ Gretchen

[Guest guest]

Hi Robin,

Was wondering if you could help me. I applied for disability in

Feb. I was not working at the time, I had to give up my job because

of the physical work. I applied because of chronic Lyme and

neuropathy. (no diagnosis of CMT at that time) I was turned down.

I have since had to get a part-time job. I did hire a lawyer to

represent me about 6 months ago, still waiting on his decision.

Anyway, will my working part-time hurt my chances? I did let them

know at the SS office that I picked the part-time job and was told it

was ok. I only work about 12 hours a week, anyway, what do you think?

Thanks!

Teri

[Guest guest]

Teri,

I wonder the same thing myself. I can't work around anyone's schedule,

especially in the mornings, but something part time like typing at home,

whatever...but I never knew if it would hurt my chances also...Then again, I'm

getting weaker and worse. Stress doesn't help either.

[Guest guest]

Losing your life savings (and safety net) is stressful also, particularly if you

are permanently disabled without opportunity for career rehabilitation- with

your future earning's potential limited to disability benefits equivalent to low

or very low income. Particularly with the current deplorable state of protection

and advocacy for severe chronic illness disability populations.

Statistically, unless one has terminal cancer, they likely will be denied the

first go around. Like with all things in life, an informed consumer has improved

success potential.

Highly recommend you access the resource guide I posted earlier to get you

started. Some people do benefit from SSDI attorney assistance

--cg cg_006@...

ldelp84227 <ldelp84227@...> wrote:

It sounds like a very stressful process. I have never tried because I

heard it is so difficult and I was not ready for all that stress. I

can remember when my father had a major stroke and he basically had

to learn to talk and feed himself all over and he was turned down the

first time. I know people do get it eventually some of the time. I

need to save my funds to get a safe place and can't waste my money on

doctors, etc. I have heard you should get a lawyer to help.

> > Hi Everyone,

> > I have applied for my social security and the paper work is

> beginning to

> > arrive. If anyone has been through this process and been

> successful or not will

> > you please e-mail me. I have many questions and need some advice

> since they

> > have already scheduled appointments, for me, with two different

> Drs.

> >

> > Thanks,

> > Sue

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

No I don't have an attorney. I am trying to do it on my own. See all

I have to do is prove to them that I had my disability before 1987 and I have

had it since 1976.

Sue

[Guest guest]

I keep reading all the stuff on disability. My dad has the disease really worse

than I do. Some days he is unable to walk. He is " thinking " of applying for

disability soon. He has had a hard time with this decision- you know the ole'

man providing for the family ego.

Anyway, from what I have read on here- this process takes along time.......am I

right ??? Would you expect about 1 year before you are approved or does it

depend on your situation ??? What would be the quickest way to get on SSDI ???

His P.T. said he needed to be on disability......he also has no health insurance

and is getting to where he needs to be seeing a doctor regulary.

Any info I can pass along to him would be great !

" seasonally depressed " - ha ha (freezing here),

Candace

[Guest guest]

Hi Sue,

I don't know if you said before, but why do you have to prove that you

had your disability before 1987? I hope everything goes well for

you. I did most of the work for my lawyer, so I don't blame you for

doing it on your own. Do you have a good supportive Dr.? A letter

from him would be very helpful in explaining how you are affected and

why your limitations prevent you from working. It's good to make

reference to listings from the social security blue book of disabling

conditions that pertain to your condition. Good luck & God bless!

Holly

[Guest guest]

Candace,

Depending on your Dad's age, work history and severity of CMT, he

may qualify for SSDI, or regular Social Security Benefits (which are

more) if he is over a certain age (meaning " retirement " age)

Go to the website and start reading all the information.

http://www.ssa.gov/ or if it is easier, go in and talk to a

representative at your local Social Security Office.

There is no " fast " way to apply for benefits or to be approved. Each

individual case is different. However, persons who use the on-line

application have their info go right into the Social Security

electronic data base, so no papers get lost or pile up on desks.

Only people who wait for an Administrative Law Decision or Hearing

end up waiting for a time, in some states now up to 24 months. But

this is usually because they have been denied on first application

and denied again on a Reconsideration Request.

A complete application explaining the nature of symptoms and why

these symptoms do not allow the former worker to continue working

any longer is key. Medical records are required to be submitted, and

these too must be thorough. Medical evidence proving the claimant is

no longer able to work is also key.

SSA Reps are notoriously slow in reviewing applications, plus before

a first review, they have to get one's medical records (the claimant

signs a Release of Information) Just this process alone can take 5-6

months.

~ Gretchen

[Guest guest]

Hi /Sue,

, I'm so happy that you finally got approved, it sure helps take

financial burden off of the family.

Sue, I also live near Toledo, OH. I live in sburg. I applied for SSDI in

Oct. 2006 and was approved Dec. 2006, if you would like to talk you can e-mail

me directly. Good luck, I hope you get this approved.

I think, unfortunately too many Drs. don't take time with their patients and

find out how we are really doing and coping with our limitations. Everyone that

has CMT has different needs and this affects all of us a little differently, and

can change on a yearly basis.

Connie

P'burg, OH

[Guest guest]

I really think it depends on the situation. I think one thing they look

at is if you can continue doing the work that you have previously done.

My Dad has CMT and applied for social security about 20 years ago. He

had heard horror stories about getting approved, but his first

application was approved. My dad was a mechanic and it was very

obvious that he was unable to continue in that line of work. He

started wearing AFOs around the time that he was approved for the

social security. I don't know of any day that he has been unable to

walk - even now.

My Mom had a brain tumor that was pressing against her brain so severly

that she walked worse than my Dad ever has, lost her gag reflex,

couldn't read, etc. She had surgery to remove the tumor that went very

well, but then developed bacterial meningitis. She no longer has any

stamina, has headaches and dizzy spells, etc, but for the most part is

able to do small bits at a time with lots of rest. Worst part is the

judgement lapses - she occasionally does some really bizarre things.

She applied in May 2005 and was denied. She appealed twice, then hired

an attorney who was able to get her case before the ALJ. Her social

security was finally approved last month. SSA's reasoning for the

denials was that the tumor was removed and she could still work as a

laundry attendant.

Let me know if you would like any additional information.

Tonya

[Guest guest]

I am trying it is getting hard to.

SUE

[Guest guest]

Sue, you're on the northern part then. My sisters live outside of Cincinnati.

Good luck with her SSDI. It's frustrating as well as stressful. Hang in there.

[Guest guest]

Connie,

That is amazing! How in the world did you get approved in just 2 months?

Donna in Indy.

[Guest guest]

Yes and it is very hard when I have had this disability since I was 12 and now I

am 40. Life is not fair at times.

Sue

[Guest guest]

Donna,

Not quite sure how my approval took only 2 months. I had only worked about 5

months that whole year, because of illness, then in Sept. tried to go back to

work, even tried part-time and could no longer do it, so finally in Oct. I left

and filed for disability. They said since I hadn't worked full-time since May,

they could consider that the beginning of my waiting period and Dec. would be

the first month that I would get disability money.

I talked to both neuro and primary Drs. ahead of time and both did the paperwork

fast and properly!! I did my application in person at my county SS office. I

also took all the documents of tests and diagnosis that I had been saving for

two or three years.

A lady called and asked me some additional questions about 5 weeks after

applying, then I received a phone call about 3 weeks after that, and she asked

two additional questions and said I have some good news, you have been approved

and the first check may come a little sooner than the regular date. The lady

told me my Drs. returned the paperwork the fastest she had ever seen. I had the

first check in my account 5 days later.

That was back in Dec. 2005. I have been told how very lucky I am, and from

everyone elses experience I agree.

I just pray that everyone that is still waiting that they too get approved soon.

I know the burden of having a job and then no longer being able to do it.

Connie

P'burg, OH