applied for disability | Arthritis Information

hi everyone,

applied for disability and had my first phone interview, was wondering if anyone else can give me info. on how long and how hard of a fight will i be in for.

I'm just starting the process myself so I know how difficult a decision it was. I can't help with the process but I do hope it goes smoothly for you

Good Luck Marion!

Best wishes for you I filed in Oct of 05 and am at the Administrative Law Judge level. I hired a firm that specializes in SSDI claims to do all of the work and the average amount of time unfortunately is 2 years for an award.

Your Dr's notes, age and your career play a large factor. It is our responsibility to prove that we cannot be gainfully employed by getting our Dr's behind us.

Good luck.

Hi Marion, and "Welcome"!

Just be patient and make sure you keep copies of all the lab work and other tests from your doctors. If you ask, they should give you copies.

Have you spoken to your doctors about going on disability? If they are on your side, you have a much better chance.

Just don't be afraid to tell the interviewer or fill out the questionaires, very honestly. If they ask you to describe your average day (and they will), don't leave out any of the bad stuff. Don't worry about how you think it sounds to them. The more they know about how much pain you have, or how difficult it is to do a certain thing, the better it is for you. I initially downplayed my problems, because that's just the way I am, and it didn't help at all. Let them know everything.

If you get turned down the first time, don't get discouraged. If that happens, I would suggest you get an attorney, preferably one who specializes in Soc. Sec. Disability. They know just what they are looking for and what forms to fill out. Just don't get discouraged. It can take a year or two, or more in some cases.

Good luck,

Nini

thanks everyone for your input, i do have a person doing all the paperwork stuff, and they will get 25 percent of what they can recover for me.they say i will most likely get turned down the first time but they will appeal till we win or can,t appeal anymore. That's great you have help. I was turned down for my initial application and turned down for the reconsideration. Most people that I talk to had to get to the Judge for an award but a few do get awarded the first or second go around.

Hi MARION,

Each individual's case is so different, depending on what condition you have, and the severity of that condition/s. Normally it takes 3-4 months for a decision from SSA....I applied initally without an attorney, and was approved within the timeframe of 3-4 months. I had a physical condition that was/is on SSA's blue book Listings.Keep your chin up, and do alot of praying.

Justine