Originally Posted by injuredbutrecoverin

what are the laws regarding discrimination in hiring people with disabilities? specifically if one applies for SSDI and then recovers in 2-3 years, for example, will future employers know about the disability or can they find out somehow if not disclosed by the employee?

If you are approved for SSDI, then you would qualify for the Ticket to Work Program and would actually receive more help and access to opportunities not usually available. You might want to read about the ADA: http://www.ada.gov/ada_intro.htm

Regardless if you qualify for SSDI or not, you might have to disclose pre existing conditions for health insurance coverage. If you do qualify for SSDI, you can often extend Medicare coverage for quite a while. There are also state programs for free or reduced insurance for those that qualify for disability but still work.

how does this affect eligibility for group disability insurance provided by employers?

That would depend on the employer's policy.

what are some of the other things to be careful of with respect to applying for SSDI?

Unless you qualify for SSDI with a Listed Impairment, the process can be lengthy. Think years to potentially be approved, not months. SS expects that you can not only perform your prior job, but any job above the SGA level (about $1100 per month.)

There is a possibility of receiving a closed period award if you get better prior to a hearing with an ALJ. If you believe you and your doc/s think you'll eventually recover OR can adapt to a new job, then you might consider utilizing Voc Rehab Services. If they determine you are unemployable, it Should help prove your SSDI case.