http://www.socialsecurity.gov/disabi...le%20sclerosis

I got SSDI on the second try (5 years now, with no questions or contact), and here are some things I believe.

1, SSDI is not your friend. Think they are a slug like system, not helpful, slow, heavy, etc. You need persistence and knowledge on your side.

2. I already have SSD but went into their site and found it overwhelming, NOT user-friendly, hard to maneuver in but found what I wanted finally.


http://www.socialsecurity.gov/disabi...le%20sclerosis

Their Blue Book which states their definition of MS and what they consider disabling. I worked for the State and know of Government Employees's love of rules in making hard decisions so used their own words in describing my problems. I did not get SSDI on first try (While usually not a believer in Conspiracy Theory, I do believe SSDI turns down all 1st requests hoping you will get go quietly away) Used their words in my second attempt when I described my life and MS, NOT sugarcoating reality ,which is my tendency to do, and got SSDI on second try. Had I been rejected , had a lawyer's name ready for 3rd try.

3. Don't forget, children under 18 or 18 in High School also get benefits. No one told me, but I got $$$ enough (back pay) to get braces for both, The $600 a/month now goes into college savings. Kids are expensive

4. Do not be emotional or angry. This can raise hackles and defensiveness. Lawyers and advocates are unemotional and neutral, just stating facts, think this is why they are effective.

5. No one ever told me their is a work SS time factor. There is. Be aware, Work if you have to awhile if you haven't, BEFORE you apply.. Research it!!!

6. Have your medical (Neuro and PCP) doctors on board with you on your efforts.