Uhhhhhhh, in MY state, a doctor employed by Social Security makes the decision as to whether or not a person is approved or denied (or so I was told by the SS counselor who was handling my case).

I have a Master's Degree from a reputable University and worked for 28 years in Public Education with FAVORABLE evaluations, so I "assume" that I am capable of reading and understanding the paperwork required by SS.

I MET the qualifications outlined on the SS website COMPLETELY -- was, alas, only "near 50" when I applied for disability -- yet, I was DENIED the first time!!!

I was a COMPLETE and TOTAL basket case after my denial -- the attorney I hired was a SAINT -- took the reins and got everything taken care of (me, approved) within about THREE MONTHS!! STRESS exacerbates my condition -- if I had NOT gotten an attorney, I would likely be in much worse shape or even dead.

I have only found ONE person in my area who was approved on the FIRST attempt -- and he sent a BOX of medical records to SS.

Perhaps each state is different?