When filing for SSI/SSDI, it is very important to list every medical issue you have, even if that is not your primary problem. The Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) will examine your total medical situation. For example, if you just have fibromyalgia, the ALJ may think you can work if properly medicated; however, because you also have bipolar disorder, that makes your situation more complicated. Each medical problem you have is like a piece to a jig saw puzzle. Until the ALJ has all the pieces (medical problems) and puts them together, he is not able to see your picture clearly. Another thing to keep in mind is that Fibromyalgia is a fairly recent medical diagnosis and many ALJ's aren't that familiar with it; however, bipolar disorder is something that many ALJs know more about. I also know that people who are bipolar also have other mental diagnoses such as depression and anxiety which adds to the bigger picture. I'm not assuming this, but you probably are somewhat depressed and anxious due to being in constant pain from Fibromyalgia.

I do hope your hearing went well and that your lawyer briefed you before-hand on what to expect. Having a good lawyer for the disability process is just as important as having a good doctor help you with your medical problems. In this case, the two need to work hand-in-hand to get you approved for SSI/SSDI. If you receive that, not only will you gain some financial support but also qualify for Medicare which will help with the cost of your medical care. Once you get approved, be patient because it does take a couple of months for Social Security to process your back pay. Also, your lawyer fee will be taken out of your back pay and sent directly to your attorney provided you signed a document allowing the Social Security Administration to do that. However, do not be surprised if you receive a bill from your attorney for out-of-pocket expenses such as copies, postage, medical records costs, etc. If you do receive a bill from the attorney, make sure it is itemized and does not include costs for the attorney doing any work on your behalf. The attorney may and can bill you for his paralegal's time and you should have been informed of the hourly cost up front for that.