I add my congratulations with your approval for SSI Disability. After reading several experiences people have had on this site, it can be a frustrating experience.

Luckily I received approval the first time I applied. I used a lawyer so don't know if that had anything to do with it but I do have two autoimmune diseases and my neurologist was very responsive to the governments request. I received the same approval with a 5 to 7 year review which I believe means the government considers you to be permanently disabled.

Also I understand (which may be incorrect) that the amount you receive for disability will be the amount you will be getting from now on, much like when you retire early (at 62) that amount is the established amount you will receive. Everyone should receive a yearly statement from the Social Security administration which shows what your individual record of income and the SSI payment is for your working history. On that statement, it also shows the amount you will receive for disability.

Also another thing I have discovered, after you have been on disability for 2 years, you are automatically enrolled in Medicare if you don't have group insurance coverage (which I don't - I have an individual insurance policy). At 56 years old I don't really want to be on the imperial government's insurance but I don't have much choice.

Just wanted to give you my experience. Good luck.

Southern Bell