I've not worked for almost 20 months. I was receiving state DI for a year, but SSDI denied me. I got my neurologist to declare me fit to work so I am trying to find some work I can still do and collect unemployment.

I've always had depression, and recently had a serious suicide attempt. Three doctors have urged me to reapply for SSDI adding my severe depression to the reason (I only listed MS before). I honestly don't know what work I can still do, and the prospect of ending up with an extremely stressful job is daunting to say the least.

My question, can I reapply for SSDI and still collect unemployment? It seems unlikely, but what can I do for income while I wait the year it will take to process my claim? (Hence my other post) I'm already on the verge of losing my house.

I was thinking about you the other day and wondering how you were doing. I'm so sorry to hear about the depression issues and your suicide attempt. I agree with your doctors to try reapplying again. I can't remember the timeline for applying for an appeal when you are denied. You might want to check that out and see if you are still within the time frame. This may speed up the process for you and you have additionally medical information to add to your case.

I'm not sure what you can do in the meantime other than apply for assistance through your state and see if there is a way that the mortgage company will allow you to pay interest or work with you/advise you on what other options are available to you. Your state may be able to provide you with cash assistance and medical care. You can also apply for food stamps. That should help you out some.

Good luck and keep us updated on how you are doing.

To collect UI, one needs to be actively seeking employment.

And to apply for SSDI, one needs to be unable to work?

Do you have a local help-line to contact and ask, about applying for SSDI, while still seeking gainful employment?

California EDD does offer a program to pay my mortgage for up to 12 months. That should be long enough to get through SSDI again. I also contacted a lawyer and he didn't see collecting UI and applying to SSDI in conflict. I'll be sending him my records Monday and schedule an appointment. I'll share any info I get.

hi catch,
i'm sorry for your troubles. that in and of itself is stressful. please hang in there.

you've done the right thing. when i applied for ssdi there was a "snaful" with my records...umph...and i was denied. i then got a disability lawyer (they only collect their fee after you've been approved and the check dispensed) and it took another 18 mos.

my best advice is to get your drs to document, document, document in your chart. when i was about to fill out the application my neuro's office told me to approach it like it was a master's thesis. very detail oriented and to the point. and only facts backed up by dr's records.

my other best advice is to make copies of ALL dr's records. keep your own file and MAKE SURE it gets to ssdi intact and all together. a lawyer should be able to do this correctly. then, maybe it will take less time.