Recently I had my hearing before a judge. I had applied for SSDI well more than a year ago.

I was denied the first time. The second time involved a lawyer and tons of paper ... from doctors, from me, ... etc.

The hearing was less than a half hour. The judge had found enough evidence to rule favorably for me. The official paperwork will be sent to me.

So, if you're in the process of applying for SSDI ... don't give up.

Niko

I'm happy for you, Niko. Just to show how varied the outcome can be depending on who's handling your claim and where you live (I guess).....I applied in June (6/4/08) and got my approval letter just last week. Not even 2 months! I was in shock!

I'm happy you got a favorable outcome. Nobody should have to wait longer than a year.....IMHO.

congrats niko at this point i no longer care if i get my ssi, cause what ever i get i have to repay my pension minus the 33% binder and binder take out, and theres no way i can make up 33% so i give up on ssi

congrats to you

Thanks so much! Congrats to you too

It is amazing in the differences with the who/where. Amazing.

Niko

Thank you Frank! I'm sorry you gave up on the SSI, but I do understand your reasons. The numbers alone will make your head spin.

Niko

Happy for you, Niko. Your story, and Kelly's, give me hope that I will be approved.

I completed my online application the first week of June, and had my phone interview June 13. I've been in touch with Disability Determination Services, to inform them of my three July Dr. appointments. They told me that after they request and receive those records, they may be able to make a determination.

I'm hopeful, because I worked hard on my application, and three of my doctors wrote letters to DDS, in addition to their medical records depts sending my records.

But, I don't have my head in the sand. I know that most applcations and appeals get denied, and have to go to court.

Glad that your approval finally came through.

~ Faith

Congratulations!
Always glad to hear someone made it through. I applied last year and even went to their docs and phycs but I was denied. But in my denial was a pamphlet saying that If I chose to seek an appointment before a judge, I would be put on a "fast track" because my case has a high probability of being favorable. However; my lawyer had never heard of this.
Here in Michigan you get denied and thats it. Court is next.
My thoughts were: I had two strikes against me:
I was 49 (they like you better over 50)
I was a skilled worker

Well anyway I got a lawyer and have not heard anything yet as to a court date. Lawyer said the average wait here in Michigan is 3 years. Maybe fast track is 2.5 years instead of 3? We'll have to wait and see.....but heh!!, I turned 50!

Faith,

I wish you well with the application and hope that you're accepted on the first round

Niko

Thank you and I wish you well. I was told that I could either get a hearing via the phone route or wait for an actual in-person court date. I chose the court.

That choice involved a lot more paperwork, and the date was finally placed so long ago, I can't remember (okay I have MS but I do know it really was a long time ago!)

Don't give up! I wish you well!

Niko

Congratulations! I know it's a big weight lifted to be approved when you can no longer work.

I had to appeal too. Glad you hung in there.

Take care.