New here-overwhelmed--SSDI question?
 

As I said, I'm new here. Trying to get used to the fact that I have a neurological disorder that, while manageable, will affect me for the rest of my life. One of the things I did was finally admit working wasn't working and filed for SSDI about a year and half ago.

I'll try to make this as succinct as possible. On 10/26/07, after two appeals, waiting for a hearing and then having a hearing, I received a Fully Favorable decision from an ALJ. :) But, because I live in the New England region, all favorable decisions are automatically reviewed by the Decision Review Board. If they don't "complete its action on [your] claim within 90 days" of the ALJ's decision, then the decision becomes final.

I'm hoping someone else has had some experience with this and can help me out. My question is this: when this hits the 90-day mark does it automatically go to payment processing? Who do I contact to make sure it moves along?

I called SSA, who said they can "send a message" to the DRB and someone will get back to me within 30-60 days. I've already waited 90 days since getting a favorable decision, which should have been a relief, but b/c of this extra pieve I've been on pins and needles...and that doesn't (obviously) include the initial wait, the two appeals and the wait for the hearing.

Is there a way to contact the DRB directly?

I've been pretty calm but now I am starting to freak out a little bit, especially with medical bills and stuff piling up.

Anybody?

Try contacting your Congressman. I believe they help with this.

I'm from NE too (GO Pats !!!!!), but I'm still in the appeal stage, so I don't know the answer to this. Do you have a lawyer ? I would think your lawyer would know. If you made it to a favorable decision with no lawyer...kudos to you ! I've heard that is rather impossible to do.

Best of luck ! I hope that you get your money soon !

I do have a lawyer--I found one once I went to appeal. I'll give her a call at the end of this week, once we're days away from the date. I was just hoping someone had some experience with this and could give me a head's up of what to expect now.

Good luck to you, Finz. It's a debilitating and humbling process, that's for sure. Nothing like being "well" until proven "disabled." :(

follow up
 

Did you hear back? How did things end up?

I've never heard of a Deicsion Review Board. It must be a state organization because it is not part of the federal process. Please keep in touch with the board and let us know what happens.
Respectfully,
Trudi