Question about filing for disability
 

Thought some of my fellow RSDrs would know the answer to this question. I am filling out the online SSD form and I have absolutely no idea what amount of money I am going to get from my employer. How do you answer this question? It took me forever to figure out how much I've already received! Also, I have disability through work and also AFLAC-do I have to report what I received through private AFLAC insurance and something I got from my employer? From what I've read on this page, calling the actual SSD people will not get the answer. Also, anyone that cam explain the difference between SSI and SSD or are they the same?
Thanks!
Lori Lee

I can't help much on the other questions you have. Someone should be along that can give you answers to the other issues.

As to SSI and SSD, they are different. SSI is for low income disabled people. It's basically government welfare so to speak. A couple can't have more than $940 in income a month. I know this because I tried and hubby makes wayyyyy too much money for me to get it.

SSD is disability. You have to have a certain amount of work credits to qualify in the 10 years prior to applying. I had worked off and on but was short about 8 credits or so. That's means without those credits, I can't get disability. So shoot me for being a mostly stay at home mom all those years! *rolls eyes* Without that, I'm left on my own to pay for everything.

This link answers the question as to how many credits you need in order to get disability. http://ssa-custhelp.ssa.gov/cgi-bin/...i=&p_topview=1

If you have earned 20 credits in the last 10 years then you're eligible for SSD. I was short 8 credits and one year too old. I was 32 when I was injured and got rsd and I had 12 credits. Had I still been 31 or even 30 in 2003, I had the 12 credits in the time period needed and would've been eligible. Talk about unfair! :) Oh well.....life goes on.

I wish you much luck in getting it the first time. There's quite a few people that can give you pointers on what to do so you can up your chances.

Hugs,

Karen

Lori Lee,

Each year the SSA should send you a statement which shows you approximately what your benefit would be. If you have been employed full-time for the last ten years, you'll have the credits you need to collect SSDI.

EJ

Be sure to double check those numbers with your tax records.

4 years ago they gave my husband credit for my income. They listed mine as 0. :eek:

Notify them right away of any errors. Make a phone call and follow it up with a letter.

SSD Answers
 

Hi Lori,

I have also filed for Permanent Disability. SSi is for the extremely poor and SSA is what you will go for. First you have to me complete with you short term disability benefits before you can file a claim for permanent benefits. The wait after you file the first time for permanent disability is 180 day. Once you get a determination then you can begin the fight. I am at about 170 day so I am waiting patiently. My PM Doctor did have to get involved because all of the medical had to come from him. It's important to have a doctor that you are working with be on the same page as yourself.

From what I hear if you do get denied a attorney is necessary to continue. The attorney by law as to do it on on win only basis so if you don't win he gets nothing. Also, as part of the program you are intitled to back pay, let me explain, from the time you temp. disability ran out and the time you file for permanent you are entitled for pack pay for the months you collected nothing for me it's almost 5 1/2 years which amounts to a lot of money.

Well that's all for now. If you have any more questions please ask.

gabbycakes