NeuroTalk Support Groups

NeuroTalk Support Groups (https://www.neurotalk.org/)

- Social Security Disability (https://www.neurotalk.org/social-security-disability/)

- - applying (https://www.neurotalk.org/social-security-disability/52034-applying.html)

Am I crazy? (ok...dont answer)

Didnt I read somewhere where you can call SS office to apply instead of going in person???????

I really need to get my butt in gear and apply.

TY

Yes you can apply by phone, you can do a lot online too, good luck!

I applied online for my daughter this week, and the next day got a call from Soc sec to set up a phone interview next week. I also printed the releases to send out.
www.ssa.gov
di

Motors Mommy --

I applied online, the beginning of June. I printed off a copy of all my pages. Have a stack about 3" or 4" high.

While I was in the process of applying, I called SSA with a question, and they set up a phone interview. June 13. Phone interviews are easier, if you've already completed application.

I took a lot of time and effort to complete application with a lot of detail. Talked to my doctors, and requested that, in addition to medical records dept. sending notes from medical charts, that they write a letter for me, in support of disability approval. Three doctors wrote letters. Wrote things like I am "totally and permantently disabled. Do not attempt rehabilitation." And, something about me not being able to maintain "substantial and gainful employment". Two doctors wrote short letters. 1 or 2 paragraphs. My psychologist wrote a 2 page letter, chronicalling how my MS has affected my employment over the past 6 1/2 yrs.

Filled out a long form about my daily activities. My husband also filled out smilar form that was sent to him.

Have called Disability Determination Services (DDS) several times to be sure that they have received the information requested from doctors. I found out that they just sent the requests to the medical records departments, not the doctors, so I called doctors offices to let them know the DDS request for information had been made, so that they could send additional letter.

First approval or denial is supposed to take 3-5 months. Talked with DDS on phone today. They told me that a determination may be made next week, as they have all of the requested information, and it is now being looked at by their medical people. They might have to request visit to their doctor, but they do not think that will be likely.

Most applications are denied first time around, but some are approved. I am hopeful that my doctors support, and my employment history (have lost 3 jobs since 2002, due to excessive absences during flares) will help me to be approved.

If I am not approved, I will consider whether to retain an attorney for my first appeal, or to wait until appeal is denied, and my case goes to court.

Best wishes, Motors Mommy.

~ Faith

If you don't mind me asking, how old are you? I applied in June as well and I'm 33. I'm also waiting but I read that you requested from your doctors to send letters. When I mentioned to my doctors that I applied they just said good, don't see why not. Should I request formal letters??/

Thaks,
Patch

Quote:

Originally Posted by FaithS (Post 347087)

Quote:

Originally Posted by patch (Post 349134)

Hi Patch. I'm 46. I've been told that you are more likely to be approved if you are over 50.

I was told by one of my doctors that it is helpful to have a letter written by your doctor, and the other 2 doctors readily agreed to do that too.

I'd suggest that you request it.

Best wishes,
~ Faith

Quote:

Originally Posted by patch (Post 349134)

If you don't mind me asking, how old are you? I applied in June as well and I'm 33.
Patch

Quote:

Originally Posted by FaithS (Post 349142)

Hi Patch. I'm 46. I've been told that you are more likely to be approved if you are over 50.

~ Faith

I'm 34, began the application process when I was 31 (32? I don't quite recall) and was finally approved in July. I think it's true that you're more likely to be approved when you are older, but it's not unlikely to happen when you're younger. But I do wonder if you need to have "stronger" medical evidence the younger you are...