Disability process ?

[fish-fighting-illini]

 Does anyone have any real experience on going through or knowing someone go through the process of being declared disabled?

 Preferably temporarily disability.

My mother went through the process and I know even though it was a no-brainer situation it was a huge hassle.

 I know a doctor must start the process. I know from my mothers case that SSI plays dumb until a lawyer is involved.

 Yes I know about work and employee short term dis, and long term dis. In this case we are talking about a fresh out of college student w only a short 2 or 3 month of full time employment. She had not been there long enough to have coverage. She was terminated yesterday due missing so much work. This was even though they knew right where she was as she was hospitalized on the floor that she worked.

 She did work part time ( one or more jobs at a time for probably 7-8 years.\ prior)

 Luckily we do have the medical insurance covered but that doesn't pay her other basic needs / bills etc.

 A little early yet but after just shy of 4yrs of illness it is time to start checking into it.

 I can understand maybe not wanting to post so e-mail or pm is fine.

 Thanks in advance

FFI - AKA  Matt Crum

[J Francho]

Your lawyer and her doctors will be your two best resources here.  In the case of my wife, it took about 4 mos. to realize any kind of benefits.  Her case was an injury deal, coupled with mental illness, so that may be unique.  The injury piece didn't come about until she recovered, and we only fought for copays, extra medical costs, and transportation.  The mental part is obviously ongoing, but suffice it to say, her doctors were instrumental in helping to demonstrate a need for help, and what we needed to do to get that help.  And as far as what help she received, it took a while, but she's 1000x a better person, self employed, earning a living, and paying taxes now.  So, start asking questions, and take what you need, never feel guilty about it. Good luck.

[Catt]

I filed a 1 ½ ago & want I've learned is get ready for game playingwe are talking federal government here

[fishfordollars]

I filed mine in 2006 online.

They sent me a letter asking for my doctor records

I gathered them up and hand delivered them

I was approved in 43 days

Never talked to a lawyer or anyone else from any government agency

[Tin]

It is either going be an easy road like Fishfordollars said or bs like Catt said. Either way I would talk to a lawyer and let them know you have a lawyer.

[Catt]

What made my case harder is my neurosurgeon and good friend past way 3 days after taking my case.

Finding a good doctor in rural areas can be a problem  

[SPEEDBEAD.]

I can help with general disability questions as they are worded for Pennsylvania.  I would assume that other states are similar.

There is short/long term disability cash assistance available to individuals that meet certain criteria.  This assistance is recouped by the state once (or if) ther person is approved for SSI/RSDI benefits.  Medical benefits (Medicaid) accompany cash assistance and in my state, the benefits include doctor, hospital, scripts and vision/dental.

I used to be the Disability Advocate liaison between our office and Social Security.

PM if I can be of assistance.

Wayne

[SPEEDBEAD.]

Illinois application process listed here:

http://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=30370

[fish-fighting-illini]

 My family deeply appreciates you support, kindness, advice offers and links etc.

 There is now a pregnancy involved which might have re-triggered the orginal illness. Prior to the pregnancy she had been healthy for almost a full year.

 Unemployment will be the best fit with the least hassle but is probably a long shot. If that doesn't work out then we will possibly attempt to move forward with SSI. ( readers digest version ).

Thanks again

FFI - AKA Matt Crum and family