Need advice- SSDI filing

[james'mommy]

I was wondering if any one could give me advice on if I should file for ssi or not. I am bipolar and have severe panic attacks. I basically had to quit my job a year ago when my short term disability ran out. Since then I haven't been able to work. I hate to leave the house, am afraid of people and have frequent panic attacks. Plus my moods aren't stable. Last night my social security statement came and my husband mentioned that maybe we should file for disability benefits. From the website it seems like my problems would qualify me. I know that tons of people are denied. Should I get one of those lawyers who don't get paid unless they collect money for you. Any help you guys can offer would be great. TIA.

 

[Ennazus8810]

You should go ahead and file, but be prepared to be denied at least the first time. I am a social worker in Ohio, and I file applications for SSI/DI on a regular basis. Very few times are they accepted on the first time. Seems they want to make sure that you are serious, and make you go through the appeal process. (You have 6 months to appeal after a denial.) It would help you if you were involved in a community mental health agency of some sort (counseling, CPST, or other supportive service) and medication. These are some of the initial things that they look for. Also, be totally and brutally honest. The more gory the details the better.

Good Luck, and feel free to PM me with any questions.

 

[Tinker'n'Fun]

I filed for SSD due to quite a few problems. I was able to do all the initial paperwork myself and disability helped with any questions. I did not get denied so as far as an attorney for the appeal, that would be up to you. But definetely start the claim yourself.

 

[ericafny]

I don't know how it is in NC, but in NY as long as you can prove you are unable to work and your situation prevents you from working you usually get the assistance. I would plan to bring as much paperwork with you as possible, i.e. reports and letters from doctors. I currently help families get medicaid and SSI for their children with developmental disabilities and I always tell them to bring everything they have - the more info the better.

Good luck! And I hope you do not suffer too much