RE: Re: Tammy - Hip Hip Hooray - SSI Disability approved

[Guest guest]

Hi Tammy,Here in a nutshell is what I wrote to another member about applying for SSID:I didn't use a lawyer. I asked a lot of questions of those who had it

approved. I had copies of my test results, letters from my doctors, my

health history sheet that I use which includes symptoms, medical

history, list of medications, list of vaccinations, list of doctors,

and list of emergency contacts.

I initially used state disability and worked part time. This seemed

like a good idea at the time, but in hindsight it wasn't. It is better

to apply for full disability with the state (through a doctor's

note/form) and also apply for SSI disability. In California, the state

disability goes for up to one year (it's a set amount of money - once

it's used, the benefits end). Then also apply for SSI disability

through the Social Security office (as soon as you quite working). There apparently is a 6 month

waiting period from the time you apply before the benefits start so the

state disability should cover this period. Also, medical benefits

through SSA start 2 YEARS after your application is approved. It takes

about 6 months for the approval or denial. Thus, you want to apply for Social Security Disability as soon as possible.

To apply for SSD you will need a lot of documents including your SS

card, birth certificate, copies of state disability pay stubs (if any),

copies of test results (especially those test results that make your

case, such as ERCP results or biopsy results), information about any

hospitalizations including dates; dates of visits to the ER; dates of

doctors appointments; lists of medications taken; list of symptoms (I

think). I went into the SSA office to apply. There was a medical

appointment as well, where I also brought all my medications in their

containers; I also brought updated letters from my doctors regarding my

condition.

It helps to create folders for everything to have everything organized

and easier to find. I have a medical folder with evidence of office

visits, hospital stays, ER visits, etc. I have another folder with the

state disabilty stuff. Another folder with the SSD stuff. I also have

long term disability insurance, so I have a folder for that as well. I

guess it has helped that I worked in the legal field so I understand

the concept of having evidence and documentation. It's a lot of work -

something you don't always feel like doing when you're tired. Maybe a

family member can help with this.Good luck to you. Ask questions if you have any.Marie

To: From: atbrc@...Date: Wed, 18 Mar 2009 06:12:14 +0000Subject: Re: Hip Hip Hooray - SSI Disability approved

> I just wanted to let you know that the Social Security Disability was approved!!! It's amazing. I applied on 10/6/2008.

>

> Marie

Congratulations Marie!! I know that is an important accomplishment and a big worry off of your mind!!

I have been out of work now since Jan and so many people have encouraged me to apply for SSD. Do you have any suggestions that you can share about your experience in this process? I am almost three years post tx and was dx in November 08 with rPSC and UC. Between the two, work is so tiring for me, and my last biopsy showed portal fibrosis with focal bridging and bile duct proliferation, (not sure what that is). My concern is now that I am on Urso my labs do not look as bad. I have worked continuous for the past 29 years but now with the rPSC I have no desire to try and work through this again.

Any info you can share will be greatly appreciated.

I am so happy for you!!

Tammy

PSC 01, TX 5-4-06, UC 11-08, rPSC 11-08

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