My Son - Thanks

[Guest guest]

Reba

To start your procedure all you have to do is call the SSA 800 number in

your telephone book. They will take you from there, setting up the

initial appointment after getting the initial information. I do

recommend doing a telephone appointment, rather than going in to the

office itself. The whole thing can be handled over the phone and

through the mail.

One thing you need to remember: In order to qualify for disability

(SSDI or SSI) you must be totally disabled (totally unable to work AT

ALL) and the disability needs to be expected to last for a minimum of

twelve months. Later, after approval, if you are able to work a little

it will be different, but initially you must be totally disabled in

order to qualify.

On the medical form itemize _everything_ that has anything to do with

health. List every contact with medical personnel. List any medical,

rehab, occupational therapist contact; everything. Let these folks know

they will be hearing from SSA.

On the form for daily activities list a typical day but don't be " stiff

upper lip " -- describe a worst day and , include everything. Your son

is obese and has a severe back problem -- does he need help getting off

the toilet? cleaning himself? pulling up his trousers? Document it.

What has to be done for him? Put his socks on? his shoes? Can he join

the family at the dinner table or must he eat alone elsewhere? How well

and how far can he walk? Does he need a cane? or assistance? You want

to give them a complete picture of his day at its worst. But all true,

of course.

Applying for disability is like trying to get through a dense forest

where the trees keep moving, but chin up! Lots of folks make it! I

used to take claims for SSI before I became disabled myself, but I've

been away a while and forgotten a lot -- but some things never change.

Obesity and lower back pain are two of the most derided complaints at

SSA, so be prepared to have to fight. It always seemed to me that

almost all disability claims were initially denied; if that happens ask

for a reconsideration. If THAT is denied as for a meeting with the Law

Judge. Paperwork telling you how to do this will come with the denial.

I don't mean to be negative, but denial is a real possibility.

Hope this helps you. If there is anything further I can do, please

email me.

Nina in Maine

SilverSister@...