Looking for tips from anyone who has successfully applied for SSDI / disability benefits 💊

Question

Ariel · Answer

Give them EVERYTHING: I worked for a firm for almost 10 years helping clients apply for disability benefits! The most common issue I bumped into after submitting their applications, most people just ignore all mail they would receive from SSA or Disability Determination Services (DDS), who is actually responsible for reviewing your case and making the determinations. You will receive questionnaires asking about activities of daily living that need to be completed. They will call you to discuss your case. They will request your medical records themselves but they will tell you if they are having trouble getting them. So be as responsive as possible! And when you complete your questionnaires from DDS, answer them as if you are having a bad day. For example, they may ask someone with physical disabilities “how long can you stand?” And maybe on a good day you can stand for as long as 2 hours without needing a break! And on a bad day it may be a short as 10minutes. So always answer if you are having a bad day if that makes sense. Happy to discuss further if you have anymore specific questions. :)

Maliea Croy · Answer

How to Get On: This site has so many helpful resources.

I will add from my own experience having been on it once before and as a therapist who has helped many apply—it’s important to know what you’re getting into. It is lifesaving to have a check come when you can’t work, but it also chains you to a broken system and that can feel frustrating, humiliating, and very stressful. That being said, if you decide it’s your only or best option, then apply more than once! Many people are rejected the first time and it’s not your fault if you are, You just need good medical evidence from a doctor who clearly explains not just what your disability is, but why you can no longer work. Best of luck!!