Submitted by Kristi from Indiana in response to “What Are Your Issues”.
I am looking at a diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis. My hands are greatly affected and I lost my job because of it. I filed a complaint with the EEOC. So far all the medicine i have been given has not helped and I am afraid for my future. I am looking at the possibility of having to apply for disability. I can’t even get through 10 minutes of washing my dishes at home without pain, stiffness and weakness. I am a single mother and am currently living off my tax refund. If there is not disability how will I keep my home or even survive?
It is sad to hear about your situation.I urge you to apply for Social Security disability benefits as soon as possible. It’s important to apply with appropriate medical documentation of your disability. Even if you are approved without an appeal, the process can take several months. If you are first denied and need to appeal, the appeals process can take another 1-3 years. It may be very useful for you to find an attorney or a qualified non-attorney claimant’s representative who knows the Social Security disability system. There’s a system whereby their fees will be paid out of retroactive benefits.
Kristi -
The process of obtaining SSDI can be lengthy and cumbersome. One place where you may be able to get some assistance with knowledgeable assistance is the National Association of Social Security Claimants Representatives at http://www.nosscr.org or by calling 800-431-2804.
Hope this helps and good luck.