For those on SSI - Questions about getting approved for SSI disability.

[Lil Missy]

I have a long and chronic history of major depression, recurring episodes. It was managed to some extent for the last 14 years with antidepressants that not only improved my moods and obsessive habits, but also allowed me to sleep the night through without the constant board meetings going through my mind at night. (Which I call "musterbating")

I had to quit my meds several months ago because of lack of insurance, and thus I sank like a rock. To complicate things, I was also in a 2 year relationship that was both physically and emotionally abusive, so now I have PTSD to add to the mixture. (That relationship has now been dissolved)

I went back to my Dr, even though I cannot afford that, and he put me on FMLA leave and also advised me to apply for disability. He also gave me samples of the antidepressants I should be taking and said he would keep me supplied for the time being.

My question is this: How hard or easy is it to be approved for SSI for a mental disorder? On the one hand I see online info suggesting they always deny the first application and it takes from 6 months to a year to get through the appeal process, and that only with a lawyer. On the other hand I have info from people who have been approved that say they were getting checks within a month or so.

I have my initial interview next Friday. Those of you that have been approved for SSI, or have loved ones that are on SSI for mental disorder, what was your experience?

How long did it take to get approved?

Did you have to have a lawyer to get approved?

Would it be advisable to start out with a lawyer to make it quicker?

Did you also get approved for Medicaid?

Any tips are appreciated.

[no name no slogan]

1. My dad got SSI for a non-mental illness

He's got severe diabetes and nerve damage, and it took him a year to get approved even with the help of a lawyer. I would suggest you get one as well, as it's almost impossible to get approved without one, I've heard. IIRC most of them only get paid if you get approved and you don't need much $$ down to get started.

I work in human services (when I can work, that is), and you can get Medicaid without being on SSI, but the rules vary state by state. If you are unemployed and don't have any other source of income, you probably qualify for some sort of medical assistance already. You should probably first get a caseworker through your county, if you can, as they can help you get benefits you're entitled to. Most states have some form of medical insurance available, even if you don't qualify for Medicaid. I would check with your state's Human Services department to see what's available.

I would definitely not try to do it alone, though, because your chances are that much more difficult without an advocate. You may even want to check with Legal Aid to see what they can do for you too.


Best of luck. :hug:

[Irishonly]

2. There is no easy answer

I am physically disabled and it took three years and a hearing to receive benefits. I hired a lawyer for the hearing. I was advised the hearing would take about forty minutes. I was out in twenty and the judge apologized for what the system had put me through.

My husband started receiving Social Security benefits this year. He suffers from bipolar, PTSD and severe depressive episodes. Right before Christmas in 2006 his brother committed suicide and he discovered the body. He snapped and can in no way work or be under any stress of any kind.

My husband was approved in 3 1/2 weeks and his case worker was shocked. It had to be one of the shortest approval times on record. We did not have an attorney. One thing that helped was his doctor keeps very detailed medical records and we were told the board did not have any questions.

The board she was referring to is made up of lay people and not doctors. Why the government thinks these people can make a more informed decision than your doctor is beyond me. You certainly don't get rich off of Social Security.

My husband's doctor and I had to fill out forms. They ask the same questions over and over. The person you ask to fill out the form has to be consistent in all answers and under no circumstances try to mention things you do well. The important thing is to have as complete medical records as you can possibly have, We learned by mistakes I made on mine questionnaire. We tried to explain what I could do. If you have problems leaving the house, stress that. If your depression is severe, stress it. One funny thing was I said my husband had never paid bills meaning I have always done it and it had nothing to do with his ability. They took my comment literally and I am the payee for his checks.

You now have to be disabled for two years (I think) or maybe it's the two years from the time you are approved to receive medicare.

The first thing you will apply for is a supplemental income. If you own a decent car, you will be denied. Don't worry about it because you are requesting full benefits.

It depends on your assets if you will receive medicaid or not. My husband's doctor kept telling us we didn't need a lawyer and after what I want through I wanted one. We decided that if he were denied we would get one and didn't need one. If you feel having a lawyer would help your peace of mind, get one. I would also visit the Social Security web page. Believe it or not, they suggest lawyers.

I hope this helps. My husband is an exception to the rule. As I said his case worker was shocked because according to her six months is a short time.

[Lil Missy]

3. Very helpful, thank you