Lesson 7: Applying for disability
Preparing and Submitting the Application
Once you have your doctors lined up it is time to start getting the actual paperwork together. If you are a US citizen applying for SSA benefits, the forms for your Social Security Disability application are available at your local Social Security office.
- First, check to make sure that you fit the definition of fibromyalgia qualifying for disability. You will find that in this SSA Office Memorandum. If you have doubts about whether you qualify, check with your doctors.
- Make sure that you can get all of the information required for the application. These include basics such as your Social Security number, but a surprising number of other documents. A birth certificate is the first document you'll need.. You may also need copies of your military discharge if you were in the service, savings and checking account information, and any and all of your medical records
- It will take time to get this together, so don't put off either the gathering process or getting started on the application. You may also want to read the SSA Booklet of Disability Benefits to give yourself a good idea of what lies ahead and what the claims people are looking for.
- Although you may want to tackle this on your own, you may be wise to look into a disability attorney now. This can save you months of frustration - and perhaps many appeals and administrative hearings. To find a recommended attorney near you, check with NOSSCR, the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (800) 431-2804, or e-mail: nosscr@worldnet.att.net in the US.
- At this stage of the game, do not believe anything the person you speak with at the SSA (or any other claims representative) might tell you, and above all don't let them discourage you. They may know their jobs - but they are very often not familiar with the law as it applies to your claim. Have faith.
- When you have all your materials completed, turn them in and start hoping.
NOTE: At some point the insurance company may want you to see a doctor to check out further details. They will try to send you to one of their own doctors. Don't go without first checking to see if you can't use your own doctor instead. With SSA, at least, you not only have the right to see your own doctor, but the Social Security office should pay at least part of the fee.
