Hi -

I know how frustrating it can be to manage an SSDI application on your own. I'm not an expert on disability claims, but I do know that bipolar is a recognized disability so you have a basis for winning your case. However, the decisions are based on medical records primarily. You should be able to show a history of treatment, a psychiatric diagnosis and letters from mental health providers about your condition and the nature of the disability.

Did they tell you what the basis of each rejection was? That's important to get clear before trying again. If the medical documentation was spotty, that could be the problem. You could base a new claim on additional information, but I really don't know what the best strategy in a case like that might be.

One of the best websites I've seen for good SSDI info is called Disability Secrets. They know all the ins and outs of the process and could probably answer your questions. They also offer a free service for evaluating your claim case. Here's their page on bipolar.

Good luck with this.

John