A Beginner's Guide to RA: Social Security

Start the application process as soon as possible. When your RA starts to affect your job in a way that can't be accommodated with equipment, flexible hours, etc., start the process. Many people don't know that you can work while applying and even after being approved - there's a limit to how much money you can make, but it's commonly acknowledged that the amount given by Social Security is not sufficient, so you are not expected to have no income at all.

Get help. Applying for Social Security means entering a bureaucratic jungle where it can feel as if you have to jump through more hoops than there are in a flea circus. Confusion about what information is required can delay your application and inaccurate or incomplete claims may be more likely to be denied. Get representation by a qualified advocate or disability lawyer who knows the system, knows which forms need to be filled out, etc. Be careful when hiring your representative -- you want to be sure your advocate is reputable and there are questions you can ask to help you find a good one (e.g., a reputable disability lawyer will not require payment until your claim has been approved).

See your doctor regularly. Demonstrating that you are committed to managing your condition and doing what you can to ensure that you remain as stable as possible by seeking regular treatment can be an important factor in an SSD claim being approved.

Keep copies of everything. I often joke that to have a chronic illness or disability, you need an advanced degree in case management, but it's really only half a joke. Keep copies of everything - not only will it help you and your advocate in preparing and pursuing your claim and/or a possible appeal, but paperwork has been known to disappear in the bureaucratic jungle. If you have copies of everything, you will be able to minimize delay.

You can get more information on Social Security including fact sheets and downloadable forms on the Social Security website. However, that's only the beginning of the information you need. For tips on how to navigate the bureaucracy, important information about Social Security, tips on finding a qualified advocate or representative and much, much more, check out Disability Secrets. The site also has a blog with entries discussing specific questions - you can read through the archives or if you're looking for anything in particular, there's a search function in the upper left corner.

You can read more of Lene's writing on The Seated View.