Considering a Social Security disability claim? Take a hard look at it before deciding. If you have a choice, you probably don't need to apply. Some things to consider: 1. It will probably not be an easy or short process. It will take about 4 months to get your initial decision and 70% of those are denials. If you must appeal, expect a wait time of an additional 18 months after you file the appeal. So, you may be looking at 2 years or more in many cases. 2. You will need good medical evidence. If you have little or no evidence from a doctor, it isn't likely you will ever be approved. 3. You cannot apply for SSDI while you are working and earning at least $1,170 a month. This work will disqualify you. Many people don't realize they will have to stop working to apply for SSDI. That's why we say, "If you have a choice, you probably don't need to apply." If working is an option, it's the best option. 4. The average SSDI benefit is arou
7 times more women have fibromyalgia than men. We don't know why. What is fibromyalgia? We know the symptoms but we don't know the cause. There is no cure but there may be treatment to help. Can you get Social Security disability benefits for Fibromyalgia? Yes, if it is severe enough to prevent working and you have the right medical evidence, hopefully from a rheumatologist. There is no Social Security listing for Fibromyalgia. What you must do is evaluate the symptoms and how they interfere with the ability to perform work-like activities: sitting, standing, walking, bending, lifting, kneeling, concentrating, staying focused or on task, etc. There are two sets of diagnostic criteria established by the American College of Rheumatology: the first set from 1990 and a revised set from 2010. The 1990 ACR guidelines require that your doctor find at least 11 specific tender points. However, the 2010 guidelines do not require tender points at all, if other cri