Tony,

I have just been awarded my disability benefits from SSA. Gary is as usual very correct in stating there is no room for error in providing every document that they request in a very timely manner. My personal experience was that they see us as being special cases and will expedite if you show humility and a willingness to comply to their process. You will most likely be interviewed by a local state agency to facilitate a prompt determination. This will likely include a neutral agency or approved medical company comprising of a shrink and medical doctor. I also highly recommend that you notify your county and apply right away for Medicaid assistance. This will cover both meds and treatments. Seriously consider transferring ownership of the truck to your sister if you have to, but your medical expenses for proper care is your lifeline. It seems silly that a 10 year old truck is probably the only thing holding you back from aid, but it will. Besides, while you proceed in treatment it is not real smart to be driving while under the influence of heavy pain meds my friend. I personally surrendered my drivers license for now till I am confident I do not pose a risk to myself or others. The process for application for disability was unusually fast, initial application was started in October of '06 and the award was granted in July '07. As Gary stated the first 6 months of eligibility is not paid and the first check is issued on the seventh month. Medicare starts after 24 months. I consider myself incredible fortunate to have been approved on the first try. It is quite common to have to apply not only a second but a third time as well. I would not seek a lawyer at this point unless you are rejected. The local office listed below covers the 12866 area and they will assist you compassionately and thoroughly. Whatever date they select as to when your disability started is the target date your benefit starts. My local office had stated a date much earlier than I would have but when the award was made a different date was used. The official date was still earlier than the one I had felt was correct, which was the day of surgery. This assistance has helped my family and I when we really needed it and I too am looking forward to returning in Sept for my "trial back to work". Please feel free to email me with any questions you might have
SOCIAL SECURITY
530 FRANKLIN STREET
SCHENECTADY, NY 12305
(518) 382-1001
Toll-Free 1-800-772-1213