Applying for SSDI

[PoindexterOglethorpe]

19. A lot will depend on exactly what your situation is.

Some years ago I worked for an attorney who did Social Security Disability appeals, and I learned a lot.

I think the basic thing that most people don't understand at the outset is to what extent EVERYTHING needs to be documented. Much of my time with her was spend at a local Social Security office photocopying records. Inches thick.

Something else to understand: No, they don't automatically reject everyone's first claim. Most people simply don't get it right the first time around. But, if you go blind (as happened to my brother) you will get approved immediately, first time out.

For what it's worth, if you get denied the first time or two, contacting an appeals attorney, like the one I worked for, is the right thing to do. For one thing, their remuneration is limited, and you basically won't lose anything. For another, they won't take your case unless they feel that it's winnable. I often listened in to her side of phone calls from potential clients, and learned a lot from that side, especially the ones she turned down. She always said that this was her opinion, and they should certainly check with another attorney. But if even two attorneys turn you down, you probably don't have a case.

Good luck to you.