Recently, my husband brought home information about SSI Disability. I read through the qualifications, and I do qualify, although I know that doesn't mean I'd be approved. I've worked part-time since 2003 to present, except for 2014. Also, I didn't work all year long - just a few months at a time each year.
Some days I feel great and working is no problem. Other days, I can't get out of bed. I am working part-time now at a very low-paying job with no benefits - I'd be below the poverty threshold if I weren't married. I work the job because it offers flexibility and a chance to get out of the house. Apparently, you can work while on SSI Disability too, although I think they cut your payments off or reduce them after a few months.
My question is, is anyone here familiar with the SSI Disability process and if it's possible to qualify for disability for Fibromyalgia? Is there any advice or information you can offer me that may help me out? By the way, I have tests and medical records from specialists dating back from 2006 to present. The problem is that all my tests keep coming up normal. I also have some more records from when I didn't know what was wrong with me dating back from 2002-2006 from my GP. Thank you.
~Tia
Tia,
I do know it is possible to get SSI benefits but you do need a good paper trail explaining how difficult it is to work due to the pain you are in. It is very hard for most people to get SSI benefits and the process is very long. It would be a good idea to speak with your doctor about it. Or you can check your medical records. You can always call a lawyer and get a free consultation as well.
Best of luck
I have FM & was awarded SSDI immediately. (I have several other disorders as well). The fact that you do/can work may work against you. It’s good to use strategy. If they know you can work, they’ll make you work. Some key points are that you can’t predict Fibro Flares, and that’s unacceptable at any job not to say when you’ll be back. Two, you can’t drive on the painkillers you need. Three, work is stressful, and stress exacerbates your condition, and last - Fibro Fog. Are you neurologically in the same place as the day you were hired? If you would like to try for SSDI, I wish you the best of luck!
Hi, Tia. Your post came back up to the top with SEC’s and Melissa’s replies… How’re you doing? We haven’t seen you on boards in awhile.
Hugs,
Laurie
Hey Tia that is a very good question. I was thinking about applying myself but I did hear you need to have more then one condition along with fibro. I have had a lot of different blood work done but all have come up normal. My issues are more of the fatigue dizziness and those horrible fogs. I quit my job because I couldn't deal with deal with the flare ups and wake up every morning wanting to get another job but don't know how would I ever be able to make it. I would really like to know how things worked out for you. Hope all is well. Keep us posted
I just applied for Ssdi I was diagnosed in 2009 and have been on multiple medications which at this point are not working for me. My doctor took me off of work last month and has been taking me off medications and trying other therapies which also interfere with being able to work. I do have other conditions along with fibromyalgia which will hopefully make getting approval easier and quicker. There were guidelines that were made in I think 2012 for approving fibromyalgia you should search the internet about disability and fibromyalgia that helped me to know if I had a good chance of getting approval and what I need.
Hi Naomi, did you go through a lawyer? I would like to apply for SSDI myself. I have Fibromyalgia, Osteoarthritis - lower spine problems causing Sciatica, balance problems, medications causing drowsiness and I have Hashimotos Thyroiditis - low thyroid... I work now in a huge high school and have to walk across this big school four times each day. I have had some spasms which feel like a weak sensation causing me to feel like my legs might give out. I'm hoping to apply soon for Disability. I have a lot of pain/ achiness and some days I don't know if I will be able to continue working and driving when the medications cause sleepiness (not good for driving or working in a school).
Naomi said:
I just applied for Ssdi I was diagnosed in 2009 and have been on multiple medications which at this point are not working for me. My doctor took me off of work last month and has been taking me off medications and trying other therapies which also interfere with being able to work. I do have other conditions along with fibromyalgia which will hopefully make getting approval easier and quicker. There were guidelines that were made in I think 2012 for approving fibromyalgia you should search the internet about disability and fibromyalgia that helped me to know if I had a good chance of getting approval and what I need.
I haven’t worked long enough to meet the requirements for SSDI but dos apply for SSI. I didn’t know you had to have other diagnoses, which I do Pseudotumor Cerebri & PCOS, prayerfully I can get approved bc my poor hubby is working over 80 hours to try to support us. I wish you all well!
Queenie