DISABILITY: FINANCIAL SURVIVAL PLAN
By far, the largest benefit for the average disabled person is from the Social Security Administration. Surviving disability requires that you apply for Social Security disability benefits. Sadly, most applications for benefits are initially denied. You need to appeal immediately and prepare for a personal hearing. As a disability advocate for many years, having handled thousands of disability cases, here is my advice: 1) Make certain your medical records are up to the minute and received by Social Security. This is largely the information they will use to decide if you can get benefits. Submit all records from all doctors, and other medical providers. 2) Beg your doctor for a form called a "Treating Source Statement." On this form, your doctor will enumerate all your physical and mental limitations in function--from lifting to concentrating. This form will work wonders if properly formatted and completed. Letters don't work so well. 3) Know what the Soc