Disability

How I Navigated the Social Security Disability Process

October 19, 2015 • By

Reading Time: 2 Minutes

Last Updated: October 19, 2015

screen shot of the faces and facts of disability page

I’m on Social Security disability insurance (SSDI). Okay I said it, and, I’m also very thankful for it. I might sound somewhat perplexed, because it’s all new to me and isn’t what I had expected to deal with in life. Yet, I am realistic and understand that “things happen” to all people.

You hear about the horrifying, multi-year process involved when applying for SSDI benefits. These stories are in the media and everywhere, but I didn’t have to pay close attention, because I never expected I’d need SSDI.

I’ve always strategically planned for the unexpected. I’m a former corporate vice president of operations and international business leader of more than 30 years’ experience. My husband and I, together, had a significant income, owned a home in a country club, guard-gated community in Southern California, and were extensive travelers, etc. Then, the season changed – unexpectedly.

In 2012, I started to show medical symptoms from an old auto accident that had caused a brain injury. I had difficulty walking, memory loss, etc. My neurosurgeon explained what was occurring, and that major brain surgery was required for me to continue living. My first brain surgery was performed in July 2012; my second brain surgery in September 2012; and between 2012 and 2014, I underwent five brain/skull surgeries. My husband became my full-time caregiver, and our financial safety net was all compromised due to my health.

With that said, it was time to apply for SSDI. Friends recommended that I hire an attorney, but I went directly to www.ssa.gov and read the disability application requirements, and felt strongly that I could do it on my own via the website. I wasn’t in the best mental state to tackle an extensive application (I was in between brain shunt implant surgeries), but, was determined to apply for SSDI to help exercise my brain. When I got to the site, I found the SSA disability determination website amazingly user-friendly! I was able to, independently, apply online with the easy step-by-step instructions.  When my mind needed to rest, I was able to save my information and, the next day, continue from where I left off.  I did everything online — not once having to step foot in a field office to complete my application; and I received my disability benefits in four months!

What a decision to make! I always said that if I could work through the disability determination process successfully on my own, I’d publicly share my story to assist others.  I continue to fulfill that promise every day, and as it turns out, I’m not an anomaly.  The risk of disability is larger than we think: A 20-year-old worker has a 1-in-4 chance of needing disability benefits before reaching full retirement age!  So, after 30 years in the workforce and contributing to the Federal Insurance Compensation Act (FICA), I sure am glad my disability insurance was there for me in my time of need.

Honestly, I get tired of hearing the negative stories about SSDI. It’s time for everyone to hear a good truthful story about the Social Security disability determination process and how it works in favor of claimants and truly serves the public.

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About the Author

Jarita (J.D.) Davis, Social Security Disability Insurance Beneficiary and published author and blogger

Jarita (J.D.) Davis, Social Security Disability Insurance Beneficiary and published author and blogger

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Comments

  1. Kathi H.

    This settles it – I’m visiting Croatia for my next vacation, thank you! Croatia Holidays

    https://www.croatialuxuryrent.com/villa/villa-deluxe-istra-croatia

  2. mike k.

    Hello, thank you for your post. I hope you are doing well now, best of luck.

    Regards, Mike

  3. Ray

    Checked out your web page, and I should not pass judgment. If your efforts help people, good for you and those you help. My experiences have been less then positive and perhaps I am envious. Currently My benefits are suspended and although approved to be reenstated, it will take another 3 months. I say another as I have been without benefits for the last 3 month. So envious and bitter make for a negative poster. Sorry

    • A.C.

      Hi, Ray. We are sorry to hear about your experience. You can submit feedback by visiting our Contact Social Security page. Once there, select the “E-mail Us” link. This will take you to the “Email A Question to our Support Team” form, where you can complete and submit a compliment, complaint, or suggestion. We hope this is resolved soon.

  4. Ray

    sounds to me like you didn’t need SSDI, and only applied for it out of entitlement. What a shock that an ex-ceo, should get something they don’t need, and have to receive it, because they feel they deserve it. It was supposed to be a safety net for the down trodden. You don’t sound down trodden

  5. marsha p.

    I need help with my SSI There have been so many \mistakes made I do not know how or where to get the mistakes fixed Can someone advise me ?

  6. Charlotte W.

    I also have had nothing but positive dealings with SSDI beginning with my application in 2001. In 1981 at the age of 26 I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. After receiving my masters degree in Secondary Guidance Counseling in 1977, I had worked in several other positions until finally in 1980 was hired as a middle school guidance counselor. I loved my job working with 7th and 8th grade students, so when I got that M.S.diagnosis my wonderful husband and I decided to live our lives to the fullest as long as I was able. I therefore was able to enjoy 20 years working with my many kids until a major M.S.exacerbation in 2001 led to my retirement at age 46. Following the directions of a a co-worker who had retired on disability several years before, I called the telephone number in the yellow pages under Social Security Disability. The representative I spoke with took my information and all I needed to take a copy of my birth certificate to the local DHS office. It took about a week and I was set to go. After receiving my Medicare card I called the supplement insurance company I wanted and chose the level of coverage I needed. And all this was accomplished without any hassles! If anyone applying for disability today will just follow the steps as outlined by SSDI they should have the same positive experience I have.

  7. Michaela N.

    This really nice to be hear. I read your article I’m really impressed with this. love to see your next article.

    • L.A.

      Hi Michaela. Thanks for your feedback! Your thoughts are important to us and we’re pleased when feedback is positive. We try hard to provide the best possible service to our customers and your satisfaction is our reward!

  8. Sheri A.

    Explore some more good articles on the topic at this site, guys.

  9. Peter

    Carry on, these are Good things which are sharing with us.

  10. Ron B.

    I found it interesting that you said that you are able to apply for your social security benefit directly through the website. My dad told me that he needs help with his social security. I’m going to let him know about going online for information. https://www.sartainlaw.com/social-security

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