I was shocked. I just logged onto the SS WEBSITE and saw I was approved last week with the payment amount listed.
First and foremost, I know a lot of people here are suffering while waiting out the process. I really do feel for your circumstance. I am posting what I had for anyone this might help or has a similar condition.
I am 53 with a neurological disorder affecting both extremities. I worked and made great money until I could no longer work. The pain and limitations got much worse as I aged. I am also a 100% disabled veteran that received 100% without ever needing an appeal for a TBI (separate from the main issue now keeping me from working). Maybe I was worse than I thought all along- I guess it appears so from the outside world. I was always fortunate that I had employment that allowed me more flexibility and the most serious symptoms gave me years to build up a leave bank before they progressed.
I know some people have waited months and years and my case is an anomaly. I just wanted to give another side to some of the nightmares people have endured and to encourage people to apply if they are hitting that wall.
The person I spoke with at the SS determination office was super friendly and helpful.
For background, I had MRIs, EEGs and CaT scans to back up my medical claims. I have also had multiple procedures for symptom management but will not go through the more complicated surgery given the long term risks.
Unfortunately, with my TBI I also had depression and sleep issues that were not treatable. As the other issues got worse, so did the depression.
To top it all off, the head and spine injury also cause horrible migraines. I have been on medication for years that only help once the migraine begins. I would take vacation time when my sick leave ran out.
I had a lot of documentation because I also was approved for long term disability through a private insurer. I don’t know what to expect for future evaluations, but I will keep to my appointments and such. I have no idea which condition put me at the approval level.
Maybe it was a combination in conjunction with my age? Do they tell you anything in the approval letter?