Eighteen ways to make your life (somewhat) easier and (somewhat) better while applying for disability:
💥 Check to see if your state has temporary disability or a cash assistance program or if there are other disability programs you qualify for: Different Forms of Disability
💥 If you cannot afford a doctor, medications, or medical tests, check out: How to Get to the Doctor When You Can’t Get to the Doctor
💥 Many people find it helpful to create an online Social Security account while applying. On this account, they will occasionally post cryptic messages about your application.
💥 It’s a great idea to learn the difference between SSI & SSDI. It will help you feel a lot less confused when you read the rest of this site. Learn the difference here.
💥 If you are able to qualify for a caregiver, that will certainly make life much easier in many ways! It may also help your application to have someone who can assist you with scheduling doctor’s appointments, getting to the doctor, mailing things, or making phone calls. How to Get a Caregiver
💥 For financial survival and other assistance, please check out: How to Survive Financially While Applying.
💥 Also look at this list of Other Programs You Can Apply for While Waiting for Disability. You do NOT have to be approved for disability to apply for most programs.
💥 It’s important to check your mail regularly while you are applying. If you are going out of town, or cannot access your mail regularly, you might look into signing up for informed delivery from your post office.
💥 There are several good online programs that will allow you to send faxes cheaply without a fax machine.
💥 If anyone in your life has ever said, “Is there anything I can do to help?” now is the time to give them a call. A friend or family member can be a great help with your application. Your loved one does not need to have any special training or knowledge. Many people are helped by a friend or family member that will assist with reading this site, filling out forms, making phone calls, collecting medical records, or accompanying you to your Social Security appointment.
💥 If you need transportation, look into free and low-cost paratransit and other transportation programs in your area.
💥 If you are homebound, or have difficulty leaving your house, check out: How to Be Homebound
💥 If you are homeless or at risk for being homeless, and have a diagnosis of serious mental illness, look into How To Get Help from The Amazing SOAR Program.
💥 Now is the perfect time to start getting on waiting lists for affordable housing. Even if your income is $0, you can still apply! Section 8 Guide for the Disabled and Plucky
💥 A disability lawyer or advocate can assist you with your application and make the process less stressful. There is no charge upfront. Learn more about where to find a good lawyer and How a Lawyer Can (and can’t) Help Your Disability Application
💥 If you run into any problems with your application, take a look here: How to Solve Your Social Security Problems
💥 If you are curious how high or low your disability check will be here’s How Much Money Will I Get if I Am Approved for Disability?
💥 If you have questions, and you’re having trouble finding answers, check out: How to Escape the Information Black Hole
💥 If you miss a deadline: What To Do If You Miss a Social Security Deadline
🌺 In some situations, it is possible to get a faster disability decision. Here’s how to Speed Up the Process
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Updated July 2018. Please comment below with stories, ideas, questions or suggestions. Please let us know if any links on this page stop working.Â
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