Does anyone work for Social Security; I’m confused?
I have a severe spinal injury that prevents me from working and I’ve been denied disability benefits repeatedly. While on the other hand, I know several people who are NOT disabled, continue to work and have a applied and receive disability benefits; I’m confused, broke and becoming quite desperate.
Yes, you are confused. People who have disabilities and are on SSI or RSDI can continue to work and collect a benefit as long as their income and assets remain below a certain level. And remember, just because someone doesn’t look disabled, doesn’t mean they aren’t. Try not to judge the others you see.
In your case – are you applying for RSDI (based on what you paid in over the years) or SSI (an entitlement program like welfare)? For RSDI you have to have enough work credits to draw out. For SSI you have to be under certain income and asset levels. Read your denial letters to find out what it was that made you ineligible. Maybe your documentation was inadequate.
You can also look in the yellow pages and find a lawyer that specializes in helping people get on disability. They will take a percentage of your back pay, but it could be worth it to you to get on.
You should also call your state dept of rehab services. They can help you get into work that you can do given your disability. Most disabled people can still work in some capacity with adaptations.
Sounds like you need some one-on-one help. Contact us at http://www.socialsecurityadviceonline.com