Filing for SSDI

[Mandelin]

For those on SSDI, what has your experience been before being approved? What gets you approved? I am starting HD today. Last May I filed for SSDI, but was denied and also denied on appeal. I have one more appeal.

Thanks.

[LeesKees_NJ]

Hi Mandelin,

You need the form from your team (I got mine from my social worker) that states you are on dialysis. You are eligible to get SSDI if you are on dialysis - they CANNOT deny you. You just need to call 1 [phone] and get an appt at your local SS Office, sometimes you have to wait in queue on the phone, be prepared. Remember when you go to bring your proper paperwork as proof, they'll require it and you can begin coverage as soon as you'd like. Good Luck!

LeesKees

[Mandelin in reply to LeesKees_NJ]

Thanks LeesKees_NJ. Before they denied my last appeal, I called them to put that I am starting dialysis in a couple weeks and they seemed to rush the final 4-5 steps jus to deny me. I don’t have a social worker. Will they have one at dialysis when I get there later today or do I just need something from my doctor?

[LeesKees_NJ in reply to Mandelin]

Yes ask them at the center you go to. Now that you have officially started dialysis and have the proof they cannot deny you.

[Mandelin in reply to LeesKees_NJ]

Thanks. I will do that.

[LeslieK in reply to Mandelin]

Yes, call your local office. Dialysis is the key word you need to say.

I’m sorry paperwork like this can be so frustrating but that’s the word…. Dialysis. It will work and move your request along.

[KidneyCoach NKF Ambassador in reply to LeesKees_NJ]

I decline your statement that "they CANNOT deny you" as untrue. Uh YES, they CAN. Being on dialysis qualifies you medically BUT you MUST have worked the qualifying quarters in prior 10 years to receive SSDI (money). Some can use a spouse's or parent's work credits to get disability ($$) benefits. MEDICARE ONLY requires current proof of dialysis to qualify. Hope this helps. Blessings

[Mandelin in reply to KidneyCoach]

Thanks Kidney Coach. I am 60 and have worked since 15 so I have my time in.

[LeesKees_NJ in reply to KidneyCoach]

I apologize KidneyCoach, I assumed you would know if you have worked and paid enough into the system to be applying for it in the first place. You can look all that up online. It is definitely not a hand out. So you are right in that respect.

[LeslieK]

I filed the form online. It was a little time consuming. You have to say you have end stage renal failure and are on dialysis. That’s the key. On dialysis. I went thru my health records available on mychart and gave dates of all ultrasounds. Blood work etc. I contacted my local county office and state capital and was approved within days. You’ll get payment 6 months after diagnosis stated by the Dr form. It’s really not hard. Get all your paperwork together and go online. You can also ask for assistance if need help reading, navigating the website or any other issues.

[Mandelin in reply to LeslieK]

Thanks LeslieK. They already have all of my medical records stating I was at end-stage and denied me twice. I just started dialysis yesterday which I informed them a month ago while they were still reviewing my case was going to happen and it had no affect. I wonder if I can now and talk to someone if I can bypass the last appeal and finally get approved.

[mhawk123]

I am sorry for the delay as this system can be alarming slow. I had the Social Worker at the Dialysis Center work for me to get all approved. She spent the time making sure the correct forms were submitted including the physician letter that I am in Stage 5 and had placement of peritoneal cather with proper training. Sometimes there is a lag as they may wait to have your current insurance cover a period of time before all is kicked in. Good luck and less stressful days are ahead....

[Mandelin in reply to mhawk123]

Thanks Mhawk123. I haven’t met me social worker yet but hope to this week.

[Calebzztop]

My HD social worker put in all the forms for me and it went through on first attempt.Also if you have ESRD,on dialysis etc,you are entitled even if you didn't have enough work credits ,you could receive ssi . I would definitely speak with your social worker as soon as possible and explain everything so that they can start as soon as possible. I wish you luck but I'm sure your worker will get things going pretty quickly and you will be entitled from the first date you applied..so you'll get retroactive as well. Take care!

[Mandelin]

Thank you Calebzztop. Hopefully tonight or tomorrow night I will meet her.

[horsie63]

This is something if you aren't working currently?

[Mandelin in reply to horsie63]

I’m not working.

[Mandelin]

Update-just had my kidney transplant Saturday.