Originally Posted by kane

I just played this game a little while back with my mom. All is not lost yet. I was told by a few different doctors to be prepared to be denied that in almost all cases they deny your claim the first time you file it no matter what. That is part of the "scam" of it. There are a lot of people who simply won't continue to fight them after that first denial.

Here are a few ideas. Sadly, as others have pointed out, had you started this process right when things happened it may have helped, but you still might be okay. First, you will need to go to your doctors and collect information from them that says you were disabled and unable to work and for what period of time this took place. Get copies of your medical records. Second, once you have all of this information contact a social security/disability lawyer. They will give you a free consultation. Go in and talk to them and find out what they have to say. If they feel you have a legit case, you can try to move forward on your own. Chances are their fee might be too high to justify having them do it for you because they normally deal with people who are going to be on it for life, not just looking for a 1 year payout. Now you refile your claim. This time you include a nice, stern letter explaining why you should have never been denied and why you should be approved. Tell them about the doctors claims and include those letters from the doctors. Tell them you met with a lawyer who agreed that your case is clearly one that qualifies and then tell them what you expectations are. Explain that you can have all your medical records sent to them as needed and give them the names and contact info of the doctor's offices so they can do that.

You may still get denied. If that happens your only other choices are to have your doctor file on your behalf or hire a lawyer.

My mom was denied the first time and after getting info together I filed again and this time she was accepted. They also paid he retroactive to the date of the first filing.

Good luck.