why does it take over 2 yrs to get a hearing on disability? my sister has been trying to get a hearing for 2+ yrs. She had a heart attack last month and had to have 2 stints put in her heart. Will she never get a hearing before she dies? thank you
2007-02-11 12:51:42 · 4 answers · asked by Diane g 1 in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Heart Diseases
since her condition is so serious, it may be worth it to contact a social security attorney, yes they will keep a portion of any back settlement she gets,, but at least she will get some, and get the current payments started,, you dont have to pay them any money upfront,,, yes its a shame its so difficult to get, i hear they make everyone have a hearing,,,, but that should of happened within 90 days of them denying a claim and her requesting a hearing
2007-02-11 12:58:20 · answer #1 · answered by dlin333 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Since I don't know the specifics to your sister's case, it is hard to give a definitive answer, but here are a few suggestions:
1. Contact a Disability Advocate, such as a Social Worker that specializes in this. One is usually located at or near a hospital for people who have life-threatening conditions, low income, and other life challenges. They work for free, and usually do not and cannot seek monetary compensation from you (depending on the state you live in). This is your best step to get your case going, as the Advocate will help determine what is best for you, as well as the hospital, and acts as a mediator. Social Security Admin. needs info and input from other government sources, as well as medical professionals regarding disability hearings.
2. Ask your Doctor or Nurse Practioner for assistance. They will provide some information as to whether they feel your sister would be classified as "disabled". If they think so, they will write out an explanation and diagnosis of your sister's condition, but YOU HAVE TO ASK THEM.
3. Check out S.S. A.'s website @socialsecurity.gov. It lists criteria for determining disability.
4. I know it's been mentioned to hire a lawyer, and I guess if all else fails, this would be the route to go. If any of the first 3 steps doesn't help, honestly, the odds are against your sister.
Lastly, it shouldn't take 2 years for your sister to get a hearing, unless she tried once and was denied. It depends on input from other sources as mentioned previously, so you guys shouldn't do it alone. Social Security needs professional input and won't just take you on your word due to many people scamming them.
Good luck and God Bless to you and your sister. I have a chronic heart condition, and wish you the best of guidance and health. Prayers also help.
2007-02-12 06:58:24 · answer #2 · answered by enbsayshello 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is a waiting period.
You might want to explore using a Lawyer who offers a contingency fee.
Consult the yellow pages for such an advertisement.
2007-02-11 20:58:42 · answer #3 · answered by ATIJRTX 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
lots of folks apply for disability so it does take awhile..there is alot of fraud associated with disability and maybe the wait is to see if someone is sincere with their request...how serious is her condition that she needs disability...just because someone had a heart attack and stents does not mean they are disabled..i know of alot of folks who have had heart attacks and even bypass surgery and after a period of recovery,cardiac rehab and such they were able to return to their profession or something less physical/stressful
2007-02-11 22:43:12 · answer #4 · answered by charmel5496 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋