I can't afford the eye drops or the surgery to remove the cataracts. Both conditions lead to blindness. I rec'd a disabled bus pass so why can't I receive help from Social Security? I do work 37 hrs/wk.
2007-02-18 10:42:26 · 8 answers · asked by juanitalahr 1 in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Other - Diseases
I know it sounds stupid but if your are working you will not get SSI. You have to be off from work for a length of time before you can qualify. That is probably the reason you did not qualify. Keep trying and maybe you can get it. Good Luck!!!
2007-02-18 14:50:19 · answer #1 · answered by d3midway semi-retired 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First of all, the cataracts are correctible, and unless the glaucoma has been ignored long enough to cause vision damage, then the glaucoma is treatable. SSDI is for people with permanent disabilities that prevent them from working.
Since you have fixable conditions which have not prevented you from working full time, you do not qualify. A bus pass (or parking permit) are not true markers of disability. Most states or municipalities only require a simple form and vague guidelines to qualify.
I would suggest you forget SSDI and look into Medicaid or a similar state-funded insurance for low-income people if you can't afford insurance, then get the cataracts fixed and get treated for the glaucoma, otherwise, you will eventually go blind and have no trouble applying for SSDI (although that will be the least of your worries then!)
2007-02-18 23:42:41 · answer #2 · answered by Firedoc 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Seriously you have to be dying to get SSI. I waited four years and they turned me down with a lawyer! I reapplied at the Social Security Office again about two weeks ago, I will go to their doctor and then a lawyer if they turn me down!I also have the bus pass and Medicaid declared me disabled. About the eye drops call the PPA plan or talk to a Social Worker where you go to the doctor. They will help you get your medication,possibly some free samples and with your surgery. Call a church like Catholic Charities just don"t give up!Good Luck!!
2007-02-18 18:52:38 · answer #3 · answered by single mom 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I agree, forget getting SSI unless you are totally blind from the glaucoma. Not only should you be looking into Medicaid but many drug companies have guidelines to get glaucoma meds for people who can not afford them. You eye doctor should be able to put you in touch with the proper forms to fill out with the manufacturer of your medications.
2007-02-21 18:19:54 · answer #4 · answered by Jewels 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is probably because you work. I believe if you make more than $800 a month it disqualifies you for disability benefits. The disability benefits are for those who are unable to work and support themselves due to a disability. Unfortunately it will probably take for your condition to get worse for them to consider you. Either way it goes find a good attorney.
2007-02-18 18:52:28 · answer #5 · answered by ladyj 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Have you applied and been turned down? My dad's lawyer told him "They turn down almost everyone the first time you file. It isn't right but it's the way the system works." He had to file twice. My friend's dad had to file 4 times!
Don't give up. The system can be completely unfair (and slow) but persistance seems to show them that you are geniunely in need of aid. (it should only take medical diagnoses but don't get me started!)
2007-02-18 18:51:03 · answer #6 · answered by fluffomatic24 3 · 2⤊ 1⤋
Everyone is denied benefits on their first application. Reapply and the call your state representative to help. It worked for my dad.
2007-02-18 18:48:09 · answer #7 · answered by beetle beater 2 · 2⤊ 1⤋
You aren't eligible unless you can't work. You said you are working almost full time...... That did it.
2007-02-18 18:53:21 · answer #8 · answered by professorc 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋