any luck

Re: any luck

Submitted by wldhrt13 on Sun, 2006-12-31 - 00:10

Michael, I bumped up a post for you under the "Adults Living with E" section. I don't know if you will find it helpful. The original poster's username is grgeliz. pam

Re: any luck

Submitted by Anonymous on Sun, 2006-12-31 - 07:24

Good question! Yes, people with seizures can get SSI benefits. Sometimes it works easier than others though. Having as much info as possible ahead of time helps. Get letters from all doctors treating you. Ask them specifically to write about how the epilepsy affects ability to be gainfully employed. If you work with a nurse, ask for her or his help - the more letters the better, or get help from a social worker or resource specialist working with your doctor. They can help navigate the system. People who are denied should have an advocate or legal help to do the appeal. These can often be found in Independent Living Programs or Disability Law programs. Vocational Rehab Departments may also have resources or can direct people to local help.

It's important to be clear of the guidelines and what you are applying for. The Social Security Administration in the US (SSA) has a good online program that gives definitions of and eligiblity of SSI and SSDI and how to go through this process.

www.ssa.gov/disability

Hope this helps!

Epi_help

Epilepsy.com Resource Specialist