Young onset and SSDI

Colt, I went through the process 7 years ago or so when I was in my early 40's. The age was never really an issue that I was aware of. The process can be long and seem drawn out, but what isn't when it comes to applying for a government program. I will pass along advice that was given to me and that was to hire legal counsel. I initially tried to do it on my own. I struggled with the paperwork and the stress of it all. The #1 best thing I ever did was hire legal assistance - experts in the field. From the first time I met with them, I was put at ease regarding the process. I was warned that I would be most likely denied benefits and to expect that as a "normal course of business". I was in fact denied, as expected. We appealed, and it took a while, but it was almost no work on my part. My lawyer filed all paperwork, set up my appeal hearing, and was by my side when I met with the judge. I was awarded full benefits retroactive to the date I stopped working. Again, I am not sure I would have been approved without the legal help.

My age did not make it any more difficult of a process. Applying for ssdi means a lot of paperwork, regardless of your age. Half the battle is knowing what to expect and, in my opinion, getting the legal expertise to lower the stress and worry. It is what they do as their job, and they are experts at it.

Good luck to you,
Dave

My wife applied me for soc sec. around the middle of June.  Everything Ive heard is that I would be denied initially and would have to go through the lengthy appeall process.  I was very surprised when after only about four or five weeks I was awarded benefits.  Has anyone else had this quick of response to applying.  Now trying to get my head wrapped around the idea of not going back to work at the age of 41, kinda depressing really.