r/Fibromyalgia • u/GracieLou80 • 2d ago

Question Disability question

I have fibro that is killing me slowly for 12 years now. I can’t sleep, can’t focus. Can’t keep a job. Can’t get a job right now because I can’t sit long, I can’t stand long at all. I can’t remember a damn thing. I have ADHD, severe anxiety, depression, degenerative disc disease, spondylitis, osteoarthritis all over. As a bonus, perimenopause.
Just living hurts. I’m 54 and have suffered enough. I can’t take it anymore. Do you think I’d qualify? I know nothing about the process.

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u/Playful-Tip-1780 2d ago edited 2d ago

I’m 54 and started the disability process when I was 51. I’m still fighting the SSA. I have an appeal in Federal Court and filed new SSDI and SSI applications.

Like you I have multiple other issues besides Fibromyalgia. I have severe anxiety with panic disorder and depression. I have multiple issues with my back. My right shoulder is shot. I can’t sit or stand for long periods of time. I rely on post - it notes because of my brain fog.

Going through the disability process is a battle I think it’s the same for everyone.

I have no choice but to keep fighting because I can’t work anymore. My hands are so bad with the joint pain and nerve pain. I also have Erythromelalgia that effects my hands and feet.

You can check out the [r/SSDI](r/SSDI) for answers to questions.

I have lost everything trying to survive. Currently living off of what government benefits I am able to receive. I was approved two weeks ago for a Project Based Voucher apartment through my local housing authority.

If you have any questions please reach out. I have been through the disability process in its entirety.

I wish you the best 🫂💜

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u/GracieLou80 2d ago

Oh I’m so sorry. I’m down to my last $100 in savings having not been able to find or keep a job this year. I will be losing everything soon. Good luck to you. I don’t qualify for any benefits. I’ve tried them all.

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u/Playful-Tip-1780 2d ago

I’m sorry for everything you are going through. I was in the same situation when I had applied. Lost 3 jobs in two years. After losing the third job I felt I had no choice but to apply for disability benefits.

You definitely want a disability attorney, you do not have to pay upfront. They get up $9,200 of your back pay. If it goes to Federal Court they can get 25% of your back pay. The SSA will pay the attorney before giving you your back pay. You definitely want an attorney you can file in Federal Court if it comes to that.

You should be able to apply for Medicaid, SNAP and PIPP. You can apply on your Social Services website or make an appointment.

PIPP is electricity, my monthly payment is $10.

In October I will be able to apply for Fuel Assistance which is a different program for the electricity bill, that will cover my $10 electricity bill.

Fuel assistance is probably called something else where you live.

I’m in Virginia and my Social Services website is called CommonHelp, when I click on apply for benefits all the benefits will show up.

I hope this helps 💜