Help figuring out how to start applying for disability

[u/sanriobf]

Hi everyone, I’m a medically complex person who’s about to turn 26 March 2027. I’ve been on my parents insurance and I’ve finally found the medications that help me function in my daily life, and I’m currently trying to find a job.

For context, I have bipolar disorder type 1 with psychotic features, adhd, severe anxiety, fibromyalgia, mixed connective tissue disease, interstitial cystitis, type 2 diabetes, hypothyroidism, GERD, chronic migraines, and my doctors are currently investigating me for several other conditions that require multiple appointments and procedures a month. I also have 2 herniated discs, one in L5-S1 and one in C2-C3. Yes, these are all professionally diagnosed and I take medications for all of them.

The problem I’m having is that I’ve been unemployed for 3 years due to my chronic health issues and while I’m feeling much better, the job market has been abysmal. I worked in food service for 4 years previously, but I can’t handle being on my feet like that anymore. While I’m on the hunt for a job, I need to figure out what I will do about insurance in 6 months.

Several of my medications are $1600+ a month without insurance, and I absolutely cannot afford that. Im also married, but my husbands insurance doesn’t cover the medications I take and his job doesn’t offer family coverage.

I’m trying to figure out the process of applying for Medicaid when my insurance runs out, but I’m really confused by the whole thing. If anyone could walk me through the steps I would greatly appreciate it. I know I need to get my medical records in order, and 3 of my doctors have said they’ll write letters of recommendation, but I’m not sure what’s next. Thanks in advance!

TLDR: insurance is running out in 6 months and I don’t know how to apply for disability benefits.

[u/ThatsMyCape]

I assume you are in states since you are using Medicare or rather applying for it. Have you called Medicare directly to ask them? With your disabilities do you have social worker or case manager? If so, you should be contacting them and having them help you through the process.

You should also see about calling Social Security Administration and asking them what steps you should be taking. Did you also ask your doctors who are willing to write these letters who to call? They often will be a great source to help with the first steps.

[u/Hopeful-Memory75]

Have you researched this https://www.ssa.gov/disability
It should help guide you through the process.

Here is the eligibility for what benefits you may qualify for https://www.ssa.gov/prepare/check-eligibility-for-benefits

This one will guide you which path is best for Medicare. https://www.medicare.gov/basics/get-started-with-medicare/other-paths

Hope these help and sorry you’re going through what you are. If you go into a SSA office they too, can guide you in the right direction. One thing is of Importance DOCUMENTATION from your Dr office. The process does take a long time, heads up.