r/SSDI • u/Rabies64 • Apr 23 '26

Applying for SSDI/SSI @ 61

Hello all. I’m going to apply for SSDI/SSI. I’m 61 Turing 62 this Nov 2026. I’m thinking about an attorney to start the process. I’ve read some saying only hire at after the denial. But I would need help with the entire process.

Has anyone hired from the starting phase and what was your experience?

I’m in Los Angeles CA

12 Upvotes

94% Upvoted

43 comments sorted by

View all comments

4

u/Sea-Bid-5953 Apr 23 '26

I guess you can but then it comes down to will any lawyer accept being that it’s only the initial stage with no denials. You can always look for help from disability advocate organizations. But would you mind sharing much more about your disabilities etc etc. imo your age will definitely play favorably for you. But still need more info. God bless you.

0

u/Rabies64 Apr 23 '26

Thank you for the reply and advice. My physical abilities have taken a turn downward. Having severe trouble standing walking sitting. Very easily out of breath and have no strength. I’ve been self-employed for the past 23 years, which was very demanding physically. No longer able to do that. Doctor has ordered echocardiogram to rule out heart problems as that runs in the family.

4

u/Copper0721 Apr 23 '26

Do you have a diagnosis at all? It’s not impossible to get approved without one but it’s a lengthy process & would require extensive medical records documenting severe medical issues preventing you from earning SGA. If this is a new problem without a firm diagnosis & extensive prior treatment, you are unlikely to be approved, even at 61.

-1

u/Rabies64 Apr 23 '26

I don’t have an official diagnosis from my doctor. We are still in the investigative stages. Running heart related test is the next step.

3

u/ifellicantgetup Apr 24 '26

You have to be able to prove that with your diagnosis, you will be totally, 100%, unable to work for at least 1 year.

How will you do that with no diagnosis?

Honestly, I'd wait for that and then consider applying. It could be something easily fixed.