Yesterday, I had a very interesting conversation with one of my nursing home residents. She shared that she’s very interested in applying for social security disability benefits. This discussion brought so many things to mind.
In 2014, I initially applied for disability benefits. I was, not so surprisingly, turned down. I reapplied, retaining an attorney. In 2016, I was awarded full disability benefits.
The entire process of applying for benefits was most grueling, as well as deeply insulting. I felt as though I repeatedly needed to submit an overwhelming amount of information to prove that my chronic illnesses were preventing me from being able to work.
Earlier this year, I was informed that I would no longer be receiving disability benefits. By having returned to working, only part-time, I exceeded the monthly Substantial Gainful Activity income that is permitted.
Of course, I still have all of the chronic conditions for which I was previously awarded disability benefits. Now, I no longer receive my monthly disability check. In addition, I now need to pay the full cost of retaining my Medicare insurance.
Yes, I’m deeply grateful that I am well enough to continue to work on a part-time basis. Nevertheless, I deeply miss the security of having my monthly disability paycheck.
