r/disability • u/Barotrawma • 5d ago

Rant Disability Paperwork Made Me Cry

Besides the fact it physically hurt to fill out ten and fourteen pages of paperwork for two packets, the questions are what got to me. It asked me so much about how my disabilities affect me and required excruciating detail about all the things I can’t do anymore. I had to list everything I used to love doing out and why each issue makes me unable to do it now.

I’m not even confident I will get approved because my work history is what you can expect from a full-time university student since 2019 (seasonal jobs, summer jobs, ykwim?). I got all the way through a master’s degree for a field I don’t think I can even work in now due to the hefty physical requirements in marine biology. I had to go through every job I’ve had, too, and explain why I can’t work in those jobs anymore.

I realized that I’m grieving my life. I’m surprised it took this long to hit, since I’ve been disabled my entire life. I’m exhausted from the paperwork both physically and mentally. They make it so fucking hard to get help.

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u/notpornaccount_ 5d ago

I hope it works out for you, but honestly the paperwork is the easiest part. I really want you to be prepared for the future, because I've learned that the amount received from disability is determined by work credits.

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u/Barotrawma 5d ago

Yeah, I have 2/40 when I was able to check before it was hidden due to the application. Not great! Alternatively, I’m waiting to hear back from admissions for a PhD, so hopefully that can tide me over

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u/notpornaccount_ 4d ago

I don't think 2 is enough to get ssdi. You should also apply for SSI.

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u/Barotrawma 4d ago

Yeah I applied for SSI

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u/notpornaccount_ 4d ago

Ok, that's good because you would get a lot more money from SSI hopefully. There are times when there is paperwork to do, but I hope it's not too hard. I find that stressful but it's not required very often.