How do I go about filing for SS Disability?

As of right now, I'm only 20% SC for a back injury, and am fighting for both knees at the moment - and an increase on the back. (I acutally saw the head of the ortho dept at Bay Pines and he told me flat out he considers me disabled because of my knees and he believes no one will give me a job - he even wrote it in my records!). Anyway, does having a rating from the VA help any with getting approved through SS?

I know it's going to be a long drawn out process, and denials at first.. should I do this on my own in the beginning or get an atty first?

Any help with this would be great. Some of you have been up and down this road before - so hopefully someone will have some suggestions for me.

Thanks!
Laurie

START ON YOUR OWN A JUMP THROUGH ALL OF THEIR HOOPS.THEY WILL HAVE SOME.BE PATIENT.

I apply for social security and of course was turned down. I decided not to appeal. I am still working on my VA Claim and I don't have the energy to fight them both at the same time, so I decided to fight the VA claim.

Thanks anyway

When you file for Social Security remember the state almost ALWAYS turns you down the first time. You will have to appeal to an Aministrative Law Judge for a hearing which is the first place you will be treated fair.

The hearing is where everyone gets their Social Security so don't feel bad when you are turned down the first time. It's normal.

Billy

Hi, I am interested in learning how to apply for SS Disability.

Thanks

Chel

No do not get an attorney first. Why give someone who already has a better livelihood than you get one third of your blood money. Need help call me, I'll walk you through it.

Social Security does not nor does VA give any respect to each other. In other words, if either of them state you are disabled, it does notnecessarily mean the other will agree.
Unless of course it is quite noticeable and not questionable what your disability is. However, I have a new ruling which came down last year from SS that will, if used correctly give great weight to both on the same level.