This is very difficult to admit, but I'm facing homelessness, and I need your help.

[ColesCountyDem]

As some you will recall, I was laid off two years ago when my job was outsourced. Although I did receive unemployment and extended unemployment, those benefits ended. I've desperately and diligently searched for work, but to no avail. Unfortunately, I am in the 'over 50 and over-qualified' niche so many of us in our mid-50's find ourselves.

I've recently been diagnosed with some significant, long-term health issues in addition to those I already have, and that has forced me to cease looking for work and to apply for Social Security disability. I have employed an attorney to assist me, and he is confident that my application will be approved, although it will likely take 8-10 months before that happens.

In the mean time, my total monthly income consists of a Link (SNAP) card, Medicaid and a $125/month cash grant from my township government. I cashed in my only 'savings' this past spring-- my small life insurance policy-- and was using that money to cover monthly expenses. With the death of my son on June 8th, I spent most of the remaining balance for his cremation and inurment. As of Friday, I spent the last $400 cash I had to pay my rent, and I'm now dead broke and looking homelessness squarely in the face.

If you could see your way to help me 'bridge' my finances between now and when my SS disability is approved, I would greatly appreciate it. Even small amounts will add up. I have both a GoFundMe account and a PayPal account. My GoFundme page is here:

http://www.gofundme.com/cip3vw

I can provide you with my PayPal account information, if you will inbox me here.

Thanking you in advance for your generosity, I am,

-- Bob (ColesCountyDem).

[winter is coming]

1. I don't have any cash to spare, but I can give you a rec.

[ColesCountyDem]

2. Thank you!

[grasswire]

3. I wonder where our Wish a Doo person went.

We had a system to help out, but I haven't seen that member lately.

I am so sorry you are in this situation. So sorry.

There are many kind and helpful people on DU who can help out. Here's a kick to help bring your post to the top.

[ColesCountyDem]

4. Thank you!

[JanMichael]

5. my wife knows her

will contact asap- in the meantime, let's keep this kicked

[ColesCountyDem]

7. Thank you!

[JanMichael]

22. Posted on the wishadoo FB page

and kick- let's get your rent asap

[ColesCountyDem]

51. Thank you!

Where is the page? I was completely unaware such a page existed.

[Voice for Peace]

61. wishadoo is on facebook

https://www.facebook.com/wishadoo?fref=ts

[OneGrassRoot]

208. Hi, grasswire...Wishadoo person here :)

I haven't been on DU much at all this last year for personal reasons.

As for OPs like this, since as of DU3 people are able to request help financially directly by creating their own posts, and since there are so many fundraising sites like gofundme available to create fundraisers, there's really no reason for me to do anything.

Wishadoo is currently on hold as I upgrade the site and get the related projects ready to launch. When people need more creative help, beyond money or even including money, I hope DUers will continue to use Wishadoo when it's up and running again. (One of the spin-off projects is a comprehensive resource directory, where listings of existing help and resources will be gathered.)

ColesCountyDem, I haven't read through this entire thread but I have no doubt you've received a wealth of informative suggestions and resource recommendations (hopefully including calling 211). Depending upon where you live, some 211 networks can be VERY helpful, surprisingly so. It can't hurt to try.

This community has saved many a member from dire situations...I have complete faith the same will happen for you.

I wish you all the best and send big hugs of support your way....

[Rozlee]

6. It's not much, but when I was a single mother, I was nearly in your shoes once.

Hope things get better.

[ColesCountyDem]

9. I firmly believe they will, and thank you!

[AnotherDreamWeaver]

8. kick too, and hope the lawyer doen't charge too much. Sorry to hear about your son. nt

[ColesCountyDem]

10. His percentage is fixed by statute, and thank you!

[LibDemAlways]

11. Bob, I sent a donation your way. I hope things turn

around for you very soon.

[ColesCountyDem]

13. Thank you so very much!

[pinto]

12. Hi ColesCountyDem.

Best of luck on your SSDI request.

In re: SSDI - documentation is the key. And, truth be told, paying an attorney out of your limited funds may not be the most efficient use of your limited resources.

If you have the time and resources collect all documentation, any and all, that may relate to your application. Ask all of your medical providers to provide their assessments and records (you'll need to sign legal releases).

Document the day-to-day impact of your disability, personally. Document the personal impacts of your disability - specifically. Leave nothing out.

SSDI reviewers look at it all. I'm unable to assist financially but take care. ~ pinto

[Sienna86]

15. Attorneys are paid by Social Security when application/appeal approved

Kicked and donated. Hang in there.

[ColesCountyDem]

17. Thank you!

[pinto]

27. No. SSA takes the attorney fees out of a recipient's benefit. There's a cap, but that's how it works

[dsc]

79. I think the person meant that the attorney wasn't being paid out of his right now limited funds

[Sienna86]

87. Exactly. Thanks.

Was fifth person to donate.

[pinto]

94. Ah, yeah. Good clarification.

[mackerel]

97. It's 25% of Back Benefits and it's a capped at $6000.00 if there is only one hearing.

If you go to the Appeals Council, USDC or one of the circuits then that changes. However, the claimant is responsible to pay the attorney for the advanced costs directly. Things like medical records, medical evaluations, etc.

[kath]

147. And since the attorney gets 25% of back benefits, the longer it takes for a case to be allowed, the

More the attorney gets. Not really an incentive for him/her to rush it along... Just saying.

not sure why it would take 8-10 months, unless Illinois has a really huge backlog. if your docs are cooperative in sending records in AND letters detailing your diagnosis, prognosis and level of functining, that shouldn't take much time.

Most sites advising SS Disability applicants recommend an attorney at the appeals level, which makes sense. Not so much at the initial level. (Unless of course it's a site run by attorneys...)

just hope the OP doesn't end up regretting that the attorney sucked up several thousand dollars of HIS money, just for sending in medical records requests...

[mackerel]

166. Very few attorneys take the cases at the Appeals Level. It is much harder to prove at that

level, it takes 18 months and the Appeals Level basically allows you to have case remanded back to lower level and retried with the same ALJ that denied you the first time. Btw it can take up to 12 months for original decision.

[Mr.Bill]

173. My wife's disability was approved in a matter of weeks

and there was no attorney involved. Every case is different, though.

[Doremus]

195. That was also the case of a friend of mine.

He filed the paperwork himself and attended the hearing without an atty.

They approved his app on the first try within a few weeks. I was floored.

[ColesCountyDem]

16. Thanks for the info!

I am documenting everything, and my doctors are all very much 'on board'. A friend who is a retired SS administrative-law judge advised me to retain an attorney, as it vastly improves the first-time approval rate.

[pinto]

21. Cool. Sounds like you have some good resources and professional informed advice. Best of luck.

[eggplant]

24. Yes, nearly everyone is rejected in the first go around.

My dad was a Social Security attorney for many years. They are paid out of the proceeds, not up front. They most definitely get things moving along. It sucks that it is necessary, but it really is.

Oh, and we ante'd up a bit. I hope you are able to get through this lean time without too much difficulty.

[mackerel]

98. That is true and as an ALJ I would trust his opinion. Evidence is key.

[kath]

103. Yes, evidence is key. The initial decision is based on MEDICAL (&/or psychological) EVIDENCE

Plus documentation of functioning, and how that fits with SSA's Listing of Impairments, prior work history, etc.
It is NOT based on legal maneuvering, who has the best hired gun,etc. It only gets that way at the ALJ level.

Unless you are too mentally/physically wiped out to get your medical records and letters from doctors sent in and followup that they are received and to keep in good contact with your caseworker and you can't get a friend to help you with this, throwing an attorney into the mix doesn't add anything useful to your case at this point/level.
( sorry for the pitiful run-on sentence -it's late, I hate typing on an Ipad, and I'm heading off to bed.

[mackerel]

106. The thing that helps with an attorney is collecting medical evidence and

also once an attorney sends in their attorney rep form (I think it's the 1605) then SSA has to copy them on all the letters. This way
both will get all the right info. Sometimes SSA "inadvertantly" forgets to send the CE appt papers or the 20 day letter or the hearing notice. Seriously it's best to have an attorney. 90% of all cases are turned down on the first denial.

[kath]

109. many cases are turned down (NOT 90%, by any means) for reasons such as people not understanding that

Their impairment(s) have to render them unable to perform any significant work for a continuous period of 12 months, when they have been compliant with recommended treatment. So many applications are for conditions that are nonsevere, or do not meet the duration requirement, or conditions that are likely to respond to treatment such that they become nonsevere, or at least not sufficiently disabling as to meet SSA criteria. Treatable illnesses/impairments don't meet the listings. The DDSs receive LOTS of such applications, which are *rightfully* denied.

Another very common reason for denial at the initial level is "insufficient evidence". If the applicant and his/her treating doctors don't submit records and other necessary evidence after months have gone by, then the case is appropriately denied. many times the applicant only *then* wakes up to the fact that the evidence really IS required, and they finally get the records sent in or go to the CE on reconsideration or appeal level. At that point, of course, yeah, with the appropriate information NOW in hand to make a thorough evaluation of the person's condition, the initial denial may get reversed. Doesn't mean that anything malicious was done on the part of the Agency in any way at the initial level.

Another reason for a glut of applications for nonsevere conditions is that some states used to ( and may still) require that EVERYONE (or at least every child) applying for Medicaid or some other programs HAD to apply for SSI, even when their impairment was so mild as to clearly have no chance of meeting SSA disability criteria. Lots of "nonsevere" denials in those states at that time.

And to imply that SSA *deliberately* doesn't send the required communication to clients is just wrong.

Bottom line, a lot of cases are denied at the initial level because they should be. Nothing nefarious going on, just SSA rules and the listings being appropriately followed. Might be nice if the bar was lowered such that people didn't have to be quite so disabled in order to get a check, but people at the DDSs have to follow the rules as they exist now (judges can do some hand-waving and make whatever decision they want, without necessarily having a decent grasp of the medical issues involved). A decent system of HEALTHCARE (not insurance) in this country would help a whole hell of a lot.

[SheilaT]

176. Thank you for explaining this.

A lot of people do not understand this at all, and think just because they have some chronic disease they can get SSDI whenever they decide they're tired of working. The being unable to work for a period of time with no reasonable possibility of returning to work ever is crucial.

I happen to have an acquaintance who told me recently she's applying for SSDI and has hired an attorney to do so, and I told her that she does not meet the criteria -- she can work, she has no significant impairment, she was let go from her last job for cause, the details of which are unimportant. I think she is also somewhat under the impression that the Disability would ultimately be a supplement to Social Security some years down the road, and is in for a serious shock about how little she will really get and what it will lock her into. If I knew her social security number I'd be highly tempted to write a letter to SSA, but I sincerely doubt she'll get approved in the first place. She certainly should not be.

I have another acquaintance who has Rheumatoid Arthritis, and she frequently says she should just go on disability. I keep on telling her it's not going to happen, because she is able to keep her job, and she's earning considerably more than whatever her disability amount would be. I'm not sure she ever completely believes me.

And one other bit of trivia for all those interested in this topic: If you go blind you will pretty much get approved on the first go around. I know, because my brother went legally blind at the age of 49 and his disability claim was approved very quickly. And in his case there was not the normal two year delay before he could be on Medicare, which is the normal situation for all who get SSDI and are under 65. Just be aware. Essentially, you need to be able to survive a couple of years on your own before things will get somewhat better.

[kath]

93. 2nd, 3rd, and 4th this. documentation is absolutely key.

You have to get all pertinent medical records, and have your doctors as well as yourself document and describe in as much detail as possible how your conditions affect your daily functioning. Your ability to FUNCTION is the most important factor in detremining your eligibility, and your functioning has to have been or expected to be significantly impaired for a period of TWELVE MONTHS.

Since the key is providing thorough documentation, mostly from your docs, an attorney really plays NO significant role in the process at the level of the initial application, and will suck up 25% of the several months worth of back benefits that you will receive at the time of approval, if you are approved. YOU are the one who will have to bird-dog your docs in terms of getting all the necessary documentation submitted. No legal expertise necessary. plus you say your docs are supportive of your application.

Worked in the system for 10 yrs, and if my spouse or I developed a significantly impairing condition, I don't think I would retain an attorney unless my initial application was denied. I respectfully disagree with the OP's ALJ friend - the process at that level is *quite* different from the initial application process (where I worked), so s/he is not likely to really know what s/he is talking about.

The reviewers care about the documentation, they don't really care about who is trying to press them into making the decision, ie an attorney. An attorney is helpful at the appeal level.

oh, and BTW, the bit about "nearly everyone is denied at the initial level" is a pervasive urban myth.


Also, some very serious conditions are "fast-tracked", now known as compassionate allowances or somesuch term. in these situations, documentation of the diagnosis alone can be enough for an allowance, without getting into details of daily functioning.

feel free to PM me.

[pinto]

95. +1

[kath]

101. Pertaining to what I posted above, here is a useful link:

http://www.mitoaction.org/red-tape/increase-ssdi-application-approval-chances

[Borchkins]

161. Do NOT do it without a lawyer who knows what s/he's doing.

(Says a lawyer who doesn't know what she's doing, but whose law partner does!!!)
B

[JI7]

14. i'm sorry for this

i'm sorry for your loss of your son and having to deal with money problems at the same time.

i will keep a watch on this and try to donate sometime this month if i have something left after paying off some bills this month.

[ColesCountyDem]

19. Thank you!

[karenmamo]

100. The sum is growing for you.

I sent a small amount to you.
Believing.

[calimary]

174. Welcome to DU, karenmamo!

Glad you're here! This is one of the loveliest things about DU. The compassion here. People really band together - and in many cases, it's to help someone they've NEVER MET, and only know online from boards like this one. DU will buoy you up. And thank YOU, TOO, for helping. This is one First Class community. Absolutely First Class. Great that you chose to join us and become part of it!

[freshwest]

18. CCD, please check into what is called a compassionate waiver if you can get one.

Not necessarily part of that program, but I know things have loosened up a great deal on disability since Obama got in. The GOP squalled mightily, but things changed. They now take into account that at certain age with health issues, a person will not find employment again. So they let them retire. I know a lot of people who have early retirement by SSA now. It looks as if your case will be easy to prove. Wish I had cash right now. Sorry about your son, too.

[ColesCountyDem]

20. Thank you!

[roguevalley]

23. When I deposit my check tomorrow, I will. Hang in there, honey. You are loved.

[ColesCountyDem]

26. Thank you!

I'll hang in there.

[Lochloosa]

25. Contact Catholic Charities. It's what they do.

[ColesCountyDem]

29. Will do!

My church is also helping, but the needs are many, and resources are limited.

[Suich]

28. Done!

Best of luck to you, Bob!

[ColesCountyDem]

34. Thank you!

[No Vested Interest]

108. Is there a St. Vincent dePaul society in your area?

There can help with delinquent rent, utility bills, etc.
I recommended them to a DUer here about a year ago and they did help him out.
They usually pay a visit to the home.
They do not proselytize; the man helped here was not a person of religion.
if you can not locate one readily, call a local RC church and they should recommend one to you.

[trueblue2007]

30. I would pay using PayPal.

[Liberal_in_LA]

31. done

[ColesCountyDem]

38. Thank you!

[Liberal_in_LA]

65. watched the total jump from 200 to over 1000. wow

[ColesCountyDem]

67. It's absolutely amazing!

I may actually sleep tonight!

[PatrynXX]

32. I was helping out a friend north of the border

takes alot to ask though. Wish I could help. I'm on SSD at the moment. Wish you luck. Someone should put this as a sticky on top

[ColesCountyDem]

40. It's OK, really!

Good thoughts mean a lot, too.

[Omaha Steve]

33. $515 so far in 2 hours

Marta and I are in.

[ColesCountyDem]

41. I'm in shock-- pleasantly so, but still in shock!

Thank you so much!

[another_liberal]

35. Such a World in love with you . . .

You be happy.

[SheilaT]

36. Best of luck on this.

I've made a donation, and I hope you get what you need.

I used to work for an attorney who did Social Security Disability appeals cases, meaning she took those who'd initially been denied, but only the ones she believed form her experience, would succeed on appeal.

I learned a lot from that time with her. And yes, to reiterate how the attorney gets paid, it will be after the SSD is approved, and from the proceeds with some very specific dollar cap.

The only good thing about it possibly taking a few months, is that then you'll get all the arrears in a lump sum, which can be nice, except that you still need money to live on in the meanwhile.

[ColesCountyDem]

42. Thank you!

[trashcanistanista]

37. Done

$605! Good luck!

[ColesCountyDem]

43. Thank you!

[WinstonSmith4740]

39. Wish it could have been more, Bob.

If not for understanding relatives, my husband and I could have easily walked in those shoes after his stroke. The best of luck to you. Don't know how much your rent is but we MAY have it covered this month.
Carla (WinstonSmith4740)

[ColesCountyDem]

44. Thank you so very much! It's scary.

Never in a million years would I have believed this could happen to me.

[magical thyme]

45. from 705 to 815 in the 2 minutes or so

that it took me. Have you checked with local animal shelters to find out if there are any local pet pantries? Some have set up pet pantries where you can get food for your dog and cats.

I'm grateful to finally be in a position where I can spare a few dollars to help somebody else. Been so close myself...

[ColesCountyDem]

47. A friend just now gave me a link to petfoodstamps.com, and I'm going to apply.

Thank you so much!

[JanMichael]

60. do you have pets

Please PM me

[whathehell]

46. Just donated on the Go Fund Me Page

Best of luck, Bob.

[ColesCountyDem]

49. Thank you!

[whathehell]

53. You're welcome..Glad to be in a position to help.

[DesertFlower]

48. K&R and donated to gofundme.

[ColesCountyDem]

50. Thank you!

[AzDar]

52. K & R

And all the best to you...

[ColesCountyDem]

55. Thank you!

[WinstonSmith4740]

54. Whoot, whoot!!

I'm having a great time watching that number grow!! Probably not as much as you though, Bob!
Hope this is helping relieve some of the stress.

[ColesCountyDem]

59. I'm amazed!

I feel as though a thousand-pound weight is being lifted off of my shoulders.

[WinstonSmith4740]

72. Excellent!

That's exactly what we were going for!! Now take a deep breath, and get some sleep tonight.

[DesertFlower]

68. so am i.

i also posted it on facebook.

[ColesCountyDem]

73. Thank you!

[customerserviceguy]

56. Count me in

Like you, I work in a call center (at least I got to work the front counter for the last few months, people are nicer there) and I'm well over fifty myself, so your story touched me on a most personal level.

I was juggling things around today, wondering how I was going to get things paid off, then I read your story, and realized that I really don't have anything to gripe about. As we say in the rural areas, "you're one calamity away from having a country song," I sure don't want you to have any more bad things happen to you.

Let us know how things go with SSD. Be well, my friend.

[ColesCountyDem]

62. Thank you!

[MrMickeysMom]

57. Kick for visibility...

Bob, I wish I had it to give you. I'll send you good vibes and a positive affirmation that "all is well with Bob's world".

[ColesCountyDem]

63. Thank you!

Good vibes and affirmations are much appreciated, too!

[Shrike47]

58. Sent a little. Sorry to hear things are going so badly for you. Let's watch the total grow!

[ColesCountyDem]

64. Thank you!

I'm absolutely amazed!

[NYC_SKP]

66. K/R

Many of us are one paycheck or one medical malady away from a similar situation to yours.

Best wishes!

[ColesCountyDem]

69. Very true, and thank you for the K&R!

[passiveporcupine]

70. Have you looked into SSI until your SSD is approved?

Maybe your state doesn't have it? Or is that what your cash grant is? The problem with SSI is that you have to pay it back once you get the SSD. Once you get your SSD it should be retroactive to the five month required waiting period.

[ColesCountyDem]

71. I'll ask my attorney.

I'm not personally aware of whether or not it's available, but I'll ask him first thing tomorrow. Thanks for the heads up!

[passiveporcupine]

74. Much luck to you...I'm so glad the donations are coming in

I'm in pretty serious straights myself, or I'd chip in, but I can give you my hope and a hug!

I was in your place once and was lucky enough to have family to borrow from, but then it took me years to pay them back. I don't ever want to be in a position like that again. I seriously empathize with your situation, and hope you get approved asap. Am also very grateful that DU has so many generous big-hearted people.

[ColesCountyDem]

75. Hope and hugs help, too!

[passiveporcupine]

77. Here is a web link about SSI

and other assistance programs by state. I'm in Oregon. We have SSI here. I don't know if all states do, but I think they do, and if you qualify, there is no waiting period. Just the fact that you have to pay it back once you get your SSD. Believe me, it's worth it if you can get it, and it sounds to me like you should be able to.

http://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/progdesc/ssi_st_asst/2011/guide.html

Check your phone book for your local senior services office. That's where I went to get on SSI. I could not have waited as long as I had to for SSD without their help.

[ColesCountyDem]

78. Thank you for the link! IL has it, apparently.

I'll check into it a.s.a.p. . Thanks again!

[TBF]

76. K&R nt

[steve2470]

80. k&r nt

[TexasTowelie]

81. K&R.

I wish I could donate but I'm in a similar situation as you. Good luck and good vibes to you.

[AllyCat]

82. Can you PM me for PayPal?

Hope things look up for you for a long time to come

[catchnrelease]

83. A kick

a rec and a little donation. Good luck!!

[ColesCountyDem]

114. Thank you!

Every little bit helps!

[shenmue]

84. Hugs

[ColesCountyDem]

115. Thank you!

[JimDandy]

85. Kick so those who can help financially will see this.

That's literally all I can do except wish you better times, Bob.

[ColesCountyDem]

116. Thank you!

I completely understand. Good thoughts and wishes help, too.

[leftyohiolib]

86. what wonderful people to do this - this is very touching

[ColesCountyDem]

117. I'm amazed!

I'm incredibly humbled at the outpouring of support and kindness.

[bbgrunt]

88. please send paypal info. So sorry about your son and your situation.

[Moral Compass]

89. This could be any of us...

I've contributed... I hope things get better. As a fellow 50+er I've been down the unemployment and now under-employment route.

I wish you well and hope the SS Disability is approved soon.

[ColesCountyDem]

118. Thank you!

Ten years-ago, I could never have imagined that I would find myself in my present circumstances. I hope things get better for you, as well!

[stage left]

90. Hey Bob.

I just pm'd you for pay pal info, as I already have a pay pal account. I can't give much, but you know we Dems gotta stick together. Hope things look brighter for you soon.

Jay

[LovingA2andMI]

91. Donated what I could...

Hope everything gets better soon

[ColesCountyDem]

119. Thank you!

Each and every donation, large or small, is VERY much appreciated!

[Suich]

92. Kick!

[ColesCountyDem]

120. Thank you!

[Ed Suspicious]

96. Kick. Good luck to you.

[ekelly]

99. I've been very close to your situation in the past...

I donated what I can, via your GoFundMe link. I'm over 50 and over-qualified, so I understand what you're going through.

Best of luck to you....be well


Erin

[ColesCountyDem]

121. Thank you!

It's comforting, in a 'misery loves company' way, to see how many other 'over 50 and over-qualified' folks there are. As someone who has paid in to Social Security for 161 consecutive quarters and who had never been unemployed long enough to collect even a single UE check, this period has involved a huge psychological adjustment. When you want to work, have the experience to do the work and have excellent recommendations from previous employers, not being able to find employment can unreasonably cause you to wonder if there's something 'wrong' with you.

[NBachers]

102. A little bit to keep the ball rolling

[ColesCountyDem]

122. Thank you!

[tblue37]

104. At $1600 now. Let's keep this kicked. nt

[ColesCountyDem]

123. Thank you!

[Mojorabbit]

105. Sent a bit your way. Hope it helps. ((HUG)) nt

[ColesCountyDem]

124. Thank you!

[Beaverhausen]

107. Marking to donate tomorrow

I'm lucky to be able to help out a little.

[ColesCountyDem]

125. Thank you!

Every little bit helps.

[steve2470]

110. another kick ! nt

[ColesCountyDem]

127. Thank you!

[Cha]

111. Damn.. I'm so sad to hear this, CCD! I wish I

had money to send. Things are tight right now.. but, maybe in future. I hope your SSI comes in earlier than expected. Probably good you got an attorney helping you with all the Paperwork!

Good Luck, Bob

[ColesCountyDem]

128. Thank you!

My attorney is excellent and came highly recommended from several attorneys I know and whose judgment I respect.

[Cha]

134. Good!

[Enthusiast]

112. Small donation on the way.

[ColesCountyDem]

130. Thank you!

Small donations add up! I was amazed to wake up and see the totals at GoFundMe and PayPal, particularly when considering that the vast majority were modest amounts.

[mnhtnbb]

113. Done!

Good luck.

I am so sorry about the loss of your son.

[ColesCountyDem]

131. Thank you!

The responses to my post about David's death and to this post have left me both humbled and grateful!

[Susieville]

126. every little bit helps

sent a small donation

[ColesCountyDem]

132. Thank you!

[Shenonymous]

129. After get finances set right, one solution

Vote Democrat

[ColesCountyDem]

133. Third-generation 'yellow dog' Democrat here!

Also very 'pro-union'.

[riqster]

135. Too broke to contribute, but here is a kick.

[ColesCountyDem]

136. Thank you! Visibility helps, too.

[riqster]

138. I hope so.

I was homeless for a time, back in the day. I hope you are able to avoid that experience.

[ColesCountyDem]

142. With winter not far off, that was the most frightening thought.

With my health and our climate, the thought of having no roof over my head was absolutely chilling, no pun intended.

[doxydad]

137. DONE! n/t

[ColesCountyDem]

148. Thank you!

[steve2470]

139. kick nt

[ColesCountyDem]

149. Thank you!

[Heidi]

140. Kick, kick, kick!!!

[ColesCountyDem]

151. Thank you!

[coffeenap]

141. Done! (kick)

[ColesCountyDem]

152. Thank you!

[njlib]

143. Just tacked on a bit to your total

Best of luck to you...

[ColesCountyDem]

153. Thank you!

[MaggieD]

144. Done

Hope your luck changes.

[ColesCountyDem]

154. Thank you!

Me, too!

[raouldukelives]

145. Kick!

I'd sure help if I could. I have a disabled friend facing homelessness as well and all my extra limited resources are going that way. Things truly are tough all over.
So glad to see the outpouring of support for you! Hang in there!

[ColesCountyDem]

155. Thank you, and bless you for helping your friend!

[Narkos]

146. I pitched in a bit n/t

[ColesCountyDem]

156. Thank you!

[misterhighwasted]

150. k&r. Sent a bit through gofundme.

Every little thing's gonna be alright.
Blessings to you for health, peace of mind, & contentment.
Much love to you ColesCountyDem and to all who reach out to you through kind spirit.

[ColesCountyDem]

157. Thank you!

I do believe that things will eventually be OK. If I didn't, I would've given up long ago.

[misterhighwasted]

159. That my dear is the human spirit. It is a remarkable thing isn't it!

Kindred spirits we are, here on DU.
You are much loved. Know that.

[kath]

158. Another site w/ info about the SS Disabilty process:

http://www.ssdrc.com/disabilityquestions1-46.html

Excerpts:

your initial disability claim, ie. disability application, usually takes about 90-120 days to process.

What determines how fast an initial, or disability application decision may be made? As this site repeatedly states, the time required for a decision is largely a function of how long it takes a disability examiner to get the claimant's medical records gathered. There is a certain amount of time required for the examiner to actually review the records after they are obtained, very often in combination with information regarding the claimant's work activity. However, for the most part, the single largest delay is...the time it takes to acquire the records.

Submitting medical records yourself

Very often, of course, such delays can be avoided by supplying fairly detailed information when filing for disability. In some cases, individuals who submit their medical records when they file a claim at a Social Security office can avoid months of processing time.

However, claimants who submit their own copies of their records should be sure to include:

A) Recent medical records. Social Security will need records not older than 90 days in order to approve a disability claim.

and

B) Records that go as far back as the time they became disabled. Older records are necessary to document a claimant's onset date which can affect the amount of back pay they are eligible to receive and when their eligibility for medicare may begin.

Statistics do vary in different states. However, on a national average basis, one-third of initial claims, or disability applications, are approved. This means that seventy percent are likewise turned down

See also the section on" situations allowing for faster decisions"

Hope this helps. And if not you, it may help other readers here.

One edit-- hmmm, the blockquote function didn't work.Not sure why... hope it makes sense anyway...

[mackerel]

170. Btw those of you who are filing and submit med records yourself, be sure to

make copies of everything you submit, label and date it. I guarantee you that 9 times out of 10 medical records are "inadvertently" mis-located and never electronically scanned into your file at your district office or at ODAR.

[kath]

172. Why the "inadvertently" always in quotes? So DDS workers deliberately sabotage the processing of

Cases? Nine times out of ten?!?? Sheesh.
Those evil government employees, at it again!

(but giving some of your money to an attorney will keep the evil ones in line somehow???)

Since occasional slip-ups happen in ANY office, having backup copies of your own is a good idea.

[mackerel]

175. They actually write this in their letters and their responses.

Legal fees are often also "inadvertantly" released to the client. It is then the attorneys responsibility to collect from the client who has already used the money to pay back all those they borrowed from. The client relied on SSA's calculations. It inadvertently seems to happen a lot.

(Prolly more info than is necessary)

[eShirl]

160. kick!

[ColesCountyDem]

181. Thank you!

[Granny M]

162. Helped a small bit.

Wish it could have been more.

I hope your SSI comes thru sooner rather than later.

[ColesCountyDem]

182. Thank you!

It's amazing to me how many small donations there have been, and how quickly they've added up.

[TheKentuckian]

163. I wish I could do more but I just lost my job too.

[Liberal_in_LA]

168. sorry to hear that. hope you are employed again soon

[TheKentuckian]

171. Thanks! It gets old having to reboot and rebuild all the time but it is what it is

[ColesCountyDem]

183. Thank you!

I wish you the best of luck in finding another one soon.

[TheKentuckian]

193. Thanks! My best to you and yours.

[Guy Whitey Corngood]

164. Done. nt

[ColesCountyDem]

184. Thank you!

[dbackjon]

165. I did what I could right now

This is a fear of mine as I am in my 50's as well - what happens if I lost my job?

[ColesCountyDem]

185. Thank you! it's scary as all get out-- believe me.

[AZ_lurker]

167. Done!

[AZ_lurker]

169. Done! (yikes)...

I've got to post more. Sorry.

Done via gofund me.

-ralph

[ColesCountyDem]

186. Thank you!

[a2liberal]

197. FYI

There is an edit link, I believe at the bottom of your post, that you can use.

Welcome to DU!

Edit: It's at the bottom, second from the right.

[DonnaM]

177. Done :)

Good vibes going out to you. What work is it that you did?

[ColesCountyDem]

187. Thank you!

At the time I was laid off, I was a supervisor in a call center, although I had previously worked in several areas of the company's operations.

[Omaha Steve]

178. How is the PayPal side of this doing?

[ColesCountyDem]

188. The last time I checked...

I checked it about 2 hours-ago, and it was in the neighborhood of $200. I'm waiting on my bank to post the deposits from PayPal, so that I can verify my bank account and PayPal can initiate the transfer of funds. PayPal says that that normally takes 2-3 business days.

[TBF]

179. I donated what I could

Last night when I kicked the thread. I was really hoping you'd get to the half-way mark in 24 hours and it looks like that may happen

That at least gets us through the holidays. I said "us" because I want you to know you're not alone. Please continue to keep us posted. Any of us could be in your shoes ...

[ColesCountyDem]

189. Thank you. I'm half the way there, when PayPal is added to the GoFundMe account.

I'm absolutely amazed at the generosity DU has shown me, a complete stranger! I will absolutely keep you, my DU family, advised.

[MaggieD]

199. I was poor once

And I've gotten breaks that made me financially secure. Doesn't matter that you're a stranger to me - I am always looking for ways to pay it forward in a meaningful way. I was in hurry this morning but I want to thank YOU for presenting an opportunity. And I believe you when you say you'll do the same if you get things turned around for yourself.

[TBF]

201. I grew up poor as well -

my parents worked in factories. In those days though you could live in a rural area pretty inexpensively and at least the jobs had some benefits. These days it seems a lot scarier out there than it was in the 60s or 70s. People get to be over 40 and they find an excuse to discard you. It's horrible.

[daschess1987]

180. Kick

[ColesCountyDem]

190. Thank you!

[grasswire]

191. kick again nt

[tblue37]

249. Hello, grasswire. I have not seen any posts from you recently, and I

was hoping you were OK. I don't know you, but I deeply admire your efforts to help DUers who have fallen on hard times, and I always contribute *something* to each Wishadoo request posted on DU, even if I often can't manage more than $10 at a time.

I don't make all that much, and I have only about $150/month in income from the second week of June to the second week of September (and my first check in September is only a half check!). During the summer I live on what I can save during the 9 1/2 months that I get my regular checks from the university. That is why my contributions during the summer months are only $10 at a time. But during the school year, when I get regular checks, I always try to donate $25-$30 to each funding drive, unless several occur at once, which forces me to limit each contribution to $10.

Still, I know that even small contributions can add up fast. I think some people want to contribute but worry that their $5 or $10 donation would be too small to help, but they do add up.

Even those whose financial circumstances are too precarious to allow them to donate are doing their part by keeping such threads kicked, and even more important, by offering words of encouragement and compassion to the person involved.

A recent OP worried that we could get scammed, but I think that is unlikely when the individual is a long time member with thousands of posts. We can get a sense of who the person is by reading years' and years' worth of posts. I can't imagine someone would run a "long con" for such a measly payout.

Anyway, once again I want to thank you for all the good work you have done with Wishadoo.

Oh, and I am also kicking this thread for more visibilty.

[PuraVidaDreamin]

192. Get ready to catch

This energy ball full of love!

[ColesCountyDem]

211. I caught it!

Thank you!

[ancianita]

194. Donation made, and a wish for a good outcome for you from a fellow Dem in Chicago.

[ColesCountyDem]

212. Thank you!

We IL Dems are a hardy lot, as we've proved by turning our once 'purple' state into a realiably blue one.

[winter is coming]

196. Kick. Threads like this are why I love DU. n/t

[ColesCountyDem]

213. Thank you!

I can't even express properly the love I feel right now. It's both humbing and amazing.

[sufrommich]

198. Woohoo! You're $5.00 away from $3000!

That should take some of the pressure off. for DU!

[ColesCountyDem]

214. It feels like the weight of the world is being lifted off of my shoulders!

[A HERETIC I AM]

200. Glad to help a bit

I was just gonna spend it on beer anyway!

Hope your future gets brighter.

[Omaha Steve]

202. $3,015

$3,015 Raised by 75 people in 1 day

[Liberal_in_LA]

206. now 80 doners

[ColesCountyDem]

215. Thank you!

Although I quit drinking after college, I still believe in the old saying that "Beer is proof that God does indeed love us".

[deek]

203. glad to help

and kick for visibility

[kentauros]

204. I wanted to let you know I just donated

Let's keep this kicked until you reach that goal, too!

[ColesCountyDem]

216. Thank you, and I will do so!

[lovemydog]

205. ColesCountyDem, my heart is with you.

I hope what you receive is long-lasting, both in monetary and spiritual terms. All the best to you.

[ColesCountyDem]

218. It will be both, and thank you!

The outpouring of love has been both humbling and amazing.

[auntAgonist]

207. This breaks my heart and I wish I had more to give, but if we all give a little ...... n/t

[ColesCountyDem]

219. A lot of us are in the same boat, or one paycheck away, sadly.

For 35 years, what was generally expected by our parents and what we ourselves would also become ours has been systematically looted, plundered and pillaged.

[auntAgonist]

209. K&R

[ColesCountyDem]

220. Thank you again!

[auntAgonist]

234. You are welcome. I wish I had more to donate than I did but I hope it helps a bit. n/t

[Granny M]

210. K&R

I hope we can get the message back on the main page, for those who didn't see it yesterday.

[ColesCountyDem]

221. Thank you for helping with that effort!

[steve2470]

217. kick nt

[steve2470]

222. kick nt

[Omaha Steve]

223. Kick

[pintobean]

224. K&R

[steve2470]

225. chipped in a little nt

[tblue37]

226. Kick, because you are still more than $2000 short,

and because someone posted a thread today that seems to suggest a lot of requests must be scams. I truly don't think the ones on DU are scams.

[Omaha Steve]

233. What thread?

[ColesCountyDem]

236. Thank you for the kick!

[Rhiannon12866]

227. K&R! Made a donation and wishing you all the best!

[ColesCountyDem]

237. Thank you!

I received it.

[Rhiannon12866]

242. You're more than welcome...

Kicking this back to the top!

[Guy Whitey Corngood]

228. Let's keep this at the top. nt

[ColesCountyDem]

239. Thank you!

[catchnrelease]

229. I just checked back

Wow over $4k now, woohoo! Oh and here's another

[ColesCountyDem]

238. Isn't it amazing?

[steve2470]

230. kick nt

[Granny M]

231. Two-thirds of the way there. Kick! nt

[Liberal_in_LA]

232. kick

[ColesCountyDem]

240. Thank you both!

[GreenEyedLefty]

235. Will contribute via Paypal...

just need your info.

[ColesCountyDem]

241. Jus sent it. Thank you!

[Omaha Steve]

243. Kick

[steve2470]

244. what is the status of your campaign ? nt

[Liberal_in_LA]

245. $4083 donated. he asked for $6000

[steve2470]

246. ok maybe within a week or so he can complete it ! nt

[Omaha Steve]

247. Tote board says....

$4,098 of $6,000

Raised by 86 people in 4 days

[ColesCountyDem]

248. Isn't that incredible?

[Omaha Steve]

250. What is the PayPal total so far?

[ColesCountyDem]

251. $340.

[Omaha Steve]

252. So after all the fees....

Your actual amount is right at $4,000?

OS

[ColesCountyDem]

253. Correct, OS.

2/3 of the way there!

[Omaha Steve]

254. We are not there yet

Marta & I are kicking in again tomorrow.

OS

[ColesCountyDem]

258. Thank you both so much!

[Omaha Steve]

255. Kick

[niyad]

256. cannot help, but can help keep this kicked for you.

[ColesCountyDem]

257. Thank you!