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bob
Member
Username: West_of_rome
Post Number: 44
Registered: 12-2009
| | Posted on Sunday, March 27, 2011 - 08:31 pm: | 
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I'm on the liver transplant list and I assume I will need to go on disability at some point in the future, as I've been more and more tired and barely able to make it through the eight hour work day. Can anyone tell me home much you make on disability and how long it takes to go through? I have a full time job, but for the past 4 months we've been only working 32 hours a week due to how slow things are. Is it based on the 40 hour week or just the 32 hour week and what percent? If anyone can help with anything related to this topic, I would appreciate it. Thanks
"Joan of Arc had style. Jesus had style."
Charles Bukowski |
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papillonbleu
Forum Leader
Username: Papillonbleu
Post Number: 1937
Registered: 10-2007
| | Posted on Monday, March 28, 2011 - 08:23 am: |
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I am currently receiving SSI, but I did not work long enough to earn enough credits to receive social security disability as I became too sick at too young an age to be able to work long enough. I think it took about six months or so to get approved for SSI which I applied for after my transplant. I hope that if you need to go on disability, you will be able to get the support you need. I wish I could have been more helpful. Best of wishes.
Bobbiejo
Forum Leader-Multivisceral
dx: GERD 1995, gastroparesis 2002, pseudo-obstruction of the bowel 2004
multivisceral transplant, 6 organs, 10/06/05
University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital
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Bob's Deb
Member
Username: Snowtiger5062
Post Number: 3
Registered: 03-2011
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 29, 2011 - 02:10 pm: |
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Wow, glad you are able to still work! Has your doctor(s) advised you that you should apply, or wait until you are actually disabled? However, you should not wait to apply if they have told you to. Anyway, I hope this helps answer your question, due to your own situation you may qualify for either SSI or SSAD, it all depends on current finances. If you or your spouse have an income after you are actually "disabled" will be the determining factor as to which you qualify for. You can apply online, and if I remember correctly, you actually apply for both, then they (Soc. Sec.) determine which one. SSAD goes by what you have paid into over your working career as a whole, not what you are doing currently. For example, my husband at the time of disability was making 1800-2500 per month as a truck driver, I am also a truck driver making about the same, I make too much by their standard for him to qualify for SSI. He does qualify for SSAD because he has worked 40+ years, you get a letter from Soc. Sec. every year before your birthday that gives you an approximate amount. A note of warning here: if you qualify for SSAD you will have to wait 6 months before you receive that first check...Plan for it now!! Suffice it to say, he does not get near what he was making at his time of disability. SSI I am not sure how they determine what you get, (it is like applying for food stamps, it is income based) a lot will depend on what other income you and your family have, your age, as well as other factors. Be prepared to apply more than once and have your doctors on board with you as well, my husband had a letter as well as all records available when he applied. Good luck and keep up the good health for as long as you can! |
Susie
Member
Username: Dachsiefan
Post Number: 1
Registered: 04-2011
| | Posted on Friday, April 01, 2011 - 01:11 pm: |
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In 2007, I was let go my employer after seven years of service. While interviewing for new jobs, I was diagnosed with hepatic encephalothapy and referred to transplant. In March 2008' I applied for Social Security disability because of my incredible fatigue and cognitive problems. I was originally denied as most people are. I asked to be reconsidered and again was denied. I was devastated. I could hardly handle a phone conversation, and Social Security thought I was able to work. The best thing I did was to hire a social security experienced lawyer. In three months, she got Social Security to reverse their decision and grant me disability. Her fee came out of the benefits owed me, and I was able to deduct the expense on my taxes.
My monthly benefits are based on 22 years of work. I am only 49. It's approximately 40 percent of what I used to make. Last year, I qualified for Medicare since I had been disabled two years.
My advice is to start the process as soon as you can. With Liver disease, you run the gamut from good times to bad.
Susie
Giant Cell Hepatitis, unknown cause
Cirrhosis and ESLD
PreTransplant
Meld 16 |
mrmajestyk
Member
Username: Mrmajestyk
Post Number: 32
Registered: 11-2010
| | Posted on Wednesday, April 13, 2011 - 12:23 am: |
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I lost a Project Manager position officially on December 19th, but off work from June 13 to December, I drew STD from work (about 900 monthly) I hired a Social Security lawyer and was denied in October, filed appeal and I sent a letter in my own writing telling them I made almost 100 K per year and I did not like to do it but it was my only chance, too sick to even walk more than 100 feet and I recieved LONG TERM DISABILITY, 2070 monthly and was approved by Social Security and received first payment. I was going through an evaluation at a facility in Florida until today and I received a call that a facility that turned me down 2 times in Ohio accepted me, in 2 to 3 months I will get a new liver!! THANK THE LORD
| Hope is the feeling you have that the feeling you have isn’t permanent. -Jean Kerr |
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Mariel
Member
Username: Mariel
Post Number: 59
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Wednesday, April 13, 2011 - 08:58 am: |
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I am sooo happy to read your news, Bill! Keep up the good work and keep fighting! Godspeed now! I'll be on the lookout for your email that says all was successful. Keeping you and family in my prayers!
Mariel, wife of PSCott
www.caringbridge.org/visit/scottcarr |
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health journey
Member
Username: Health_journey
Post Number: 1
Registered: 04-2011
| | Posted on Friday, April 22, 2011 - 11:57 am: |
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When I could no longer work, I first went on temporary disability and collected a reduced amt of money for 6 months. When that ended, I found out the company I worked for had a long term disability plan (they don't always tell you. you have to ask). I was eligible for the long term disability which runs to age 65 as long as you are totally disabled. the dis. company was allowed to deduct social security, which had turned me down previously. The ins co. hired a firm and paid for it and they were able to get me on social security and then medicare. It was better for them because their payments were reduced and I was thrilled with the outcome. It was a godsend and I was very grateful. I had my liver transplant in Oct 2009 and am doing very well. Good luck to you. |
Amy Tippins
Member
Username: Amytippins
Post Number: 26
Registered: 06-2009
| | Posted on Saturday, April 23, 2011 - 03:04 pm: |
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Bob, Can I voice something that might be contrary to what everyone else is going to maybe say? Try to work as long as you can and also go back to work as fast as possible...it has a major effect on your long term health. Ask your doctor who is traditionally healthier post transplant...people working or not working. I guarantee you they will say working. I understand being tired pre and post transplant....I was transplanted 18 years ago and I had been sick for 5 years. I was exhausted all the time and still get tired A LOT. I just know that I am capable of work 2 full time jobs and work out. I mentor transplant patients and all of my patients have gone back to work and none of them have ever had an episode of rejection. It really is one of the many factors of a successful transplant
RockScar Love is where we celebrate the scars of new life! www.Rock Scar Love.com
A portion of sales credited to Transplant Buddies goes to COTA! |
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Rita
Forum Leader
Username: Rita
Post Number: 669
Registered: 06-2003
| | Posted on Sunday, April 24, 2011 - 05:04 pm: |
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Amy, interesting post. I dont doubt what you say, but I love to see some stats if you have them. I also think they type of employment affects if someone can do a job or not. I think health plays a major role. I also think right now the job market is very difficult to keep a job or find a job. I do agree with you doctors would rather you work if you are health enough to do so.
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Amy Tippins
Member
Username: Amytippins
Post Number: 31
Registered: 06-2009
| | Posted on Monday, April 25, 2011 - 07:25 am: |
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I will look into stats for you, Rita. I know that I have talked to my doctor, a few transplant nurses and also some associations that are involved in patient care and all of them vouch that patients traditionally that work and workout have a higher graft success rate. I know that it is hard to find a job right now, but that does not mean a patient should use that as an excuse on why NOT to work...they should be looking for work. Yes, I am not sure if type of job has as much as an effect as how you deal with the stress from the job. The guy who got the heart from my donor (18 years ago) is 73 now and works 50 hours a week as one of the top attorneys in the US and has never had an episode of rejection. A good friend of mine is a lung transplant patient and he works in medical sales and is in dr ofcs all the time and is in great health doing triathalons. The point I am trying to make is that mental and what you do with your life has alot to do with how well you do. My opinion and you know what they say about opinions.....
RockScar Love is where we celebrate the scars of new life! www.Rock Scar Love.com
A portion of sales credited to Transplant Buddies goes to COTA! |
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Hostess Meagan
Forum Leader
Username: Newheart14
Post Number: 1886
Registered: 01-2009
| | Posted on Monday, April 25, 2011 - 11:01 am: |
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There are many people who are unable to work before and after transplant. Not everyone is lucky enough to be able to resume the life they had before they became ill, especially if their work environment is not a safe one. I agree that whatever exercise you can do is important in recovery, but not everyone can run a marathon. You just have to do the best you can. Transplant is a treatment not a cure.
Heart-Liver Transplant - February 14, 2008
TGH, Toronto, Canada
Idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy 1991 and CHF
- Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept trying when there seemed to be no hope at all - Dale Carnegie
- Bumps in the road can sometimes be mountains, so I have learned to climb mountains - Meagan
Meagan's Blog |
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Rita
Forum Leader
Username: Rita
Post Number: 670
Registered: 06-2003
| | Posted on Monday, April 25, 2011 - 06:09 pm: |
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i have to be honest, i really think almost all people who are waiting for a transplant or who have a transplant do want to work but for various reasons are unable to work. This is the reason why disability is out there for people who need it. I feel that there are many ways we can make the world a better place for other, yes, working is one way to help ourselves and others but there are many other ways just a valuable.
When I was on dialysis i really wasnt able to work, so I tried to touch other lives while I was in the dialysis center. I also tried to make the best life for my daughter who was very young at the time. I knitted blankets for people in nursing homes. I tried the best I could to help those around me. I also felt kind of bad that I wasnt "working" and receiving disability. I did go back to work a year after my transplant and have been working full time for the last 15 years.
It is just my opinion but I do think that the value of how one lives their life is more important than if they are employed or not. I think one can do more for society and the world sometimes by simply being kind and loving to others. By allowing others to help you when you are ill -- you make the world a better place too because kindness given or received makes love of other grow. These are the simple wisdoms I have learned through time. So if you feel you need to go on disability please do because that is what is there for. We all have times in our life that we are on the giving end and the receiving end, and that is what we in my humble opinion we are her for---each other.
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Amy Tippins
Member
Username: Amytippins
Post Number: 33
Registered: 06-2009
| | Posted on Tuesday, April 26, 2011 - 03:17 pm: |
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I agree that some people do need disability. And yes, it is important to give back as well. I just feel very strongly that permanent disability should not be offered up so quickly to post transplant patients because I think commonly it becomes an easy out. They feel entitled. I know quite a few transplant patients who are using the system in a negative way. I know patients who are on disability that play in bands, go barhopping nightly or do triathlons. While I think that being able to work out is important, I do not think you need to be on disability if you are working on that seriously or you are spending nights out partying. I have heard the phrase in regards to the reason why they had disability was "tired". Well, I know alot of transplant patients who are tired that work full time. I am exhausted most of the time because I do what I have to take care of myself in regards to food, insurance, etc. I work two jobs, I mentor transplant patients, I am on two planning committees for NKF and constantly am helping friends out. Are all patients this active? No and that is okay. I just do not want someone to take advantage of the system and have it reflect on me in the eyes of society. I think the patient has responsibility above all first to their donor family and that means at all cost taking the responsibility to live their life. For me, If I have two hands then I will never take disability because I do not feel it is someone else's responsibility to take care of me or my bills. It was the way that I was raise...that no one else is responsible for me, but me. I just feel strongly that our donor families didn't give us the chance to have a new life to take it easy and depend on others. Like I said, my opinion.
RockScar Love is where we celebrate the scars of new life! www.Rock Scar Love.com
A portion of sales credited to Transplant Buddies goes to COTA! |
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Essie
Member
Username: Epascual
Post Number: 13
Registered: 04-2011
| | Posted on Wednesday, April 27, 2011 - 03:30 am: |
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To Amy:
The person that started this thread asked about a disability question, not your opinion. Other people has had something to say about what they knew about disability, but you have only insisted on rambling on about whether everyone should work and not use the system for disability, although it's something they are entitled to. Don't try to make anyone on disability guilty with "if I have two hands I don't not feel it's someone else's responsibility to take care of me".
You work two jobs, and you are exhausted but you like it that way, good for you, but again, I remind you that the person asked for a disability question. You obviously can't help with the answer so I suggest you keep your opinion to yourself.
Essie |
Rita
Forum Leader
Username: Rita
Post Number: 671
Registered: 06-2003
| | Posted on Wednesday, April 27, 2011 - 06:46 am: |
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Bob, I went down to the social security office, I was told to by my doctor to do so. They pulled up my work history, they asked questions, (why did you go from this pay to that pay jump). The person filled out all my paperwork on the computer. I received I think back then (1992) about $600 a month. One check was for my daughter who was 4 at the time and one for me. I had to prove that the money for my daughter I actually used for her. The ss continued till I called them a few months after I got a job and told them I no longer needed it.
I hope this information has helped you. I think if you do a search on this site you will see that there are lots of posts on this subject. Wishing you the best.
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Zedition
Member
Username: Zedition
Post Number: 1
Registered: 05-2011
| | Posted on Wednesday, May 04, 2011 - 01:22 pm: |
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Assuming you are American by your idioms, the US OAS benefits calculator is here:
http://www.ssa.gov/dibplan/index.htm
You can either use your real data and find out the exact amount or the estimator. For me, my wife and 4 kids, it's $3,700 per month.
Qualifying for disability payments can be difficult unless your LFT's are very high (MELD ~> 23). It depends on why your liver is shot. For me, it's PSC, which means a long, slow burn-down with significant comorbid conditions (so far for me: diabetes, arthritis, ulcerative colitis, recurrent bacterial cholangitis, advanced sleep phase disorder and hepatic encephalopathy). You may also qualify under the disability rules for comorbid conditions. I qualify as disabled under the mental impairment rules due to mild encephalopathy although I do not qualify under liver disease. I don't take payments yet though, as long as I can remember how to write computer code, I can work.
After you qualify, you get payments until transplant, then for one more year. In practice, many older people are adjudged permanently disabled after transplant and can continue payments in perpetuity. If you are young, the SS Admin is less likely to grant you permanent disability.
Qualifying for disability does not automatically qualify you for other state benefits like food stamps or rent assistance although these are frequently linked. Food stamps are particularly thorny, as if you have any IRA investments, these need to be spent down before you can get payments. 401k and 403b plans are not considered - so if you have $1,000,000 in a 401k, you get food stamps. $10,000 in an IRA, and no soup for you. |
crazydave
Member
Username: Crazydave0866
Post Number: 8
Registered: 12-2011
| | Posted on Monday, January 02, 2012 - 01:34 pm: |
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Bob. I would be willing to be tested for compatibility as a liver donor. I am A+ and could be tested locally and would be willing to travel for the transplant. I am sorry that you are having such trouble and hope that this new year will be one of new beginnings for you and your loved ones.
David
Contact me at crazydave0866@yahoo.com and see me on youtube under crazydave 0866 |
AC
Member
Username: Asunlesssea
Post Number: 2
Registered: 02-2012
| | Posted on Monday, February 27, 2012 - 10:22 am: |
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I recently got the ok to go back to work, but I was getting a measly 449 dollars a month. |
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