work / social security questions

[george40]

Hello, Do you have to completely stop working before filing for social security disability? Also, whats the average time between application and approval for ESRD? Last question, how much can you earn in a part time job if you are on ss disability? Thanks.

[paul.karen]

Hello George.
These are excellent questions i also would like to know the answers to.

Also if trying to collect SS>  can you also collect unemployment if you get layed off?

Sorry to hear the cycler isnt working out George.  Did you end up giving it another go?
and congrats on the baby, not sure how i missed all this.
P&K

[willieandwinnie]

George, you don't have to completely stop working. Social Security lets you earn a certain amount before they start taking dollar for dollar what you earn. I believe the amount is 800.00 a month. You should apply for SSD as soon as you are diagnosed with ESRD. As far as how long it takes, that really varies. Some folks are lucky and get it in 3 months. It took us almost 2 years and then had to get our Senator involved. I don't know about the unemployment part, that's a good question and maybe someone else will chime in. Don't delay in filing is what I think is most important. Hope this helps. 

[george40]

Hello, as an update I had my ss appointment. They told me I could still work while my application is being processed, however i should not earn more than 940 per month. Hearing that was such a blessing. I went part time at work and hopefully things will work out. I think with changes in washington i think I heard the wage one can earn for 2009 on ss has been increased to around $14,000 (Im not sure about this though).

PK - So far no good on the cycler (bummer). They want the surgeon to try another placement (without guarantees). Since manual /capd works well, I will stick with it instead of an 'exploratory' surgery. It already took 2 surgeries to get the catheter initially placed. So, manuals it is for now. Ill keep you posted. On the layoff, I am not sure if you can collect unemployment and ss at the same time, its a good question though.