Neurologist recommended I apply for SSDI but got rejected - anyone appealed successfully?

Yeah, welcome to the club! The SSA rejects almost EVERYONE on the first application. It's like their default position is NO unless you're literally on your deathbed. I have Lupus and got rejected TWICE before finally getting approved. Don't give up!!

i got rejected 2 im only 36 but have rheumatoid arthritis real bad. think they expect eveyone to just keep working no matter what

Initial denials are unfortunately very common with SSDI applications, even with strong medical evidence. The key with appeals is understanding the SSA is looking for very specific documentation that proves you cannot perform any substantial gainful activity (SGA). For your appeal, you should definitely: 1. Request a reconsideration first (this is the first level of appeal) 2. Gather additional medical evidence - especially functional capacity evaluations 3. Get your neurologist to specifically address why you cannot perform even sedentary work 4. Document your daily limitations in detail 5. Consider additional specialist opinions if possible Your MS diagnosis is certainly a qualifying condition, but the SSA needs to see documentation that it prevents you from working any job, not just your current one. Make sure your medical records specifically address cognitive limitations, fatigue levels, and mobility restrictions.

YES, absolutely appeal! I was denied twice for my fibromyalgia and POTS before getting approved at my hearing. It's frustrating but almost part of the process now. You only have 60 days to request reconsideration from the date on your denial letter, so don't wait! Things that helped me: - Getting a lawyer (they only get paid if you win) - Having my doctors fill out an RFC (Residual Functional Capacity) form - Keeping a daily journal of my symptoms and limitations - Getting statements from family/friends about how they see my condition affecting me Also, at 42, they're scrutinizing you more because you're under 50. The system has these "grid rules" where it's actually easier to get approved when you're older. Stupid but true.

Sorry to jump in, but I was in a similar situation with my rheumatoid arthritis. Got denied first try too, even though I could barely use my hands some days (I was a dental hygienist). My sister went through the same thing with her MS.

I couldn't believe how hard it was to even talk to someone at SSA when I was going through this process. Calling their regular number was a nightmare - hours on hold only to get disconnected. I finally used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me through to a real person at Social Security in under 5 minutes. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU Saved me so much frustration during the appeal process when I needed to check on status and documents. Made a huge difference being able to actually talk to someone instead of waiting forever.

I work as a paralegal at a disability law firm, and I can tell you that about 65-70% of initial applications are denied, regardless of the strength of the medical evidence. The reconsideration level (first appeal) has an even higher denial rate of about 85%. However, at the hearing level (where you appear before an Administrative Law Judge), approval rates improve significantly to about 50%. Based on what you've described, you have a legitimate case worth pursuing. MS is a listed impairment with the SSA, but they're looking for specific documentation of how it limits you. Here's what I recommend: 1. File your Request for Reconsideration immediately (form SSA-561) 2. Consider obtaining legal representation now (most lawyers won't charge unless you win) 3. Focus on documenting your bad days - how many per month, severity, recovery time 4. Get your neurologist to specifically document cognitive limitations, not just physical ones 5. If you have MRIs or other objective testing, make sure those are submitted The process is frustrating but designed to weed out all but the most persistent claimants. Don't give up - many deserving people get denied initially.

anybody know if u can work part time while waiting for disability? i need some income while i wait

just wanna say hang in there. the system is designed to wear us down. took me 2 years but i finally got approved.

One important thing to understand about the SSDI process: the SSA has what they call the "sequential evaluation process" - five steps they use to determine disability: 1. Are you working above SGA level? ($1,550/month in 2025) 2. Is your condition "severe"? 3. Does your condition meet or equal a medical listing? 4. Can you do your past work? 5. Can you do any work in the national economy? Based on your description, they denied you at step 5 - they're saying despite your MS, they believe you can do some type of work. This is where you need to focus your appeal. For MS specifically, compile evidence related to: - Fatigue levels throughout the day (time-specific documentation) - Cognitive issues like memory problems, focus, concentration - Motor control difficulties - Vision problems if applicable - Need for rest periods throughout the day Demonstrate why these symptoms make even sedentary work impossible to sustain consistently.