Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge of the Grid Rule to us because I used it on my application when I applied for disability back in June 2019 and I just mentioned it on my application and I believe it was the reason I received such a quick decision on yesterday 01/17/2020 Thank you, God!!!
I want to thank you for all your videos they really helped me and guess what I had a lady from Social Security call me to day and told me i got my SSI that is amazing i could not believe it she said my first check will be in the mail in ten days thanks for the help and i praise God for helping me . I am so excited i have been fighting for eight years but i quit one year so i did not get all that back pay just from March of this year til now but at least i got it . thanks again have a awesome day
I'm 57 and I have Arthritis in my Knees. I can only work Partime and even then it be hard. Filed in November 2017 was denied. Just put in for my Appeal recently. Thankyou for the Video. Very helpful. 👍😊
My pleasure. If you are over age 50, look at the grid rules. Otherwise you will need to argue for disability based on both a loss of physical capacity and because of pain that takes you off task for 20% of the day or longer.
I’m 54 and have diplopia and the judge did not even bother to use the grid rules for my case. These judges could care less about approving your case. The whole system is corrupt.
Having an attorney prepare your case and submit a pre-hearing brief laying out your theory of disability under the grid rules is the best route if your situation fits. It makes the judge's job easy!
Glasses can probably fix the problem. Unless you have other problems. Needing glasses will not get you disability. www.webmd.com/eye-health/double-vision-diplopia-causes-symptoms-diagnosis-treatment#1
Hi, Jonathan! I'm a 50yr old and on April 19,2022 I filled out an application for SSDI. I have a solid work history I have been working since 1987 and every year after that up until recently in January 2022. I also have earned the work credits needed to qualify. The last job I had I worked for them for 28 and a half years and the job was very physical and required constant overtime it literally aged me by 10yrs. Well now I have ended up with inflammatory arthritis in my lower back, both knees, both hands and in my right foot. I just came by your video on the grid rules and I lit up because it totally applies to my situation. I am high school educated with no transferable working skills other than driving. However since I'm just now hearing about the grid rule I failed to mission it in my application and I can't go back in to do so. I'd love to hear what you think?! Please?
I will be 57 years old at the end of December. I have zero job skills. No education beyond 12th grade high school. Lousy short term memory. Social phobia. (Full blown panic attacks in public.) (I know those last two aren't relevant to the grid rules. Even so, I have them.) The only physical problems that I have worth mentioning are a virtually zero grip strength in my right hand. (I don't know why, but I've had that most of my life.) And all the fingers of both hands are crooked rather than straight. (Possibly teratogenic in origin, but I don't know. They've been crooked going all the way back to early childhood.) I'm only 5 foot 1. Do you think I would have a better than average chance in getting disability based on the information that I have provided?
Would I fit the Grid Rules "50 and over" if the judge finds me sedentary but finds I can handle 10lbs frequently 20lbs occasionally? I can stand no longer than 2 hrs total a day but 20lbs being the concern.. Thanks
In theory the judge should know that the grid rules apply. My practice, however, is to point out that this theory of disability applies in my opening statement or pre-hearing brief.
i had a telephone hearing 5/5/2022 the only questions he asked me was my name, ss#, and birthday then said this looks like a grid rule case read a few things to the vocational expert she stated i couldn't stand for 6 hours and judge read disabled but did not rule, the whole phone call lasted 10 minutes. i and lawyer feels 99.9% confident on a fully favorable. im 62
Hi Jonathan, I wish I could have had you as my Attorney. I worked my entire life and for the last 15 years I have been a nurse. I have cervical stenosis bulging disc and can't lift my right arm without shooting pain into my fingers and I drop things. I also have lumbar stenosis bulging disc. I have tumors growing on bottom of both feet which caused me a lot of pain. I am 58 will be 59 in 2 months. I had the worst experience today at my appeal with Judge. My lawyer did not make an opening statement and he just sat there while the judge was being horrible, I felt to me. For example the judge asked me about my medication side effects and I explained that I take gabapentin for pain and for seizures. He said "well, have you ever considered getting on a different medicine? Then he made me show him what kind of shoes I was wearing. I had on a nice pair of leather flats because I didn't think it was appropriate for me to wear tennis shoes. He gave me a smart allick remark again and said, well those are basically house slippers. He just said so many condescending things to me through the entire situation. I told him that my arm Right arm gets weak and I drop things and I can't pull up insulin and give shots anymore. He said, well can you move your left arm and I said yes your Honor, and he said well then, why can't you use your left arm and hands. I'm right handed. When it came time for the vocational expert to say what I can do, they listed 3 things which were bazaar, like a floor mopper, ticket taker and equipment washer. My lawyer just sat there and didn't say a word. I thought they could ONLY go back 15 years. My lawyer has the worst personality. The initial Lawyer who I hired, ran for circuit judge and won so now I have this one who I thought was going to be great, but he acts like he doesn't have to answer questions that I have. He never went over with me what to do or expect before today. I'm so upset. Please give me some insight into what you think. Are some judges just nasty and it doesn't mean anything? Thank you so much.
Patti, some judges are nasty and sarcastic but can still be fair and reasonable when deciding claims. However, it seems to me that every SSD judge ought to realize that you (the claimant) has been waiting for your day in court for 2 to 3 years and that you are deserving of respect and consideration. If a judge has become so cynical that he/she cannot be at least pleasant - regardless of the merits of a case - that judge ought to find a different line of work.
@@ssdattorney Thank you so much for taking the time to answer me. You are a truly kind and caring person. I was just stumped by the way he acted. I have a long work record, I have verification of my problems and it was as though he was deliberately trying to humiliate me. I tried to answer his questions honestly but I have waited 2 years, I used to live in a beautiful home by the lake and now I live in a tiny apartment. He could easily see that I was a hard worker. And my lawyer, didn't even say an opening statement or something about the crazy jobs like floor mopper, ticket taker and equipment washer. I'm not too proud to do any job for money, but I can't. I'm glad to hear that judges can be fair although they just feel everyone is lying. Thank you Jonathan. You are such a good man.
I just want to thank you for all your very insightful videos. I would like to know more about my own case from my attorney but haven't had any advise,tips, nor even a sit down meeting with exception of ten to fifteen minutes at my AlJ hearing Jan 2nd, 2018. I chose large law firm and basically had to rely on my paralegal? Im not sure what to expect, however im 58 with 02 at home, heart issues as well as mental and developed a heart murmur from stress according to Dr
Yes, I have been told, since my hearing that it is venous insuffiemcy. I was hospitalized twice for cellulitis but never told I had venous insuffiemcy. I also had pnuemonia and told I have heart murmur. Im still waiting decision
I just had my SSDI hearing. Im 56. The VE eliminated my past work but said my transferable skills apply to Teachers Aid 1 entry level. Full time meets the SGA. After some exchanges with my lawyer about my part time work history and my limitations the VE said I could do the work part time. My lawyer pointed out that won't meet an SGA income. The VE had no response and shrugged her shoulders then an awkward pause. The ALJ then quickly wrapped it up with some formal talk and it was all over in less than a half hour. Does 'other work' have to meet SGA income? My lawyer was upbeat but said it's up to the judge.
@@ssdattorney Thanks, it sounds promising but...I did collect unemployment after my last job. Without thinking /research I claimed my onset date was when my last job ended. I filed for SSDI a year after work ended, i didn't have my UI on my mind. Was dumb. My lawyer was very negative on this at pre trial and expected to have problems going forward through the steps. The ALJ did ask if I'd collected unemployment, asked if I had looked for easier work after my last job. Of course I answered honestly, yes. We made it through the steps, my lawyer really went to bat and it ended as described above. Do you think if my UI had been a deal breaker the judge wouldn't have continued the steps to the end? Would he consider it later and deny me? My lawyer said, after, the UI factor is in there but she was practically on cloud nine but still up to the judge.
I fall into many of the grid rules but yet social security still keeps denying me my work history is in the food service industry and two jobs in hvac and the work requirements I cant do any of them and I have several drs show in my medical records that I'm disabled and those records are over 13 inches thick those doctors are 3 pain doctors a primary doctor a chiropractor a mental health facility where I've seen several different therapists as well as 2 nurse practitioners and a doctor who prescribed me my medication for ADHD and depression and anxiety disorders and over a dozen physical therapy sessions where the last one did an aquatic exercise and I was in so much pain after doing the aquatic therapy I had to cancel half of those appointments
Joe, a couple of things to keep in mind. First, SSA considers chiropractic as "alternative medicine" and gives no weight to the opinion of a chiropractor. Second, the grid rules only apply to exertional (physical) medical issues. You can't use the grids for depression or anxiety. So the problem here may be that you are submitting evidence that does not satisfy SSA's requirements.
@@ssdattorney it's not the evidence not being submitted that's the problem the problem is with-in social security itself I'm in my fourth time going the process the first time when the so called vocational expert would bring up a point that would help my case my lawyer would start to elaborate on said point the judge told her not to speak unless she was specifically called upon by name the second judge never asked anything about my health problems but only asked about the fraternity I belong to the third judge acknowledged my health problems and acknowledged that my health problems were as bad as I was claiming but she still denied my case and all three judges never gave the reason why my case was denied and they have records not only from the chiropractor which ok they may look at as alternative treatments and they have records from my primary doctor who treated my joint issues for years and they have records from 3 different pain specialists who has or is currently treating my back and knee issues and they have records from a clinic that deals in mental health issues and depression and anxiety disorders which all of the records from all of those places including the chiropractor is well over 15 inches thick and growing thicker so my lawyers and I have given social security everything that they asked for plus some on past treatment and continued treatment
The grid rules only apply if you have a physical impairment but your limited education would likely limit you to simple, entry-level jobs. If you have some other medical issues, you could have a good argument for disability.
Im on first appeal for SSDI I have a some college education and I’m 48. My profession before becoming disabled was property management. My mental limitations are bipolar 2 with chronic PTSD my physical limitations are blood clots in legs had surgery for back issues. IBS I just had X-ray for back and neck. I’m trying to get more evidence because of swelling in legs I can’t stand for more then 20 minutes and I can’t stand for more then 20 minutes. My meds make me tired or spacey. I’m constantly running to bathroom 🚽 what more do I need? I have more then enough work credits.
Are the grid rules applicable for SSI only (which I qualify for by being statutory blind by a wide margin), or also for SSDI that depends on work credits (which I don't have enough of and thereby don't qualify for SSDI)? If I understand correctly, grid rules would only be applicable for the SSI determination and not for the SSDI. Correct?
2015 i had a decetomy c3,c4,c5. Im 50 and 9th grade education. I got a closed period back in 2015 when i was 46. Now I applied again,i tried going back to work,i get eperdaral and pain management, phiyical therapy hurts to much,just to much. I rather work I can make more money
I didn't realize that by appealing a partially favorable decision that I was putting myself at risk. I applied for a reconsideration on the Dates I said Apr 25th 2017 they said Oct 16th 2017 my 55th bday. I filed late on the reconsideration. I have been getting my benefits for a year. Last week I got a call saying In Aug. I am having a hearing. I now don't want to go through with it. Since it is about 2 months away can I change my mind and agree with the decision? Please I'm now scared to death. I thought that I was only appealing the date. I didn't know I could loose everything!
Wow.. I too was bamified to the max when my attorney 'slained that one to me..I'd dial-a-lawyer immediately to see the extent of the damage you caused yourself simply by being direct and looking out for what's really already unofficially yours. It's really a shame that after working so hard for so long your entire life, playing by the rules without taking the shortcuts and not living off the government ( welfare, food stamps, and medicaid ) that you almost have to pussy-foot around the system for fear of coming across greedy-When in fact all you're doing is standing up for yourself and the benefits that you've already paid unto the system since age 16.. because no one else is going to grow a pair and stand up for you.
They are supposed to but my experience has been that adjudicators don't really understand the grid rules so they mostly analyze by looking for listing level impairments. I tell applicants to reference the grid rules by exact number when they apply (assuming the grids are applicable) but I haven't gotten much feedback as to whether these folks are having success. Certainly there is no harm in trying.
Hi Jonathan Thanks for all the GREAT videos you make the're Very Very helpful understanding SSA I'm a 56 year old widower of almost 2 years i've been a smoker since they told us it was good for us..... now i have trouble breathing i wheeze, and have shortness of breath making difficult to walk also i have diabetes & neuropathy in my feet and hands also making it difficult to walk but i have hardly any medical records... Also i have hardly any work history in the last 10 years as my wife had a good paying job before she passed away at the age of 58.... Now i'm on Obama care (Medicaid) in my state Can i start collecting my wife's SS benefits at age 60 or age 50 if i qualify for Disability? And what's the chances of winning a case with hardly any medical records ....So what should i do?
You may have a claim for disabled widower's benefits using your late wife's earnings record. Based on what you write , it appears that you have a solid claim.
@@hcwcars1can you let me know when you applied how long did it take to process your application and did they ask you for doctor records and your spouse death certificate
@@hcwcars1 l hope l get it just applied April 3 was denied for ssi due to income limits.l applied for disabled widow benefits l had heart stents put in twice l hope they approve me.when l checked online it said still processing lm 56 ant 2 be 57 out of work since march... did they write you approval letter or call your
How do I get the SSDI board to place me on the grid rules? I'm 54 with a GED worked 25 years in juvenile justice. Back knee problems, with a tramadic brain injury brain bleed. Migraines and depression. Will this take years to get me SSDI?
Evelyn, you can argue that the grid rules apply to you at any stage of your claim. One question you need to answer has to do with your past work. How is it classified in the DOT (see occupationalinfo.org/). What did you do? Is it an unskilled, semi-skilled or skilled job, and is it sedentary, light, medium or heavy? Are there any transferable skills? Secondly has your doctor limited you to sedentary or light work (remember the grids only apply to physical limitaitons, not depression or migraines). Look at my website www.gridrules.net for more about this.
Not enough information here. Has your doctor limited you to sedentary or light work, what is your education level, what is your work background. Go to www.gridrules.net and you will have a better idea.
I'll be 55 in October, and my whole idea is to avoid having this to ever go to a judge in the first place because that would imply that you got denied and had to wait up to two or three years, which depresses me even thinking about because I can't wait that long. I work my ass off my whole life sometimes three jobs 7 days awith two forms of arthritis from the age of 21 and three back injury and recently got my 4th compression fracture in my lower back which was the nail in the coffin. If they actually look at all of the evidence and an adequate amount of BACk medical records, which I was originally discouraged from providing,, I think my case would easily be cut and dry...
Do you have a lawyer? If not get one. You may need more medical tests also nerve conductions tests. Updated MRIs. Go to a GP and make sure you do not have any additional medical conditions like diabetes, High Blood pressure. Go to a psychiatrist and see him for depression ,ADHD. Have a Evaluation done to see what other disorders you have mentality. SS is tough to get. they want you to work. And if you can't you have t prove beyond a shadow of doubt you cannot work. Also do not lie about illnesses. If you have a problem that is fine. But faking a problem will be a nightmare for you. SS is cracking down on fraud. And most of the time it is a friend or family member or ex wife that turns you in. Hope this helps some.
@@MrJking065 I got a lawyer right up front, although it seems I have still done most of the work. My records were 2 " thick going back 30 yrs. Oregon Health Plan recently denied my doctor's request for an MRI so I can see a pain specialist, even though I recently got my 4th compression fracture in my low back with another 2 in my mid back along with arthritis and degenerative disc disease. I immediately appealed that. Add on joint problems in every joint for 30 yrs while working physically demanding jobs ....sometimes 2 or 3 at once, and reaching ...now 55.....with the inability to straighten my back if I bend at all for a few seconds, then it should be cut and dry, you would think. But I've heard the stories that they will usually deny you first in hopes you won't pursue it. My boys mother had to die at the age 50 before they approved her.....so my boys got that money.
I just finished a lawsuit. And was forced to sign , or nothing. I had a double disc replacement and was supposed to get back surgery but I wasn’t able. I was a Bering sea fisherman and got hurt . I have hardware in my neck and was supposed to get a back fusion but,wasn’t able because my prior company said that my back condition was pre existing injury, but my back was injured more in my accident! I have my documents from my surgery. But it can’t work to neck pain and lower back pain. And cant work and have no income coming in . What should I do?
Chris, based on what you say it seems obvious that you could not return to work as a fisherman. The question is - could you perform any other type of work? Imagine a simple, one or two step sit down type of job like packing pencils in a box. If your neck and back pain, and pain med side effects would make this impossible then you can and should pursue SSD. ssdanswers.com/contact/
Social Security Disability videos ....yes for two reasons (1) being that I can’t stand too long, and I have to position myself every ten minutes in a chair to deal with the pain management. And (2) because of the pain medicine that is proscribed to me does not really allow me to function on a 100% level....(hydrocodone) I have all my medical paperwork and X rays from the lawsuit . Thank you for responding means a lot. I’m in a lot of pain and my money is running dry.
There isn't really a site for that. Go to occupationalinfo.org. This is the DOT (Dictionary of Occupational Titles). Look for the SVP of your job. If it is 3 or higher (although usually 6 or higher in reality) you may have transferable skills. But that does not necessarily remove the grid rules because things like pain and med side effects can interfere with concentration and eliminate transferability.
@@ssdattorney I looked it up and my svp is 4. Should I reference this, along with the 202.06 grid rule? How will the adjudicators make the determination? I have pains and meds as well. Any success with a "4"?
@@finao8231 I would argue that (1) any skills you may have are unique to your industry and (2) any skills you may have acquired are so impaired by pain and medication side effects that they would not transfer to any jobs that exist in significant numbers in the national economy.
My benefits started on april 2016 but I started working on june 2016. I haven't finish my 9 trial periods, So i shouldn't worry about filling out the ssa 821 bk form right? They gave it to me when i went to the ss office to give them my pay stubs.
Thank you Jonathan for all the info. And video. I am a 58 year old woman and will turn 59 in April, I have osteoporosis heart disease, high blood pressure, cholesterol, and copd, I have been denied several times, had a stroke in 2012 still was denied, do you think I fit in the grid category, have my hearing in July 2019.
The definition of disability for SSDI and SSI is the same. If you were denied for medical reasons then an SSI claim will turn out the same as your SSDI claim.
Do you have a lawyer? If not get one. You may need more medical tests also nerve conductions tests. Updated MRIs. Go to a GP and make sure you do not have any additional medical conditions like diabetes, High Blood pressure. Go to a psychiatrist and see him for depression ,ADHD. Have a Evaluation done to see what other disorders you have mentality. SS is tough to get. they want you to work. And if you can't you have t prove beyond a shadow of doubt you cannot work. Also do not lie about illnesses. If you have a problem that is fine. But faking a problem will be a nightmare for you. SS is cracking down on fraud. And most of the time it is a friend or family member or ex wife that turns you in. Hope this helps some.
My wife is working yet but having a hard time doing he job. She has multiple documented disabilitys. Has been declared by Dr. And has a disabled mirror plack for parking. She is over 60. She is a cadd drafter. (Office work) How hard will it be for her to get ssi hard will it be
As long as she is working, she is, by definition not disabled. Assuming that she stops and she has strong medical support then at age 60 she would have an easier time than a younger person to win SSD.
Hi I have a question I just filed for Ssdi and I have only a tenth grade education and for the past twenty years I worked delivering appliances and had several back injuries and now even a neck injury where I have a bulge in my neck and have to turn my whole upper body to not use my neck because when I do it bulges out and my shoulders and back kills me for awhile. I have only been to patients first to see doctors and was put on light duty for a limited time and never seen a regular doctor because I never had health care and was wondering do I have a case under the grid rule? Thankyou
RIck, I think that the grids could possibly be a good argument. However I would say that at this point you may want to look into getting an MRI (you can find them for $300 to $400 in most cities) to document exactly what is going on with your neck and back. Then you need to establish treatment with an orthopedist (ideally) to get a firm diagnosis and treatment options. SSD judges will not assume vocational limitations without a firm diagnosis.
Hi again and Thankyou for responding back. I also wrote the same question that you replied to to the law office that filed my case and here is the answer I got back stating there are no grid rules. Social Security does have different grid rules for claimants, please keep in mind that age is also something that is considered in this matter. At the age of 55 it is harder to inquire new skills for jobs. Please also keep in mind that Social Security will not only be looking at your education they will also be looking at your work history your conditions and they must ensure that you meet their listings of what they consider to be disabled and they must confirm that you are unable to do the work that you used to do or any other work in the economy. I
I am 54 very close 55 my main problem is degenerative back but have several other problems I spent 15 years in work at convenient store/gas station with only GED what are my chance on grid rules?
Yes they can. Many adjudicators don't understand how they work so if you are making a grid argument at initial, make sure to tell SSA to evaluate your case under the grids and identify one or more specific grid rules that apply.
I’m having a hard time figuring it out through the grid. I have doctors who have written letters regarding pain and limitations (I believe) I have 15 years past work history working as a certified nurses aid. I I also have carpel tunnel, ddd, chronic pain and keratoconus(eye disease) I was a CNA and then earned my certificate in pharmacy tech but was unsuccessful in working as pharm tech.
The grid rules look at your age, your education, your work experience and whether you have been limited to sedentary or light work by your doctor. Anxiety, CFS, and non-physical conditions are not relevant to a grid rule analysis.
question I was 47 when I applied for ssi..now I'm 51 going to my second hearing after my claim came back from the federal level to go back to the judge again..what are my chances
Well, you can't use the grid rules. You would have to use the listing argument or a functional capacity argument. At 38 you will need a very solid medical record to win b/c SSA is very difficult to win for anyone younger than 50.
@@ssdattorney my neurology doctor wrote me a note in my chart saying he finds me medically disabled, I have a RFC test scheduled but problem is my pulmonary doctor wrote untrue statements in my medical file how do I correct it 🤷
Husband has 40 yr work history being a manual machinest.(1979-2018) and he has only worked for 2 companies. its a level 7 on skills. He is 58 and has history of back surgery,,hip replacement,stroke, crohns and bi polar, and is under pain management. Question, do you think he has a good chance of getting his disability on his first time? We are 2 months into when we first filed.
hi debble..i almost have the same work history and medical...but im 60 years old and been waiting 5 mo..also my first time and still waiting..hope your husband got it his first try..
The judge has to use the law. The law text clearly defines disability. Your history and your current situation are all factors. There is no age rule or grid rule.
Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge of the Grid Rule to us because I used it on my application when I applied for disability back in June 2019 and I just mentioned it on my application and I believe it was the reason I received such a quick decision on yesterday 01/17/2020 Thank you, God!!!
Great news - congratulations!
Awesome
I want to thank you for all your videos they really helped me and guess what I had a lady from Social Security call me to day and told me i got my SSI that is amazing i could not believe it she said my first check will be in the mail in ten days thanks for the help and i praise God for helping me . I am so excited i have been fighting for eight years but i quit one year so i did not get all that back pay just from March of this year til now but at least i got it . thanks again have a awesome day
I'm 57 and I have Arthritis in my Knees. I can only work Partime and even then it be hard. Filed in November 2017 was denied. Just put in for my Appeal recently. Thankyou for the Video. Very helpful. 👍😊
My pleasure. If you are over age 50, look at the grid rules. Otherwise you will need to argue for disability based on both a loss of physical capacity and because of pain that takes you off task for 20% of the day or longer.
I’m 54 and have diplopia and the judge did not even bother to use the grid rules for my case. These judges could care less about approving your case. The whole system is corrupt.
Having an attorney prepare your case and submit a pre-hearing brief laying out your theory of disability under the grid rules is the best route if your situation fits. It makes the judge's job easy!
Glasses can probably fix the problem. Unless you have other problems. Needing glasses will not get you disability. www.webmd.com/eye-health/double-vision-diplopia-causes-symptoms-diagnosis-treatment#1
Less money in there checking account
Thank you soo much youreally help me understand my situation and I am looking forward to my social security this really helped me I'm 61.
It's better at age 55 and on as you are treated as a senior citizen and rules are different
shoot_the_moon No, they are not different. I have seen cancer patients on their death bed be denied.
F them unfair grid rules!!!
👍👍👍👍👍the Best information, thank so much🙏🏼
You are welcome.
I work 35 years part I'm on medical leave
So is a vocational expert not relevant in a ssdi case IF some is 55-60 years old? Grid rules simple say yes or no and that’s it! No VE is involved?
Hi, Jonathan! I'm a 50yr old and on April 19,2022 I filled out an application for SSDI. I have a solid work history I have been working since 1987 and every year after that up until recently in January 2022. I also have earned the work credits needed to qualify. The last job I had I worked for them for 28 and a half years and the job was very physical and required constant overtime it literally aged me by 10yrs. Well now I have ended up with inflammatory arthritis in my lower back, both knees, both hands and in my right foot. I just came by your video on the grid rules and I lit up because it totally applies to my situation. I am high school educated with no transferable working skills other than driving. However since I'm just now hearing about the grid rule I failed to mission it in my application and I can't go back in to do so. I'd love to hear what you think?! Please?
I will be 57 years old at the end of December. I have zero job skills. No education beyond 12th grade high school. Lousy short term memory. Social phobia. (Full blown panic attacks in public.) (I know those last two aren't relevant to the grid rules. Even so, I have them.) The only physical problems that I have worth mentioning are a virtually zero grip strength in my right hand. (I don't know why, but I've had that most of my life.) And all the fingers of both hands are crooked rather than straight. (Possibly teratogenic in origin, but I don't know. They've been crooked going all the way back to early childhood.) I'm only 5 foot 1. Do you think I would have a better than average chance in getting disability based on the information that I have provided?
Would I fit the Grid Rules "50 and over" if the judge finds me sedentary but finds I can handle 10lbs frequently 20lbs occasionally? I can stand no longer than 2 hrs total a day but 20lbs being the concern.. Thanks
Isn't the grid rules for 55 and above, not 50 years of age?
Do you have to request the judge put you under grid rules or do they go by grid rules automatically if you fall within the guidelines ???
In theory the judge should know that the grid rules apply. My practice, however, is to point out that this theory of disability applies in my opening statement or pre-hearing brief.
Gary Tesla SSDI employees looked at me like i was crazy when I described the grid rules in both California and Florida.
i had a telephone hearing 5/5/2022 the only questions he asked me was my name, ss#, and birthday then said this looks like a grid rule case read a few things to the vocational expert she stated i couldn't stand for 6 hours and judge read disabled but did not rule, the whole phone call lasted 10 minutes. i and lawyer feels 99.9% confident on a fully favorable. im 62
do you take clients from out of state....Maryland?
At this point I am limiting my out of state work but I can make a referral for you if you'd like.
Hi Jonathan, I wish I could have had you as my Attorney. I worked my entire life and for the last 15 years I have been a nurse. I have cervical stenosis bulging disc and can't lift my right arm without shooting pain into my fingers and I drop things. I also have lumbar stenosis bulging disc. I have tumors growing on bottom of both feet which caused me a lot of pain. I am 58 will be 59 in 2 months. I had the worst experience today at my appeal with Judge. My lawyer did not make an opening statement and he just sat there while the judge was being horrible, I felt to me. For example the judge asked me about my medication side effects and I explained that I take gabapentin for pain and for seizures. He said "well, have you ever considered getting on a different medicine? Then he made me show him what kind of shoes I was wearing. I had on a nice pair of leather flats because I didn't think it was appropriate for me to wear tennis shoes. He gave me a smart allick remark again and said, well those are basically house slippers. He just said so many condescending things to me through the entire situation. I told him that my arm Right arm gets weak and I drop things and I can't pull up insulin and give shots anymore. He said, well can you move your left arm and I said yes your Honor, and he said well then, why can't you use your left arm and hands. I'm right handed. When it came time for the vocational expert to say what I can do, they listed 3 things which were bazaar, like a floor mopper, ticket taker and equipment washer. My lawyer just sat there and didn't say a word. I thought they could ONLY go back 15 years. My lawyer has the worst personality. The initial Lawyer who I hired, ran for circuit judge and won so now I have this one who I thought was going to be great, but he acts like he doesn't have to answer questions that I have. He never went over with me what to do or expect before today. I'm so upset. Please give me some insight into what you think. Are some judges just nasty and it doesn't mean anything? Thank you so much.
Patti, some judges are nasty and sarcastic but can still be fair and reasonable when deciding claims. However, it seems to me that every SSD judge ought to realize that you (the claimant) has been waiting for your day in court for 2 to 3 years and that you are deserving of respect and consideration. If a judge has become so cynical that he/she cannot be at least pleasant - regardless of the merits of a case - that judge ought to find a different line of work.
@@ssdattorney Thank you so much for taking the time to answer me. You are a truly kind and caring person. I was just stumped by the way he acted. I have a long work record, I have verification of my problems and it was as though he was deliberately trying to humiliate me. I tried to answer his questions honestly but I have waited 2 years, I used to live in a beautiful home by the lake and now I live in a tiny apartment. He could easily see that I was a hard worker. And my lawyer, didn't even say an opening statement or something about the crazy jobs like floor mopper, ticket taker and equipment washer. I'm not too proud to do any job for money, but I can't. I'm glad to hear that judges can be fair although they just feel everyone is lying. Thank you Jonathan. You are such a good man.
I just want to thank you for all your very insightful videos. I would like to know more about my own case from my attorney but haven't had any advise,tips, nor even a sit down meeting with exception of ten to fifteen minutes at my AlJ hearing Jan 2nd, 2018. I chose large law firm and basically had to rely on my paralegal? Im not sure what to expect, however im 58 with 02 at home, heart issues as well as mental and developed a heart murmur from stress according to Dr
Debbie, if you are on O2 at home that suggests a pretty significant cardiopulmonary problem.
Yes, I have been told, since my hearing that it is venous insuffiemcy. I was hospitalized twice for cellulitis but never told I had venous insuffiemcy. I also had pnuemonia and told I have heart murmur. Im still waiting decision
Thank You
Is it better to submit all medical information to ssdi from all treating doctors from the past ? Or just my intimidate treating doctor?
Any test you have done...from ALL DOCTORS. And if the tests are more than a year or 2 old have them done again. New fresh tests.
I just had my SSDI hearing. Im 56. The VE eliminated my past work but said my transferable skills apply to Teachers Aid 1 entry level. Full time meets the SGA.
After some exchanges with my lawyer about my part time work history and my limitations the VE said I could do the work part time. My lawyer pointed out that won't meet an SGA income.
The VE had no response and shrugged her shoulders then an awkward pause. The ALJ then quickly wrapped it up with some formal talk and it was all over in less than a half hour.
Does 'other work' have to meet SGA income? My lawyer was upbeat but said it's up to the judge.
I understand SGA to be full time work.
@@ssdattorney Thanks, it sounds promising but...I did collect unemployment after my last job. Without thinking /research I claimed my onset date was when my last job ended. I filed for SSDI a year after work ended, i didn't have my UI on my mind. Was dumb.
My lawyer was very negative on this at pre trial and expected to have problems going forward through the steps.
The ALJ did ask if I'd collected unemployment, asked if I had looked for easier work after my last job. Of course I answered honestly, yes. We made it through the steps, my lawyer really went to bat and it ended as described above.
Do you think if my UI had been a deal breaker the judge wouldn't have continued the steps to the end? Would he consider it later and deny me?
My lawyer said, after, the UI factor is in there but she was practically on cloud nine but still up to the judge.
I fall into many of the grid rules but yet social security still keeps denying me my work history is in the food service industry and two jobs in hvac and the work requirements I cant do any of them and I have several drs show in my medical records that I'm disabled and those records are over 13 inches thick those doctors are 3 pain doctors a primary doctor a chiropractor a mental health facility where I've seen several different therapists as well as 2 nurse practitioners and a doctor who prescribed me my medication for ADHD and depression and anxiety disorders and over a dozen physical therapy sessions where the last one did an aquatic exercise and I was in so much pain after doing the aquatic therapy I had to cancel half of those appointments
Joe, a couple of things to keep in mind. First, SSA considers chiropractic as "alternative medicine" and gives no weight to the opinion of a chiropractor. Second, the grid rules only apply to exertional (physical) medical issues. You can't use the grids for depression or anxiety. So the problem here may be that you are submitting evidence that does not satisfy SSA's requirements.
@@ssdattorney it's not the evidence not being submitted that's the problem the problem is with-in social security itself I'm in my fourth time going the process the first time when the so called vocational expert would bring up a point that would help my case my lawyer would start to elaborate on said point the judge told her not to speak unless she was specifically called upon by name the second judge never asked anything about my health problems but only asked about the fraternity I belong to the third judge acknowledged my health problems and acknowledged that my health problems were as bad as I was claiming but she still denied my case and all three judges never gave the reason why my case was denied and they have records not only from the chiropractor which ok they may look at as alternative treatments and they have records from my primary doctor who treated my joint issues for years and they have records from 3 different pain specialists who has or is currently treating my back and knee issues and they have records from a clinic that deals in mental health issues and depression and anxiety disorders which all of the records from all of those places including the chiropractor is well over 15 inches thick and growing thicker so my lawyers and I have given social security everything that they asked for plus some on past treatment and continued treatment
Dear Sir, Are SSDI Adjudicators permitted to use the grid rules? Many thanks.
Yes.
Yes, adjudicators consider the grid rules at step 5.
I'm 52 with a 11th grade education and I have a learning disabilities that I was in special education
The grid rules only apply if you have a physical impairment but your limited education would likely limit you to simple, entry-level jobs. If you have some other medical issues, you could have a good argument for disability.
Thanks for your video's , I'm still nervous but not as much .
Im on first appeal for SSDI I have a some college education and I’m 48. My profession before becoming disabled was property management. My mental limitations are bipolar 2 with chronic PTSD my physical limitations are blood clots in legs had surgery for back issues. IBS I just had X-ray for back and neck. I’m trying to get more evidence because of swelling in legs I can’t stand for more then 20 minutes and I can’t stand for more then 20 minutes. My meds make me tired or spacey. I’m constantly running to bathroom 🚽 what more do I need? I have more then enough work credits.
Are the grid rules applicable for SSI only (which I qualify for by being statutory blind by a wide margin), or also for SSDI that depends on work credits (which I don't have enough of and thereby don't qualify for SSDI)?
If I understand correctly, grid rules would only be applicable for the SSI determination and not for the SSDI. Correct?
2015 i had a decetomy c3,c4,c5.
Im 50 and 9th grade education.
I got a closed period back in 2015 when i was 46.
Now I applied again,i tried going back to work,i get eperdaral and pain management, phiyical therapy hurts to much,just to much.
I rather work I can make more money
Earl Gavinovich
Attempted to go to site& website neither working?!?
I didn't realize that by appealing a partially favorable decision that I was putting myself at risk. I applied for a reconsideration on the Dates I said Apr 25th 2017 they said Oct 16th 2017 my 55th bday. I filed late on the reconsideration. I have been getting my benefits for a year. Last week I got a call saying In Aug. I am having a hearing. I now don't want to go through with it. Since it is about 2 months away can I change my mind and agree with the decision? Please I'm now scared to death. I thought that I was only appealing the date. I didn't know I could loose everything!
Wow.. I too was bamified to the max when my attorney 'slained that one to me..I'd dial-a-lawyer immediately to see the extent of the damage you caused yourself simply by being direct and looking out for what's really already unofficially yours.
It's really a shame that after working so hard for so long your entire life, playing by the rules without taking the shortcuts and not living off the government ( welfare, food stamps, and medicaid ) that you almost have to pussy-foot around the system for fear of coming across greedy-When in fact all you're doing is standing up for yourself and the benefits that you've already paid unto the system since age 16.. because no one else is going to grow a pair and stand up for you.
Love your videos, does SSDI look at the grid rules on the first application?
They are supposed to but my experience has been that adjudicators don't really understand the grid rules so they mostly analyze by looking for listing level impairments. I tell applicants to reference the grid rules by exact number when they apply (assuming the grids are applicable) but I haven't gotten much feedback as to whether these folks are having success. Certainly there is no harm in trying.
Hi Jonathan Thanks for all the GREAT videos you make the're Very Very helpful understanding SSA
I'm a 56 year old widower of almost 2 years i've been a smoker since they told us it was good for us..... now i have trouble breathing i wheeze, and have shortness of breath making difficult to walk also i have diabetes & neuropathy in my feet and hands also making it difficult to walk but i have hardly any medical records...
Also i have hardly any work history in the last 10 years as my wife had a good paying job before she passed away at the age of 58.... Now i'm on Obama care (Medicaid) in my state Can i start collecting my wife's SS benefits at age 60 or age 50 if i qualify for Disability? And what's the chances of winning a case with hardly any medical records ....So what should i do?
You may have a claim for disabled widower's benefits using your late wife's earnings record. Based on what you write , it appears that you have a solid claim.
Thank you again Jonathan it took only 3.5 months until i got my 1st check you helped me so so much God Bless you sir
@@hcwcars1can you let me know when you applied how long did it take to process your application and did they ask you for doctor records and your spouse death certificate
@@nealjones84 yes you need all the doctors records and a death certificate
@@hcwcars1 l hope l get it just applied April 3 was denied for ssi due to income limits.l applied for disabled widow benefits l had heart stents put in twice l hope they approve me.when l checked online it said still processing lm 56 ant 2 be 57 out of work since march... did they write you approval letter or call your
How do I get the SSDI board to place me on the grid rules? I'm 54 with a GED worked 25 years in juvenile justice. Back knee problems, with a tramadic brain injury brain bleed. Migraines and depression. Will this take years to get me SSDI?
Evelyn, you can argue that the grid rules apply to you at any stage of your claim. One question you need to answer has to do with your past work. How is it classified in the DOT (see occupationalinfo.org/). What did you do? Is it an unskilled, semi-skilled or skilled job, and is it sedentary, light, medium or heavy? Are there any transferable skills? Secondly has your doctor limited you to sedentary or light work (remember the grids only apply to physical limitaitons, not depression or migraines). Look at my website www.gridrules.net for more about this.
51 years old with fibromyalgia and spinal stenosis among other things. Would I fit into the grid rules?
Not enough information here. Has your doctor limited you to sedentary or light work, what is your education level, what is your work background. Go to www.gridrules.net and you will have a better idea.
Will you still get back pd if they find me to be awarded the grid
I'll be 55 in October, and my whole idea is to avoid having this to ever go to a judge in the first place because that would imply that you got denied and had to wait up to two or three years, which depresses me even thinking about because I can't wait that long.
I work my ass off my whole life sometimes three jobs 7 days awith two forms of arthritis from the age of 21 and three back injury and recently got my 4th compression fracture in my lower back which was the nail in the coffin.
If they actually look at all of the evidence and an adequate amount of BACk medical records, which I was originally discouraged from providing,, I think my case would easily be cut and dry...
Do you have a lawyer? If not get one. You may need more medical tests also nerve conductions tests. Updated MRIs. Go to a GP and make sure you do not have any additional medical conditions like diabetes, High Blood pressure. Go to a psychiatrist and see him for depression ,ADHD. Have a Evaluation done to see what other disorders you have mentality. SS is tough to get. they want you to work. And if you can't you have t prove beyond a shadow of doubt you cannot work. Also do not lie about illnesses. If you have a problem that is fine. But faking a problem will be a nightmare for you. SS is cracking down on fraud. And most of the time it is a friend or family member or ex wife that turns you in. Hope this helps some.
@@MrJking065 I got a lawyer right up front, although it seems I have still done most of the work.
My records were 2 " thick going back 30 yrs. Oregon Health Plan recently denied my doctor's request for an MRI so I can see a pain specialist, even though I recently got my 4th compression fracture in my low back with another 2 in my mid back along with arthritis and degenerative disc disease. I immediately appealed that.
Add on joint problems in every joint for 30 yrs while working physically demanding jobs ....sometimes 2 or 3 at once, and reaching ...now 55.....with the inability to straighten my back if I bend at all for a few seconds, then it should be cut and dry, you would think. But I've heard the stories that they will usually deny you first in hopes you won't pursue it.
My boys mother had to die at the age 50 before they approved her.....so my boys got that money.
I just finished a lawsuit. And was forced to sign , or nothing. I had a double disc replacement and was supposed to get back surgery but I wasn’t able. I was a Bering sea fisherman and got hurt . I have hardware in my neck and was supposed to get a back fusion but,wasn’t able because my prior company said that my back condition was pre existing injury, but my back was injured more in my accident! I have my documents from my surgery. But it can’t work to neck pain and lower back pain. And cant work and have no income coming in . What should I do?
Chris, based on what you say it seems obvious that you could not return to work as a fisherman. The question is - could you perform any other type of work? Imagine a simple, one or two step sit down type of job like packing pencils in a box. If your neck and back pain, and pain med side effects would make this impossible then you can and should pursue SSD. ssdanswers.com/contact/
Social Security Disability videos ....yes for two reasons (1) being that I can’t stand too long, and I have to position myself every ten minutes in a chair to deal with the pain management. And (2) because of the pain medicine that is proscribed to me does not really allow me to function on a 100% level....(hydrocodone) I have all my medical paperwork and X rays from the lawsuit . Thank you for responding means a lot. I’m in a lot of pain and my money is running dry.
Thank you for everything. Before i apply, where or how can i find out if my job skills are transferable? Appreciate your help.
There isn't really a site for that. Go to occupationalinfo.org. This is the DOT (Dictionary of Occupational Titles). Look for the SVP of your job. If it is 3 or higher (although usually 6 or higher in reality) you may have transferable skills. But that does not necessarily remove the grid rules because things like pain and med side effects can interfere with concentration and eliminate transferability.
@@ssdattorney I looked it up and my svp is 4. Should I reference this, along with the 202.06 grid rule? How will the adjudicators make the determination? I have pains and meds as well. Any success with a "4"?
@@finao8231 I would argue that (1) any skills you may have are unique to your industry and (2) any skills you may have acquired are so impaired by pain and medication side effects that they would not transfer to any jobs that exist in significant numbers in the national economy.
My benefits started on april 2016 but I started working on june 2016. I haven't finish my 9 trial periods,
So i shouldn't worry about filling out the ssa 821 bk form right? They gave it to me when i went to the ss office to give them my pay stubs.
Thank you Jonathan for all the info. And video. I am a 58 year old woman and will turn 59 in April, I have osteoporosis heart disease, high blood pressure, cholesterol, and copd, I have been denied several times, had a stroke in 2012 still was denied, do you think I fit in the grid category, have my hearing in July 2019.
deborah knightfitzgerald You are beyond the grid rules. You are disabled. SSDI needs overhauled. THAT is the problem.
I was denied SSDI, can I still get SSI? I'm 50 and many health issues. 8th grade education?
The definition of disability for SSDI and SSI is the same. If you were denied for medical reasons then an SSI claim will turn out the same as your SSDI claim.
Do you have a lawyer? If not get one. You may need more medical tests also nerve conductions tests. Updated MRIs. Go to a GP and make sure you do not have any additional medical conditions like diabetes, High Blood pressure. Go to a psychiatrist and see him for depression ,ADHD. Have a Evaluation done to see what other disorders you have mentality. SS is tough to get. they want you to work. And if you can't you have t prove beyond a shadow of doubt you cannot work. Also do not lie about illnesses. If you have a problem that is fine. But faking a problem will be a nightmare for you. SS is cracking down on fraud. And most of the time it is a friend or family member or ex wife that turns you in. Hope this helps some.
Please
Dos the grid rules apply when the time to deside the case ?
Or from day one you got disable
I applyed I was 53
Now in my reconsedration I am 55
My wife is working yet but having a hard time doing he job. She has multiple documented disabilitys. Has been declared by Dr. And has a disabled mirror plack for parking. She is over 60. She is a cadd drafter. (Office work) How hard will it be for her to get ssi hard will it be
As long as she is working, she is, by definition not disabled. Assuming that she stops and she has strong medical support then at age 60 she would have an easier time than a younger person to win SSD.
Hi I have a question I just filed for Ssdi and I have only a tenth grade education and for the past twenty years I worked delivering appliances and had several back injuries and now even a neck injury where I have a bulge in my neck and have to turn my whole upper body to not use my neck because when I do it bulges out and my shoulders and back kills me for awhile. I have only been to patients first to see doctors and was put on light duty for a limited time and never seen a regular doctor because I never had health care and was wondering do I have a case under the grid rule? Thankyou
RIck, I think that the grids could possibly be a good argument. However I would say that at this point you may want to look into getting an MRI (you can find them for $300 to $400 in most cities) to document exactly what is going on with your neck and back. Then you need to establish treatment with an orthopedist (ideally) to get a firm diagnosis and treatment options. SSD judges will not assume vocational limitations without a firm diagnosis.
Hi again and Thankyou for responding back. I also wrote the same question that you replied to to the law office that filed my case and here is the answer I got back stating there are no grid rules.
Social Security does have different grid rules for claimants, please keep in mind that age is also something that is considered in this matter. At the age of 55 it is harder to inquire new skills for jobs. Please also keep in mind that Social Security will not only be looking at your education they will also be looking at your work history your conditions and they must ensure that you meet their listings of what they consider to be disabled and they must confirm that you are unable to do the work that you used to do or any other work in the economy. I
I am 54 very close 55 my main problem is degenerative back but have several other problems I spent 15 years in work at convenient store/gas station with only GED what are my chance on grid rules?
Assuming your medical record is solid, I think the grid rule argument is a good one.
Do the grid rules come into play at the in initial stage? I'm 57 with a subchondral insuffiency fracture of the knee. How's my case look?
Yes they can. Many adjudicators don't understand how they work so if you are making a grid argument at initial, make sure to tell SSA to evaluate your case under the grids and identify one or more specific grid rules that apply.
I’m having a hard time figuring it out through the grid.
I have doctors who have written letters regarding pain and limitations (I believe)
I have 15 years past work history working as a certified nurses aid. I
I also have carpel tunnel, ddd, chronic pain and keratoconus(eye disease)
I was a CNA and then earned my certificate in pharmacy tech but was unsuccessful in working as pharm tech.
The grid rules look at your age, your education, your work experience and whether you have been limited to sedentary or light work by your doctor. Anxiety, CFS, and non-physical conditions are not relevant to a grid rule analysis.
how much do SSA pay
It depends on how much you paid in when you were working.
question I was 47 when I applied for ssi..now I'm 51 going to my second hearing after my claim came back from the federal level to go back to the judge again..what are my chances
Did you get your disability
Is the age of 50 a hard and fast rule? I'm 49 and will be 50 next year in April of 2021. Would a judge apply GRID to me?
I have asked judges to use the "grid framework" to apply the grids to clients who were 49+
What about fibromyalgia and ddd, spinal stenosis. ?
It is very difficult to win with fibro. In my opinion your stronger argument would be with the stenosis and the DDD.
Does this grid rules apply in California also
Yes, SSD is a national program.
Well I'm not 50 I'm only 38 but my doctor has determined that I can't work 🤷 what is the next best step for me to take
Well, you can't use the grid rules. You would have to use the listing argument or a functional capacity argument. At 38 you will need a very solid medical record to win b/c SSA is very difficult to win for anyone younger than 50.
@@ssdattorney my neurology doctor wrote me a note in my chart saying he finds me medically disabled, I have a RFC test scheduled but problem is my pulmonary doctor wrote untrue statements in my medical file how do I correct it 🤷
@@ssdattorney I have been diagnosed with crps 1&2
Husband has 40 yr work history being a manual machinest.(1979-2018) and he has only worked for 2 companies. its a level 7 on skills. He is 58 and has history of back surgery,,hip replacement,stroke, crohns and bi polar, and is under pain management. Question, do you think he has a good chance of getting his disability on his first time? We are 2 months into when we first filed.
I never like to predict if the State Agency would approve. It sounds like he has enough medical evidence to get approved but....
hi debble..i almost have the same work history and medical...but im 60 years old and been waiting 5 mo..also my first time and still waiting..hope your husband got it his first try..
The judge has to use the law. The law text clearly defines disability. Your history and your current situation are all factors. There is no age rule or grid rule.
Age and the grid rules (medical/vocational rules) are a common method in making a determination of disability in SSDI cases.
Iàm. On ssi I. Got à $ 6
what if i have severe stenosis, can i get approved for that?
It depends on whether your stenosis prevents you from performing the tasks of a simple, entry-level job.
Social Security Disability videos Im 60....with osteoarthritis back shoulder .... shots...in back..and a lot more...