Can we get disability?

Question

My son and I were both denied health insurance because of pre-existing conditions. He is 8 and suffers from deppression. I have Chiari Malformation. ( Brain, Spinal, Nervous System disorder) I was denied SSI about a year ago. Should I refile and also file for my son? Any suggestions on getting it done quickly? We NEED insurance !!

Answer 1

Are you talking about a mandatory state disability program, a private disability policy, or social security disability?  

Were you denied social security income, or social security DISABILITY income?  What was the reason for the denial?

Sure you can file, for you and your son.  If you have paid in enough quarters, AND you're totally, permanently disabled, unable to work any occupation, according to your doctor, and have been that way at least two years, you might qualify.  

It's HARD to get on SSDI.  You need to :   1. be eligible, by having paid into the system long enough, or be a minor disabled child of someone who's paid into the system - and mental health issues don't qualify   2.  be permanently, totally disabled, unable to work any job  and 3.  have been disabled totally, for at least two years.  

If you don't qualify for Medicaid, that indicates to me that SOMEONE is working.  Since they CAN work, presuming that health insurance isn't available through their job, they need to get a different job, with health insurance benefits.

Answer 2

You need to file an appeal for yourself for SSI to see if they will re-evaluated your condition.

I'm not sure about your son because you said he was denied coverage from a health insurance company because of his pre-existing condition. If his situation is with an insurance company, you can appeal but they stick by the regulations written into their policies so it is unlikely they would change their decision.

Answer 3

In the mean time apply for medi-cal or your state health welfare program.   You need to appeal the SSI decision.  Call Social Security Admin for help or call an attorney to help you appeal their decision.  There are attorneys that specialize in that area.   You don't have to pay them either.  I think they get a piece of your settlement if you win.

But you have to check with them on that.   And your son should apply for SSI too.  Even minors can get it.

Answer 4

Usually if you are over the guidelines for medicaid, most states also offer coverage for kids and familes that you pay premiums for based on the income. Look at your states medicaid site to see if your state offers this.