Legal Question in Social Security Law in Pennsylvania

when can you expect payment?

I have heard that it takes a year for benefits for someone who is a recovering,bi-polar alcoholic. He is living at a recovery home where he cannot afford the rent. he cannot afford a therepist or any medication.he is working for this foundation-home for $6.00 an hour,which they take immediately for rent-$1oo.oo a week- He is becoming despondent and I am Afraid he is going to crash,especially without his medication.


Asked on 8/31/06, 6:59 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Randall Selagy F. Randall Selagy, P.C.

Re: when can you expect payment?

Don't expect payment until you first prove that are disabled.

To receive an award of Social Security disability or SSI benefits, you must prove, by substantial medical evidence, how your impairments prevent you from working full time on a regular basis at any type of employment.

Age and education may effect this.

The initial application usually takes 3-4 months. If you are denied, you can ask for a Hearing, which can take up to 18 months to schedule. If you are denied again, you can ask for a review by the Appeals Council. That can take 1-2 years. If you are denied again, you can sue in Federal Court - which can take more than one year.

Your friend needs to concentrate on obtaining medicaid health insurance (& prescription drug benefits) and getting proper treatment. He needs medical sources to explain not just his diagnoses but also how they prevents him from working.

So if he is working, and not getting treatment, (i.e. not creating a written medical record), he will have a long wait.

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Answered on 8/31/06, 9:03 pm


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