I have SSDI as well as long term disability insurance from my previous employer, so I lucked out on that one. I got SSDI based on my declining pulmonary function as well as my ability to do things around the house even though the docs really didn't have a definitive diagnosis at the time. They looked at my ABG's, my declining PFT's, my need for O2 as well as BiPAP use. I was found favorable when I was 31 years old, first try without a lawyer. I will offer good advice to those considering applying for SSDI, get copies of all medical records..any tests that are done, get copies. When you fill out the application, they will ask how you are able to do your day to day activities...Make sure you are specific, in my case, I was unable to drive so my family did my driving, showering left my oxygenation in the toilet, housework was difficult...as I said, if your breathing impairs anything, write it down and be very specific.
SSDI does not consider your income or your husbands, SSI on the other hand does consider income levels. When I applied to SSDI, I was never asked what I made prior to my final days of work or asked how much my then husband made. When I won, the amount was calculated based on what I put into the system.
Once you get SSDI, you wait 2 years to get Medicare coverage, unless you have been fighting for years and exceeded the 2 years in which case you would get Medicare right away...unfortunately, I know of some people who have appealed their case for over 5 years. I was lucky to be found favorable within 3 months of applying.
Each case is different, the degree of impairments are different with each person. They do go by the Blue book, but not just that. I fortunately had a great caseworker who was excellent with helping me with the process. It is also good to have excellent doctors who are willing to put their all into your application. Just because they are sent requisitions to be filled out regarding your medical issues, it doesn't mean that they will. I fortunately had good docs who were very meticulous with documentation and I owe alot to them. It is good to check up on the docs that will be responsible for your application.
I hope I have helped and not confused you. Hugs, Jenn <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0">