Slaying the Dragon:  How to Write a Winning SSDI Application

By Laurie Long
1/2003

When he decided to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), everyone told Grant Phillips, “You’re going to have to try and try and try.”  So Grant called Alan Wittenberg at the MS Association and Alan waded into the fray, armed with information from the SSDI workshops that the MSA sponsors with assistance from Rich and Rebecca Pursley and SSDI attorney Peter McKee.  The outcome?  “It went through with flying colors,” said Grant, “because we took the time and did it the right way.”

Clarinda Patterson agrees.  “If you don’t do the right steps with someone like Alan or Rebecca, you probably won’t get it.”  Clarinda also used the information from the SSDI workshop video, along with Alan and her family’s assistance.  “We got it the first try.  I just couldn’t believe it!”

For retired teacher Rebecca Pursley, who successfully applied for SSDI in 1995, helping with this workshop was a way to give back.  “The MSA really helped me when I was first diagnosed, and I wanted to return the favor.” Assisting others with their applications grew from a volunteer position into a crusade.  Rebecca and her husband, Rich, have literally written the book on how to create a successful SSDI application.  They have published their own “SSDI Tutor” to complement the information given out by Peter McKee at the workshops.  “We wanted to create something in plain English that everyone could understand and use,” Rebecca explains.

How good are the Tutor and the workshop?  Rich and Rebecca estimate that 90 - 95% of the people that they have helped and who “take the process seriously” have been approved.  The year 2000 statistics for the U.S. show that over 70% of people who applied for Social Security were denied.  Taking the process seriously, Rebecca explains, is treating the application like a college course:  you have to study, there is homework to do, and it involves reading, writing and researching before you are ready.  “Do not call the SSDI before going through these steps!” Rebecca states.  “You wouldn’t walk up to the professor on the first day of class and ask to take the final exam ‘cold,’ so why would you start the application process before you knew what was needed?”

When asked about the most important aspects of the process, Rebecca replies, “Gathering documentation is crucial!  You will need copies of lab work, doctor’s testimonials, details of your employment history and more.  Also, the questions are often vague,” she explains, “but your answers must be specific and complete!” 

The good news is you don’t have to do this by yourself.  The MSA holds SSDI workshops 3-4 times a year, with Rebecca and attorney Peter McKee to help guide folks through the application process.  Each workshop is also videotaped for those who are unable to attend.  In addition to the video and other materials, Rebecca and trained MSA SSDI volunteers are available for consultation.  Rich and Rebecca are also currently working on an electronic version of their Tutor, which will allow people to bring up each section with explanations and sample answers to assist them.  Applicants will be able to fill it out, and print a completed copy to present to the Social Security Office.  They hope to have a version ready for the Internet soon.

Rebecca also points out, “If you anticipate filing an application in the next year or so, do not wait to sign up for the workshop.  Attend one as soon as possible so that you can start getting ready and begin documenting now!  It’s in your best interest to acquaint yourself with the work required to accomplish this.”  As Rebecca explains, “It takes time, effort, dedication and lots of chocolate, but you don’t have to do it alone!”

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The Multiple Sclerosis Association of King County
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