I was turned down twice, but you can't give up. I got a legal firm. They don't charge unless you win. It took three years for me to get it. I was living in CA at the time. There is so much paperwork and if you miss one thing, they throw it out. The legal firm does all of that. I thought it was worth it to have them. I don't know about your other question regarding the amount they go by. If you want the name of who I used, you can email me at (Email address can only be seen by the question and answer creators) and I can send it to you. They have lawyers all over the US.

I know if you were married more than 10 years you may be able to get more money. If your ex's benefits are higher they make up the difference. You cannot be remarried. great info att ss.gov

As to actually filing, the ss website actually speaks directly to RA. It's a process. a long one

I have a friend who got on SSI early in her debilitating, incurable disease (dermatomyositis). She's married and her husband makes a good living. I don't know if SS disability is the same thing as SSI, but her SSI pays for her her medical treatment. Maybe you would qualify for both--?? I do believe it's a long, drawn out process for SS disability, but I would hope that SSI would be faster since it involves medical certification of disease. It's worth looking into--you can find info online. Best wishes to you!

I went on ss disability at 50 on my own earnings. A visit to the ss office could tell you which way would be best. I represented myself, too tight to pay legal service however they may get it through sooner. Took me 3 yrs. Good luck to you.

I collect Social Security because I am retired. I never thought about going on a disability when I was below retirement age. I probably should have though.