Thanks Mdr,
But I do know of a few things concerning SSA. They are overworked. Many apply for disability not knowing or caring to read about it. Alot of people are propagating falicies. Before you applied how many friends/family gave you advice that just plain wrong? So, now we have people who are pregnant, people with sprang wrists and ankles, applying to disability.

Just an application right? WRONG. SSA examiners are required by law to put as much research into EVERY case like getting medical records, talking to witnesses, etc. That is why people wait soooo long for the initial rejection. Because of the workload, examiners only approve those cases that are indeed disabled, ie. blind, completely wheelchair bound, or very sick and bedridden. But the approval rate for initial applications are 40%. Redetermination 20%.

The appeal proccess to see an ALJ is so long because they use the court system. Disability cases get to the back burner due to criminal hearings must take precedence because they, by law, have to have a speedy trial within a set time period. Or they go free.

Money for the SSA is secured for now. The funds are secured by U.S. Treasury Bonds. It is separate from funds delivered for international help. Most of that comes from the general fund, ie. income taxes, I believe.

So, we get stuck by ignorant people. Stuck by the justice system. The system itself is filled with flaws. Most take two years to get disability. Meanwhile, it takes them to the poor house, can't work, no money, high medical bills. Then medicare kicks in two years later. Laughable. Who needs medicare more? Disabled people. There are so many people on disability who can't afford medications or health care and can't get state help due to disability income is just above the limit.

Well, that's my ranting for the night. I like to watch people with disabled placards get into their cars. Most are not disabled. Most placards are stolen and if caught $500 fine in WA. People still get caught. Some people are just plain stupid.