I got off SSI that professionals got me on when I was 18. I worked part-time on it toward the end and new medication gave me confidence, I wanted full-time work (which they let you do for a year to prove yourself without hurting SSI eligibility). I got a low-level full-time job at the University because "they can't fire you" (thanks) and held it more than a year but couldn't long-term. So now, no SSI and disability people can't see and now my disability qualifies for SSI except that my husband works, so I just get Medicare. I have to work more private-sector jobs because I didn't pay into Social Security at the University and won't get SS if I don't get all my credits in. I've burned so many bridges with jobs, and disabilities make the idea of working a private-sector job seem a huge hurdle. Especially since it's only my husband's income that prevents me from receiving a check for which I otherwise qualify. SSDI is out, I haven't worked private sector enough. This may not seem to be an issue because I actually have a spouse working, but the facts are that we aren't getting any younger and I will not survive long on what would be left if he died. Life. Be very careful. It's a double-edged sword. I was too proud to let the government "take care of me", but couldn't hold up my end.
24 Jul 2016, 3:46 pm
