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Rob's message: Caution !!! I was retired by "Uncle" from a civil service position and have >ended up financially devistated .... After 18 years, I recieve a whopping >retirement that is less than $200.00 per month - Retirement - early or otherwise - is not the same as Social Security Disability. I believe the current law you can work up to $18,000 with tax consequences. And after that it is not dollar for dollar. This $200 should be in addition to your social security unless Civil Service has some other rules. In my case the feds do not subtract retirement from social security. One is taxable and the other is not - or portions thereof (I don't keep track of this, an accountant does). But I file my taxes and state my sources of incomes and have done so for years. No problem. My Union sends me a form every year about disability etc., etc. All sources of income are disclosed. >You Do Not Get BOTH even though you have paid into both !!! I do get BOTH! But again, Civil Service may be another story. But if you had CS only 18 years, perhaps you have some social security previous to that. You can check that easy enough - forms at the Post Office. The point that this Dis-Ease becomes a disability is determined by the patient. I totally agree. When one feels they can no longer be productive for their employer it is time to quit and re-evaluate lifestyles etc. But this doesn't mean you stop living. JUST DO IT! Don't let the reports confuse you, it's really not that difficult - just go in to Social Security and apply. They'll walk you through it. If denied, then appeal. With your doctor's documentation and confirmation that you are having difficulty, you should be set to go. I know it is tough and pride-wrenching to have to go through this - but I got over it real fast. Especially after my re-troactive check. Now I can get on with my life - and two pallidotomies later.... I'm doing pretty good and looking forward to the summer work around the "radon ranch" - any many more naps. ********************************** Phil's Message to George, Good info Phil. The above from me is only my experience. I never had to see an attorney, or appeal. I feel very fortunate to have the financial resources that I do - otherwise I'd be big trouble. Burdette E. Anderson PD Dx1985/now 51.9 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn