Pasta Salad, Patience & Paperwork: What to Expect After You Apply for Disability
By Debra Shifrin, a.k.a. Nana | Nana’s Nuggets – September Edition
Hi everyone! I’m Debra Shifrin, a disability lawyer, momma of two, grandma of four, and someone who loves a comforting recipe that teaches a life lesson.
This month in the kitchen, we’re making a hearty fall pasta salad, loaded with greens, roasted veggies, and a crunchy bite. And while we’re cooking, I want to talk to you about something so many of our clients struggle with: what happens after you apply for disability benefits… and how to stay calm during the wait.
The Recipe: Fall Pasta Salad with Spinach, Roasted Broccoli & Mandarins
This pasta salad is colorful, nutrient-packed, and great for meal prepping ahead. And just like your disability case, it requires patience and prep.
Ingredients:
- 1 box of pasta (any kind you like—farfalle or penne works well)
- 1 head of broccoli or a bag of broccoli florets
- Fresh spinach
- 1 can of mandarin oranges (drained)
- Handful of cashews
- Sesame oil (for roasting)
- Dressing of ⅓ cup soy sauce, ⅓ cup sesame oil, ⅓ cup rice wine vinegar and other seasonings of your choice, I like ginger and garlic - Combine and Mix in a bottle
Instructions:
- Boil the pasta until al dente. Drain and cool.
- While that’s cooking, steam or roast the broccoli (I love roasting with sesame oil for flavor).
- Toss pasta, broccoli, spinach, mandarins, and cashews together. Add the dressing.
Nana’s Tip: This dish tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours; just like some things in life, it needs time to come together.
What Happens After You Apply for Disability?
Now, let’s talk real. Submitting your application to Social Security is a big step, but it’s just the beginning.
Here’s what to expect:
1. The Waiting Period
You may not hear anything for weeks or even months. This is normal, but it doesn’t make it any easier. That’s why you need to keep track of all mail from SSA and stay alert for any follow-up requests.
2. Follow-Up Forms or Appointments
You might be asked to complete more paperwork or go to a consultative exam. It’s important to respond to these requests right away.
3. No News ≠ Bad News
Just because you don’t hear anything doesn’t mean you’ve been denied. Like this pasta salad, some things just need time to “marinate” behind the scenes before you see results.
What You Can Do While You Wait
- Save every letter from Social Security
- Let your attorney or advocate know if you receive forms or notices
- Keep attending your medical appointments and document your care
- Stay organized in case SSA asks for updated information
Just like this salad needs boiled pasta, roasted veggies, and cooling time; your case needs layers, patience, and preparation.
Want to Know If You Might Qualify?
If you haven’t applied yet, or aren’t sure if you qualify, we’ve made it super easy.
Take our 2-minute survey to find out. Once you complete it, someone from our intake team will give you a call to talk through your situation and next steps.
Whether you’ve already applied, getting started or got denied, we’ll meet you right where you are.
Nana’s Final Nugget of Wisdom
Disability claims aren’t quick fixes. They’re like a recipe; measured, timed, and layered. If you rush it or skip a step, it won’t turn out right. But if you wait, prepare, and follow through? You’ll get something truly nourishing.
Hang in there. We’re with you.
Your Next Steps
Need help keeping your documents or SSA mail organized? Take the 2-minute survey to book a free case review.
Questions about your case? We’re just a message away.
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