Tired of suckling the SSDI Tit

[Dan J.]

OK here goes...

I have been drawing SSDI since July 2003. I received a Ticket To Work shortly after my SSDI payments started went through TN Dept of Human Services Dept of Vocational Rehabilitation. I went through a 13 week course to study for my State of TN Debt Collectors license. Which I received in  Jan 2004. For a while I worked in a small office for the law firm I currently working for until the moved me to my home. I work from home 6 days a week Monday/Thursday 8:00 AM-2:00PM & then from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, Fridays 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM & Saturdays from 8:00am to 2:00 PM. I am only paid by commission, if a debtor doesn't pay their bill, I don't get paid. I work my ass off for my employer but I can't seem to get anyone to make a direct payment to me or if they make a payment arrangement they don't honor the agreement. When I call to remind debtors of the balance due I get cussed out, screamed at or they just hang up on me. I have been told by several debtors that I am the nicest debtor collector they have ever had call them. I think my 'southern accent' works against me when I try to collect. I reopened my case with TN Voc Rehab in March of 2006.  My case work promised me that she would find me a job that would pay me a hourly wage. I'm still waiting for that job.  My case worker does not return my phone calls. I call her 3 times a week & I never get a response. I am seriously considering writing my state & federal elected congressman, the governor & the director of Vocational Rehabilitation about the lack of service I have received since reopening my voc rehab case. I feel like they put me off because I am living with AIDS. I want to work, earn my keep & get off disability. My local ASO is having a benefits Seminar on Aug 10th. This is through West TN Legal Services. I am going to discuss this matter with my case worker & see if they can help me get some action done on my behalf.  Maybe they have a job placement program they can help me with, but as far as I know they don't. Sorry for the rant, but this has been going on for a long time & I'm really starting to get tired of the whole mess.  Any advice or input that someone can chime in with would be greatly appreciated.

Dan

[AustinWesley]

OK here goes...

I have been drawing SSDI since July 2003. I received a Ticket To Work shortly after my SSDI payments started went through TN Dept of Human Services Dept of Vocational Rehabilitation. I went through a 13 week course to study for my State of TN Debt Collectors license. Which I received in  Jan 2004. For a while I worked in a small office for the law firm I currently working for until the moved me to my home. I work from home 6 days a week Monday/Thursday 8:00 AM-2:00PM & then from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, Fridays 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM & Saturdays from 8:00am to 2:00 PM. I am only paid by commission, if a debtor doesn't pay their bill, I don't get paid. I work my ass off for my employer but I can't seem to get anyone to make a direct payment to me or if they make a payment arrangement they don't honor the agreement. When I call to remind debtors of the balance due I get cussed out, screamed at or they just hang up on me. I have been told by several debtors that I am the nicest debtor collector they have ever had call them. I think my 'southern accent' works against me when I try to collect. I reopened my case with TN Voc Rehab in March of 2006.  My case work promised me that she would find me a job that would pay me a hourly wage. I'm still waiting for that job.  My case worker does not return my phone calls. I call her 3 times a week & I never get a response. I am seriously considering writing my state & federal elected congressman, the governor & the director of Vocational Rehabilitation about the lack of service I have received since reopening my voc rehab case. I feel like they put me off because I am living with AIDS. I want to work, earn my keep & get off disability. My local ASO is having a benefits Seminar on Aug 10th. This is through West TN Legal Services. I am going to discuss this matter with my case worker & see if they can help me get some action done on my behalf.  Maybe they have a job placement program they can help me with, but as far as I know they don't. Sorry for the rant, but this has been going on for a long time & I'm really starting to get tired of the whole mess.  Any advice or input that someone can chime in with would be greatly appreciated.

Dan

Hey Dan,

I don't want to sound harsh, but finding you a job is your responsibility not your case managers and I see NO benefit in complaining.  You may potentially burn bridges for your future!

It's great that you took a chance and tried this career approach, but if it's not working then try something else.   

People can help you, but you have to work at helping yourself too.

Good luck to you!

Wesley

[Dachshund]

My friend Michael who has been poz for twenty years and on disabilty decided he was bored and wanted to work. He did use the services provided to finally complete his last two years of college. After that he went out and applied for jobs on his own...his only real requirement was health insurance with no pre-existing clause. It took about eight months but he finally landed a computer geek job with FedEx and couldn't be happier.

I thought I remember you posting about a job they offered you through this program last year. Whatever happened there? Maybe it is still available? Good luck.

[Dan J.]

Hey Dan,

I don't want to sound harsh, but finding you a job is your responsibility not your case managers and I see NO benefit in complaining.  You may potentially burn bridges for your future!

It's great that you took a chance and tried this career approach, but if it's not working then try something else.   

People can help you, but you have to work at helping yourself too.

Good luck to you!

Wesley

It is the job of the case manager with Vocational Rehab to help me find suitable emplyment. She has done NOTHING for me since I reopened my Voc Rehab case. They brush me off because I have the stigma of AIDS attached to myself. I wanted to go back to school  & become a medical  lab Technician but my Voc Rehab counsilors supervisor told me I couldn't do that because i'm HIV + She wanted to provide her with somesort of proof that HIV+ people can work in a medical setting. I told her I personally know HIV+ nurses that are still working in thir chosen profession. She didn't believe me.

Hal, I took the job @ the bank but at the time they wanted me to go FULL time but  I wasn't ready to give up SSDI/Medicare. Now I am ready, willing and able to have a real job with real benefits again.

[RapidRod]

Dan, it would be nice to be able to get a job. It's just nothing I can do in my situation and it's beyond my control. I hope things work out for you.

[AustinWesley]

It is the job of the case manager with Vocational Rehab to help me find suitable employment. She has done NOTHING for me since I reopened my Voc Rehab case. They brush me off because I have the stigma of AIDS attached to myself. I wanted to go back to school  & become a medical  lab Technician but my Voc Rehab counsilors supervisor told me I couldn't do that because i'm HIV + She wanted to provide her with somesort of proof that HIV+ people can work in a medical setting. I told her I personally know HIV+ nurses that are still working in thir chosen profession. She didn't believe me.

Hal, I took the job @ the bank but at the time they wanted me to go FULL time but  I wasn't ready to give up SSDI/Medicare. Now I am ready, willing and able to have a real job with real benefits again.

Hey Dan,

I think it's very comendable that you are wanting to start a new career.   Clearly, this lady is ill informed and knows nothing about the law.   I do understand your frustration with that.

Have you tried seeking employment assistance with a local work force organization?   Many of these have specialized people who strictly deal with people with disabilities.   

Sometimes ASO staff aren't aware of all the opportunities available and like anyone they can become apathetic with their own jobs.   I'd encourage you to put your energy and ambition in a new direction and avoid an altercation with her.   I know of someone here who did complain about an ASO staff person and all he accomplished was shooting himself in the foot.   Many are reluctant to help him now.   

Best wishes!

Wesley

[Oceanbeach]

Hey Dan,

I have also been disapointed with the Ticket to Work program.  Signed up immediately becvause in their words thetre were over 4 million people on disability and this was an attempt to help those of us who could, return to work.  I got my "Ticket to Work" on my Birthday month and started making calls.  That was at least 4 years ago.  Ticket to work did not and still does not offer any job placement services.

With the Re-Entry Task Force, I called the 4 Sonoma County offices who help with resume services under the Ticket to Work Program.  They did not attend our public gathering of people living with HIV.  SonomaJobs, Goodwill and JobLink did, along with the Positive Resource Center of San Francisco.

Positive Resource Center www.positiveresource.org can not accept more than 3 persons at a time from any other county because of funding and availability.  Sonoma County did offer a van at no cost to the client patients at no charge.  SonomaJobs, Goodwill, and JobLink, like most non-profits had meetings to [plan meetings, to talk about meetings.  Half of our audience went to meet with these organizations and are still looking for work.  Have the best day
Michael
(who would say, "tired of sucking the SSDI cock, but there is not one they know about")   

[Ann]

Wes,

Why shouldn't Dan complain about his case worker - she's obviously not doing the job she's paid for.

Dan, maybe you could go for HER job. You're probably better qualified! Good luck with going after her. I really get riled with people who work in this type of job who don't actuall "work". It's sickening.

Ann

[BT65]

Hey, I understand the frustration of your caseworker not calling you back.  Here in Indiana, they privatized the social services offices, which was such an assanine thing to do.  But that's Mitch Daniels for ya.  Now when someone calls welfare, they don't know if they're talking to a computer or somebody in the frickin' Bahamas! 
   I am currently going to school through voc. rehab.  I don't know why your voc. rehab counselor wouldn't let you go to school.  Lots of positive people work in the medical field.  That's not what I'm going for, but, hey, whatever will make you happy.  I, however, am not going to look for full-time work when I graduate because I can't afford to lose Medicare Part D.  Hence, I will only be working as much as social security allows before cutting me off.  Good luck with your situation.  It pisses me off also, like Ann, when people in social service jobs don't do any social service!  Keep fighting!
Betty

[JPinLA]

I don't have any good advice but I can say that your caseworker is not properly doing her job,  the slag.  I join the chorus that it completely twists my tit when people in social services do not and cannot possibly muster any form of compassion and humanity required for such positions.

Don't lay off..keep at it..

JP

[AustinWesley]

Wes,

Why shouldn't Dan complain about his case worker - she's obviously not doing the job she's paid for.

Dan, maybe you could go for HER job. You're probably better qualified! Good luck with going after her. I really get riled with people who work in this type of job who don't actuall "work". It's sickening.

Ann

Hey Ann,

Well, basically what I'm saying is you get more bees with honey.    I've got friends who work for various ASO's and believe me they get frustrated and side with fellow employees more often than not.

I just don't think filing a huge complaint is very productive.   

Dan, is there perhaps another counselor who can help you there?   Maybe switching to a different person that is brighter might be an option?

Wesley

[Grinch]

It sounds like you're spending some energy trying to make your case worker find you a job.  Are you getting your resume out here on your own?  Personaly I wouldn't want to have to wait on a social worker to help me out.

[Grinch]

Hey, I understand the frustration of your caseworker not calling you back.  Here in Indiana, they privatized the social services offices, which was such an assanine thing to do.  But that's Mitch Daniels for ya.  Now when someone calls welfare, they don't know if they're talking to a computer or somebody in the frickin' Bahamas! 
   I am currently going to school through voc. rehab.  I don't know why your voc. rehab counselor wouldn't let you go to school.  Lots of positive people work in the medical field.  That's not what I'm going for, but, hey, whatever will make you happy.  I, however, am not going to look for full-time work when I graduate because I can't afford to lose Medicare Part D.  Hence, I will only be working as much as social security allows before cutting me off.  Good luck with your situation.  It pisses me off also, like Ann, when people in social service jobs don't do any social service!  Keep fighting!
Betty

I don't understand this.  If you take a full time job you'll have benefits, you won't need medicare.  If you can't work then you can't...if you can why wouldn't you?  Why not excel instead of settling for minimums?  Just having AIDS doesn't mean roll over and accept what they give you.  It means we have to overcome the side effects of the meds, and overcome the pain and fatigue that comes with the virus but it is possible.
I understand that eventually some of us may become disabled but until then, why not just go for it and do for our selves?

[Bucko]

Hey Ann,

Well, basically what I'm saying is you get more bees with honey.    I've got friends who work for various ASO's and believe me they get frustrated and side with fellow employees more often than not.

I just don't think filing a huge complaint is very productive.   

Dan, is there perhaps another counselor who can help you there?   Maybe switching to a different person that is brighter might be an option?

Wesley

Wes-

That is the problem with ASOs. The help there spent equal time congratulating each other and cover each other's asses I loathe how beholden we are to the typical apathetic, do-nothing case managers who dominate the field. The answer is not (I have learned the very hard way) bouncing around from one to the next: the answer is in forcing the hand of an AIDS carrerist into doing his/her job. Excuse-making for such deadweight draining the slender resources we possess only aggravates the problem. I cannot honestly believe that doing the absolute minimum is more important than doing what one is paid for. Coddling incompetents is not the answer.

I don't understand this.  If you take a full time job you'll have benefits, you won't need medicare.  If you can't work then you can't...if you can why wouldn't you?  Why not excel instead of settling for minimums?  Just having AIDS doesn't mean roll over and accept what they give you.  It means we have to overcome the side effects of the meds, and overcome the pain and fatigue that comes with the virus but it is possible.
I understand that eventually some of us may become disabled but until then, why not just go for it and do for our selves?

Grinch-
Do you even read Rush Limbaugh's talking points before spitting them back out? Have you no concept whatsoever how miserly private-sector health care has become (outside of your lofty New England ideal)?

Betty cannot give up her SSDI/Medicare benefits because her options are not feasible financially nor in terms of comparable care. Please don't follow the mantra of conservatism so far that you cannot understand why she would never choose to lower her standard of health care, given the paucity of choices she would face?
The answer is not in cutting SSDI/Medicare benefits, but in making private sector benefits comparable. It's the very least we owe the most productive workforce in the world.

Brent
(Who puked a little in his mouth when reading these two replies)

[Ann]

Hey Ann,

Well, basically what I'm saying is you get more bees with honey.   

Wes,

Sure you get more bees with honey, but if the beekeeper doesn't do his job, that honey is never going to make it to my kitchen table.

Ann
(whose first name means Queen Bee)

(Ann is my middle name)

(really)

[Grinch]

Bucko I wasn't attacking and I wasn't regurgitating anyone's opinion.  I honestly don't understand.

Why would anyone refuse to work full time because they want to get SSDI?  If you're capable of working you're capable of not only getting by but of improving yourself.  My employer paid health insurance certainly isn't the greatest but since I just switched to Atripla I pay $50 a month for meds.  That's pretty reasonable in my book.
How is thinking that that is better than medicare spouting off Rush Limbaugh?

I understand fully that some need disability.  I needed it for a year myself.  My question is why would you turn down a full time job, with benefits that are likely better than medicare if you're able?  That's how I interpreted Betty's statement.
You'll never get promoted or better your lot in life if you rely on the government to do it for you!
Are we expected to just sit around and die because we have AIDS?   It sounds as if you support doing just that, and hoping for some kind of crumbs from the government to make everything a bit better while you're waiting.

Bucko you're one of those guys that I might disagree with on occasion but I respect your thoughts and opinions regardless of where they stand in relation to my own.  Are you really going to tell me it's better to take what medicare gives you, than it is to take your fate into your own hands if possible?

[Dan J.]

I think a little more info is needed here. My State of TN Vocational Rehab case worker placed me with a local employment network, I had one interview with her. (MARCH 06) she gave me a list of jobs. I went and applied for everyone one of them. NADA came out of it not even one interview. I even followed up on several occasions, still nothing. After 6 months I reapplied, still nothing. I haven't heard from the employment network counselor at all THIS YEAR.  I call her also, but no reply...

When I applied for SSDI I needed it to survive, but now that my condition has stabilized & my t-cells are at the highest they have been in ten years. I feel great & like I am waisting my life by living on what little bit of scratch Uncle Sam throws out at me on the 3rd of each month.

At the benefits seminar hosted by West TN Legal Services on Aug 10th I am going to bring up this situation with my ASO case worker. Maybe there is something on the legal end I can get done to make this State Employee actually help me make a PLAN to achieve the goal that I want for myself. I've read & reread all the paper work I signed when I reopened my case with Tn Vocational Rehab. I know my rights & the process to make a complaint & I will if I have to. But, if I can avoid that type of confrontation that would be great. I just want the same opportunity that every other vocational rehab client gets. I was told when I first started with Voc Rehab that no case is ever closed & that they would do everything they can to help me reach the employment goals that I helped plan out with her.  They don't have a right to tell me what I can or can not do because of my disability.

So my thoughts now are looking into the possibility of going back to school. Kinda scary for me since I haven't been in a classroom since the late '80's. I am going to look into either getting my A.S. in Social Work or Medical Lab Technology or possibly Radiology Technology. Being a Radiology Tech would make my pappy proud. He was a Radiologist before he retired in 1992.

I know I should be grateful that I am able to live @ home with my parents. But sometimes a man needs to get his own life back. I want my own home, with my own yard to mow, my house to clean or leave messy on a weekend. To be able to have friends over & smoke a little of gods good green & listen to my "strange music" at full volume when I want to. Staying on SSDI & working for a job from home not making squat isn't going to get me there.

Just to put somethings into perspective. I already listed the hours I work at the top of this thread. My call volume goal for the month of August is 1,500 calls/21 days = 71 CONTACTS a day. That's a lot of damn calls for a paycheck that won't even be 250.00 FOR THE ENTIRE MONTH.
Plus I miss having a working relationships with people. I work alone, the only contact I have with my supervisor is through Email only. I never get  any praise or constructive criticism from him. He's too busy kissing those big muscles on his arms in the mirror. But that's another looooooong story.

[Miss Philicia]

Brent
(Who puked a little in his mouth when reading these two replies)

qft

[Bucko]

Bucko I wasn't attacking and I wasn't regurgitating anyone's opinion.  I honestly don't understand.

Why would anyone refuse to work full time because they want to get SSDI?  If you're capable of working you're capable of not only getting by but of improving yourself.  My employer paid health insurance certainly isn't the greatest but since I just switched to Atripla I pay $50 a month for meds.  That's pretty reasonable in my book.
How is thinking that that is better than medicare spouting off Rush Limbaugh?

I understand fully that some need disability.  I needed it for a year myself.  My question is why would you turn down a full time job, with benefits that are likely better than medicare if you're able?  That's how I interpreted Betty's statement.
You'll never get promoted or better your lot in life if you rely on the government to do it for you!
Are we expected to just sit around and die because we have AIDS?   It sounds as if you support doing just that, and hoping for some kind of crumbs from the government to make everything a bit better while you're waiting.

Bucko you're one of those guys that I might disagree with on occasion but I respect your thoughts and opinions regardless of where they stand in relation to my own.  Are you really going to tell me it's better to take what medicare gives you, than it is to take your fate into your own hands if possible?

A full-time job is no guarantee of insurance outside of competitive markets like California and Massachusetts. New Hampshire's residents benefit from such close proximity to what is, nationwide, the gold standard.

In the four years since I moved to Florida and lost my health insurance, I've been the director of a maid service (working over 60 hours per week), general manager of a furniture store (responsible for sales management, merchandising, distribution, ordering, etc) and night manager of one of the finest boutiques in Broward county. These were multi-million dollar operations that were "too poor" to offer any health care benefits to their employers.

It's telling of the diversity in "community standards" that the nightclub where I am currently working doesn't even carry Worker's Compensation insurance. I know that I'm spinning my wheels right now, but the practical option, making lattes at Starbucks, just makes me depressed.

In order to remain eligible for Ryan White funding for health care, my earnings are about 1/3 of what I earned in Connecticut, and must prove that I am borderline indigent every six months to a case-manager. the pharmacy, the doctor and the dentist (all with differing criteria) separately in order to receive any care whatsoever. To call it demoralizing is putting a very happy face on it.

I have seen the difference in medical care down here for those with SSDI/Medicare. It's like the difference between a city bus and a Jaguar. I should have applied for disability when I had the chance, but felt that once on it would be impossible to get off, and let a certain pride get in the way of my own good.

My options at this point are to apply at Starbucks for $7 per hour for the insurance and take another job to meet my $800 per month rent or go live on my sister's couch in North Andover. I'm sure that one way or another my hand will be forced, but for now am treading water.

[BT65]

Why would anyone refuse to work full time because they want to get SSDI?  If you're capable of working you're capable of not only getting by but of improving yourself.   That's how I interpreted Betty's statement.
You'll never get promoted or better your lot in life if you rely on the government to do it for you!
Are we expected to just sit around and die because we have AIDS?   It sounds as if you support doing just that, and hoping for some kind of crumbs from the government to make everything a bit better while you're waiting.

Grinch-
  I'm not saying people should lay around and die because of AIDS.  What I am saying is that last year Medicare Part D paid $45,000 for my medicine.  The doctor doesn't WANT me to work full-time.  The jobs around here wouldn't insure me.  I don't know how it is in your part of the world, but here it's no utopia.

[Grinch]

Bucko,

  I certainly drive 2+ hours each way to recieve "gold standard" level of care.  That's one of the up sides of living here.  There are plenty of downsides.
If an employer doesn't offer health benefits then I agree completely the right thing to do is not take the job and keep looking.  We need benefits because we simply can't afford even meds under the current system.  Most full time jobs out side of the bar/restaurant buisness that I've had offered healthcare.  The system does need to be fixed though I'm still dead set against a government run system.  They've not run anything well, ever.

My statements were in response to what I see as a prevailing attitude by many here.  That attitude is: "I'm sick.  I want 100% disability for the rest of my life.  I want a nice home, a nice car, party money, free healthcare.  The government must now take care of me."

One poster seemed to be sayng he didn't have a job and it's the case workers fault.  My comment is fuck the case worker.  He could care less about you.
My meaning was simply.  If you CAN do for yourself do so.  Don't wait for anyone to do it for you.  Especially not the government.

We have AIDS, we're not helpless.

[Matty the Damned]

My statements were in response to what I see as a prevailing attitude by many here.  That attitude is: "I'm sick.  I want 100% disability for the rest of my life.  I want a nice home, a nice car, party money, free healthcare.  The government must now take care of me."

One poster seemed to be sayng he didn't have a job and it's the case workers fault.  My comment is fuck the case worker.  He could care less about you.
My meaning was simply.  If you CAN do for yourself do so.  Don't wait for anyone to do it for you.  Especially not the government.

We have AIDS, we're not helpless.

Right wing clap-trap. Nobody here has espoused the attitude that you claim prevails. It's just more of your predictable heartlessness.

What about the people who CANNOT do for themselves, Grinchette? What is to be done about them? Should they just be cast aside like so much rubbish?

MtD

[atxpozguy]

Those Ticket To Work jobs have been filled with illegal immigrants in most states and those of us living with AIDS are seldom selected for a CEO position.

I tried the ticket to work program, but was declined employement because I couldn't pass a drug test for the jobs offerred. One job required a special type of shoe I couldn't wear because of neuropathy. One employer just refused to hire someone with HIV or AIDS and was so narrowminded, he wouldn't even provide an application if he thought the person was gay.

SSDI fits me just fine after working for 23 years with HIV..

I don't consider it sucking the tit of SSDI because I worked for 25 years and paid into the system for the monthly benefit I recieve each month, I am entitled to.

[Grinch]

What about the people who CANNOT do for themselves, Grinchette? What is to be done about them? Should they just be cast aside like so much rubbish?

Nope.  I never said that.  If you can't do for yourself then those that can help should.

There are those here that want things given to them.  My very favorite is the member that tells us about his boat, his convertable, his house in one of the most expensive neighborhoods around, and his top-shelf liquor, then complains that disability and medicare pay so little he has to go to the food bank.

How is it heartless to say If you're able to help yourself do so.  Don't wait on the government. 
How is it heartless to say AIDS doesn't mean roll over and die.  It means we have to work harder and endure more than those that don't deal with the side effects and virus it self.
You'll not find in any post I've made a mention of not helping those that really need it.

I've asked those that accuse me of such things if they'd be willing to put their money and time where their mouth is and make the next trip to Haiti or Belize or where ever clinic the docs are funding this year.
Not a single one is willing to put it out there.

[Miss Philicia]

Damn you welfare queens are your PARTY MONEY!

[Matty the Damned]

I've asked those that accuse me of such things if they'd be willing to put their money and time where their mouth is and make the next trip to Haiti or Belize or where ever clinic the docs are funding this year.
Not a single one is willing to put it out there.

As expected, a straw man argument.

MtD

[BT65]

My statements were in response to what I see as a prevailing attitude by many here.  That attitude is: "I'm sick.  I want 100% disability for the rest of my life.  I want a nice home, a nice car, party money, free healthcare.  The government must now take care of me."

I don't know why you feel you must attack those of us that HAVE to depend on SSDI and make us all out to look like strung-out junkies wringing our hands on the 3rd day of the month.  I have a cheap-ass car that was purchased with a loan refund I got from my college.  I don't get party money, a nice home or a luxury car.  I think you tend to generalize and you need to look at the individual.

[Dan J.]

Living on disablity is no damn picnic. I didn't mean to post this, but I am.

Grinch, Can YOU LIVE on 896.00 A MONTH? I do & if it were not for the help of my parents I would more than likely be living in some hell hole  of an apartment, trying to make it on 16.00 a month for food stamps, waiting for that 25.00 food voucher from the ASO every 3 months. Begging the ASO for RENTAL & Utility ASSISTANCE. The ONLY benefit I use from my ASO is dental care provided by Ryan White. I have to drive 25 miles one way to that dentist. I could get rembursed .35 cents a mile, but I don't ask for it.  As a matter of fact I recently told the ASO to stop sending me food voucher money because I knew they were running short of funds & I felt like I was taking food out of the mouth of someone who needed it more than I do.

I don't want to live on SSDI. I want OFF. That is the whole purpose of this thread. That and the LACK of professional service provided to me by my State of TN paid Vocational Rehab Counselor.

[BT65]

You go ahead and bitch sweetheart.  I'm right there with ya.  I get $765.00 a month SSDI and $9.00 a month in food stamps.  It's definitely short of a nice home, car, party money etc...

[RapidRod]

Dan, I live on a lot less than you, 623 from SSI and 123 for food stamps. This is in no way the way I lived up to two years ago, but I can think of a lot of people that have it a lot worse than me. I'm just happy for what I have and hope that I live long enough to collect my SS benefits. Yes, I'm poor and I'm broke, but I'm still happy.

[Miss Philicia]

There's something odd about complaining about AIDS welfare queens who don't want to work, in the very thread where someone on SSD is stating that they want to work.

Seems rather tactless frankly.  Impolite even.

[Ann]

Everyone -

The "Welfare Queen" hijack of this thread stops right here, right now. That includes you too, Grinch. Don't push it.

And yes, this is a general warning. Put your flame-thowers away, all of you.

Ann

[northernguy]

Best of luck Dan.  I can't imagine anything more stressful than doing debt collection.

Its always an eye opener to see how things work south of the 49th.  It sure makes many things easier when medical coverage is taken out of the equation, and handled by the government!

[AustinWesley]

Wes,

Sure you get more bees with honey, but if the beekeeper doesn't do his job, that honey is never going to make it to my kitchen table.

Ann
(whose first name means Queen Bee)

(Ann is my middle name)

(really)

LOL,

Well, that may be true, but if one goes in to collect that honey raising all kinds of Hell knocking down the bee keeper in the process it's  a strong possibility he's not gona get any honey and may just get stung in the end!

I'm just trying to be rational about the situation and I've made some suggestions.

Sorry for trying to help! 

I just don't see what the giant pity party attitude accomplishes?   Seriously, you think it's in the best interests to file some formal complaint?

[Miss Philicia]

Yes Austin, sometimes it is valuable to file a complaint.  I've gone over folks heads directly to their supervisor and hey, guess what -- I got immediate results.

People should be held accountable.  These programs are paid with public funds, and they should be doing their jobs.  I find it odd that you see this as some sort of novel concept.

[RapidRod]

If he is not getting the help he believes he deserves then yes. Go to the highest level possible. Pity party? That's a remark I'll just ignore and hopes that Dan and everyone else can too.

[AustinWesley]

Yes Austin, sometimes it is valuable to file a complaint.  I've gone over folks heads directly to their supervisor and hey, guess what -- I got immediate results.

People should be held accountable.  These programs are paid with public funds, and they should be doing their jobs.  I find it odd that you see this as some sort of novel concept.

Huh!   Well, I guess I have a different attitude and call it instinct or experience, but I just don't think it's wise to file a complaint while hunting for a job.   The lady may not be the most intelligent or helpful person.  I don't know cause we only have one side of the story.   Regardless, I think it wouldn't be any benefit to waste his energy on this.

Move forward, spend your time productively as you have before and get that dream job you want.   Once you have it then consider complaining about this woman.   Why risk it now?   

Again, I'd recommend seeking out alternative assistance seeking a job whether it be another agency or even another employee there.

Those are my suggestions and I wish you all the luck and success in the world Dan!

Wesley

[Basquo]

Dan, the way you have described the events, and given the long time of no action, I don't think you have anything to lose by complaining at this point. I do like the idea of honey, though, so personally I would talk to the lady one more time, with as much honey in my voice as possible, and basically complain without implicating her directly.  Maybe ask her, "What kind of plan do you think we should follow for the next week? I really want to find a more suitable job."

If she hadn't called me back within a week, then I'd be forced to resort to backstabbing and leaping over a carcass to get to the next level.  And I just hate to do that, no one likes to resort to that, but they set the system up a certain way and if it involves a complaint process then they'll just have to suck it up and follow through. Pity.  I'm so sad for them already!

And don't let them tell you that HIV excludes you from healthcare.  We both know that's bullshit.  I'd like to see in print where they got that from.

Good luck, my friend!

Creighton

[AustinWesley]

I agree with what Creighton has said here also namely the part about really utilizing your people skills with her.  At least give it another go with her.

Unfortunately, your topic got derailed before, but trying to get back on track.

Have you considered a part time job initially Dan?   I believe you can work up to 20 hours a week and still retain your disability income and medicare coverage.

Perhaps this might be an option as well?

[Ann]

I agree with what Creighton has said here also namely the part about really utilizing your people skills with her.  At least give it another go with her.

You two obviously missed the bit where Dan (repeatedly) told us that he cannot get in contact with this woman. She never returns his calls.




Ann

[dreamer]

896.00 a month and living with your folks......oh dear God where is the justice?

[Basquo]

I'm just trying to help. What, they don't have voicemail in TN?

Edited to add, I mean talk to her or at her. Then I would proceed as in my previous post.

[AustinWesley]

You two obviously missed the bit where Dan (repeatedly) told us that he cannot get in contact with this woman. She never returns his calls.




Ann

Does she not have an office?   How bout visiting her in person?

I suggested a number of alternatives instead of beating this dead horse Ann!

[Matty the Damned]

896.00 a month and living with your folks......oh dear God where is the justice?

Hey Dreamer,

Welcome to the Forums. Maybe you'd like to start your own thread and tell us a bit about yourself.

MtD

[Ann]

Wes,

I'll let you have the last word. You obviously need it more than I do.

Ann

[Bucko]

Does she not have an office?   How bout visiting her in person?

I suggested a number of alternatives instead of beating this dead horse Ann!

Anyone who says this has obviously never spent an entire afternoon sitting outside an AIDS careerist's door only to be turned away for not having an appointment.

Brent
(who is familiar with waiting rooms)

[AustinWesley]

Well, you know what they say when you make assumptions?

So, does the lady in question  also not have an email address?

[red_Dragon888]

Maybe they have a job placement program they can help me with, but as far as I know they don't. Sorry for the rant, but this has been going on for a long time & I'm really starting to get tired of the whole mess.  Any advice or input that someone can chime in with would be greatly appreciated.

Dan

You can try the online job sites like moster or yahoo.com   good luck

[Ann]

Wes,

I suggest you drop it, now.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Ann

[dreamer]

matty....you know me, whichway....... and you know i have fought like a mofo to stay alive just to find out i cant meet a 2 dollar copay on some meds.......i'll be go to hell if i will feel sorry for someone drawing 896 and getting medical besides...... throw me out, ban me do what ever.......but i fought to live and nobody but me cares.....

[Matty the Damned]

Which,

Honey, Matty remembers you very well and he's awfully glad to hear from you. But sweetpea, it might be best to post your issues into your own thread and not worry about the hair-pulling in this thread.

It's really good to hear from you babe. I care very much.

MtD

[dreamer]

ever so sorry you're damndest........just hit a nerve........

[Dan J.]

Don't worry about it Dreamer. I know I have it better than some people, but I am ABLE to work now & I want my life as it WAS pre SSDI back. Is that such a bad thing? I am mostly complaining about the LACK of SERVICE by a State of TN Vocational Rehab counsilor that I have been dealing with for over a year. She failed on her part of the Employment Plan that she & I developed. Maybe I should just shut the fuck up & continue working in my bedroom getting cussed out & screamed at over debts that I personally don't give a damn if they pay or not.  Getting paid 250.00 for a months work. Just doesn't seem like an option for me anymore. I am the only one that can make changes happen. But I need incouragement to do it. Can anybody HERE do that???

I wish I never started this thread.

Dan J.

To answer some questions:

Yes, she has an office she is the only Voc Rehab counsilor for the county. I have left her multiple voice mails, emails, every form of communication I can use. I quess I will try smoke signals next, nothing else has worked. LOL  & I am not going to barge into her office demanding service. There is a proper way to do things & an appointment is the right way to go. This person has nothing to do with the ASO. I am going to talk to my case worker at the ASO (West TN Legal Services) & tell her what my experience With TN Dept of Vocational Rehabilitation has been to see if there is a legal course of action I can take. I have done everything this woman asked me to do when she communicated with me.

[AustinWesley]

Hey Dan,

That sounds like a good idea.  I'd take in copies of all the emails and if you kept a list of everything to present to the person at the ASO.  And, I agree that the proper way is to make an appointment once you are able to get ahold of her.

You may want to see if the ASO has any job openings as well.   They often work to accommodate people on SSDI so they can retain their benefits.

Keep plugging away, I'm a firm believer that persistence pays off and this other collection job sounds like a stress nightmare for little reward and even less pay.

I don't know the job market in your area, but as another person suggested it might be worth posting your resume on Monster.com and some of the other sites and avoid the bureaucratic red tape all together.

Wesley   

[woodshere]

Yes, she has an office she is the only Voc Rehab counsilor for the county. I have left her multiple voice mails, emails, every form of communication I can use. I quess I will try smoke signals next, nothing else has worked. LOL  & I am not going to barge into her office demanding service. There is a proper way to do things & an appointment is the right way to go. This person has nothing to do with the ASO. I am going to talk to my case worker at the ASO (West TN Legal Services) & tell her what my experience With TN Dept of Vocational Rehabilitation has been to see if there is a legal course of action I can take. I have done everything this woman asked me to do when she communicated with me.

Dan, If you have all of this documented I think you most certainly should find out who this person's supervisor is and take this up with them.  I have always found when I have exhausted all my resources and patience with someone, asking to talk to their supervisor, seems to get the ball moving.  One situation I had involved me moving up the ladder 4-5 times, each time asking to speak to a supervisor until the situation was resolved in a satisfactory manner.

Best of Luck,
Woods

[Dan J.]

I just called my case worker with the ASO @ West Tennessee Legal Services & ldft a message on her voice mail. Hopefully she will call me back. Hopefully they can help me somehow, someway. I tried again calling the Vocational Rehabilitaiton case worker, left another message:

"Lee Ann, This is Dan J. requesting that you PLEASE return my phone call. I have left MULTIPLE MESSAGES for you & I NEVER seem to get a response from you. I understand you have more clients than MYSELF but I am @ witts end trying to contact you. I want to WORK & get OFF SSDI are you not the person that is PAID to help me acchieve the employment goals that we planned together in March 2006? If I do not hear from you very soon I am going to withdraw my ticket to work from your agency & file a FORMAL compliant about your lack of professinalism & derilection of your dutuies to ME, YOUR CLIENT."

I also sent that to her in an email. So maybe I will get some sort of response. If not, then my next course of action will be to sit down face to face with my ASO case manager to see if West TN Legal Services can assist me in pursuing a legal course of action.

Ihave EVERYTHING documented, emails, when I have called her & all the paper  work associated with my case with Vocational Rehab.

[allanq]

Dan,
Would it be possible for you to register with a regular employment agency and not deal with government services? Sometimes the employer pays the agency fees. You wouldn't be under any obligation to disclose your HIV status.

Allan

[Miss Philicia]

I've encountered this sort of ineptitude with so many public agencies.  I realize some are overwhelmed, but others are simply inept.  I've sat there with them at their desks and watched them confused using voice mail and computers.  There are times when it's like encountering dead people.

For those posters who have not interacted much with such things, image a bad dealing with a utility company representative and multiply it times 10.

[Dan J.]

Maybe but employment agencies charge fees to help people find jobs. The ticket to work which has to be assigned to voc rehab would pay those fees, training, transportation & equipment for me to do a job. I have a Ticket to work that is valued at $25,000.00 if I am going to do all this for myself, by myself then I feel I should be paid for doing the work of an incompetent state employee.

Dan

Edited to remove a stupid ass remark.

[Miss Philicia]

Dan, it's OK to bitch here.

[Dan J.]

I just got off the phone with my ASO case worker, Yolanda @ West TN Legal Services. She said they don't have any funds of job placement all thir funds go to transportation, rental/utility assistance & Dental care that being in a rural area we don't get the funds that the larger cities do & that she can't help me with that. I told her of the situation with TN Vocational Rehab. Yolanda told me that they don't handle cases like that but she would speak to the lawyers @ West TN Legal Services to see whom they can refer me to.

All I can do now is wait. I've done it for a year, whats a few more days, weeks or months.

Edited to remove insensitive remarks.

[Oceanbeach]

Hey Dan,

71 connected calls in an 8 hour shift, without auto-dial is above and beyond what is considered average.  When I had a phone staff, I pushed for 60 calls in a day and when an employee met or exceeded that goal, they were rewarded.

Since you are making $220.00 per month, I would assume you are being paid a percentage of collection and not hourly and with no minimum guarantee.  There was a time when a person could make an acceptable wage in the telemarketing industry but the industry abused the rights of the people at home and everybody and his/her dog got calls simply because they have a telephone.  A few years ago the Federal Trade Commission started the "do not call list" and telemarketers can only call individuals who the employer is currently doing business with, charities, and political candidates.

Government entities such as legal services, support for the disabled and probably every care network known to us are faced with lack of funding and their staff are not normally finding jobs for the disabled.  They tend to screen, help with resumes and have endless meetings but the actual placements are done through the private sector.  The same openings are often listed with EDD and in the local papers. This gives the potential employer the warm fuzzy feeling that they are helping the disabled when they fully intend to hire a person without a long gap in employment history.

Because of the cost of workers comp insurance permiums, the larger employers are more often hiring long term temps through an agency.  The agencies become the employer of record, have the responsibility of paying the insurance costs and the actual employer pays a percentage mark up of anywhere form 20% to 60%.

You have skills, goals and seem to be driven to succeed.  I would recommend that you go to one or two of the larger employment agencies, sign up and take all the skills testing they have available.  Most employment agencies officially open their doors to the public at 8:00 AM but there is always someone there much earlier in case a client needs a position filled by early that morning.  The people who get placed through the agencies first are the ones who call the agency every morning, very early.  Employment agencies are commission driven, they get paid the agreed 20% to 60% per person, per hour.  They also have a staff who are calling potential client employers and looking for new placement possibilities.  They pay every Friday and many of the larger agencies also offer health benefits for long term temps.  They also have a temp- to- hire program.

Employment for people living with HIV is a fairly new concept. The government entities are hanging out vouchers, because that is what they are trained to do.  Employers are beginning to look at us as having an "invisible disability" but there are challenges.  Last year, I spent months going to meetings to plan meetings, to talk about meetings with small government entities...  I finally gave up because the small government entites and simply not sophisticated to meet our needs.  I ended up opening my own home-based business and am currently kicking butt in sales and production.  Our first issue with HIV is staying alive/right to life and now with all the advances in care and treatment, we have a right to expect quality of life as well.  Have the best day
Michael   

[allopathicholistic]

I don't understand this.  If you take a full time job you'll have benefits, you won't need medicare. 

OMG. Unfucking real!! Some jobs don't offer benefits!

[Grinch]

Then don't take the job. Find one that does. 

[dixieman]

Dan, I really do not know what to tell you... but, my brother-n-law whose 52 recently sold his buisness and he's now applying for employment... college degree, healthy for one at 52 except diabetic... and after 6 months... he is still unemployed.. so could it be your age plus all the other combining that makes it difficult to find employment... age discrimination... health discrimination, also someone convicted of a felony whose served their time also find  themselves in difficult situations to gain emploment... it may not be anything associated with hiv? who knows?

[Miss Philicia]

Uh... how do you think he's expected to explain away a four year hole on his work history?

[Dan J.]

Uh... how do you think he's expected to explain away a four year hole on his work history?

Actually I don't have a 4 year hole in my work history. I have worked for the law firm since Jan 04. My problem with the debt collection job is that it just doesn't pay enough for the hours and the stress it causes me. Plus , I work alone  @ home. I wish I could go back to the office here in Jackson, but that's never going to happen.  I checked my local papers online classified ads today & there is  new debt collections company starting up & the are hiring full & part time employees. A part time job there making an hourly wage  @ 20 hours a week  would be a win-win situation for me. I have already applied online so hopefully I will hear something soon. Having my TN debt collections state licence will help me get in the door above other applicants.

Dan


But I would have to explain why I didn't work from Dec 2002 to Jan 04. 

[Miss Philicia]

Oh, that's good.  I just saw "2003" and forgot you can put these part time jobs down. 

[Queen Tokelove]

Dan, I live on a lot less than you, 623 from SSI and 123 for food stamps. This is in no way the way I lived up to two years ago, but I can think of a lot of people that have it a lot worse than me. I'm just happy for what I have and hope that I live long enough to collect my SS benefits. Yes, I'm poor and I'm broke, but I'm still happy.

Amen, Rod. I am in the same area as you when it comes to SSDI and the food stamps. I am still left wondering how they equate how much someone should get. I got a gay friend who has been out of work for 3 months, get cash assistance and food stamps but gets more than me with a son? He wants to go to work but due to having seizures they might try to can him. I really don't know all the details on that but still. I get 127 in food stamps and that is suppose to last me til the following month with a 16 yr old living with me. I often wonder what the hell the people at the welfare office has been smoking. Food barely lasts me 2 weeks after getting it and with food prices going up, you don't end up walking out with much no matter where you go to shop. I will not say I am happy cause I'm not. I can't even say I am content, I feel more like I am struggling to survive.

[BT65]

Dan:
  I do hope you hear something positive soon!  Let us know!
Betty

[Dan J.]

Amen, Rod. I am in the same area as you when it comes to SSDI and the food stamps. I am still left wondering how they equate how much someone should get. I got a gay friend who has been out of work for 3 months, get cash assistance and food stamps but gets more than me with a son? He wants to go to work but due to having seizures they might try to can him. I really don't know all the details on that but still. I get 127 in food stamps and that is suppose to last me til the following month with a 16 yr old living with me. I often wonder what the hell the people at the welfare office has been smoking. Food barely lasts me 2 weeks after getting it and with food prices going up, you don't end up walking out with much no matter where you go to shop. I will not say I am happy cause I'm not. I can't even say I am content, I feel more like I am struggling to survive.

My local ASO provides Food vouchers it's only 35.00 every 3 months but every little bit helps. Check with your ASO & see if they have the same program.

[Queen Tokelove]

Dan~~

I hope you get the job, sweetie. I can see how bad you want it. My ASO use to give out the vouchers every month $25. My old case manager who died use to give me 2 to get me to come to clinic awhile back. Now the rule is you can't get one unless you go to the local food banks. I need to get up and go, no excuses there. I really don't bother with asking for one anymore.

[Dan J.]

Baby, If I  could give you mine I would, but the voucher is for a local grocery store. I don't use them since I live @ home with the "old folks". I feel I am taking food out of the mouth of someone that needs it more than I do.

Dan J.

[JR Gabbard]

Oh boy am I glad I missed the start of this thread.  Seems to have stirred up a lot of heat.

Dan J.--hang in there.  I am in the same boat as you, and I know that you are right about inept Rehab workers and ASOs. 

Sometimes surviving AIDS means you have to take the bull by the horns, and make happen the things you need to have happen.  Like making your own job.  Looks like that is what you want to do, (because of the telemarkieting gig) but it doesn't seem to be working for you.  That's OK--there are other options for self-employment.

Have you thought about getting a website?  You could be an Amazon or Ebay reseller, or if you have a particular talent, you could market that and make yourself a mint!!  What would make you happy?

I think self-employment works particularly well for those of us with AIDS, because you can set your own hours, and meet your own expectations.  No bosses, so not so much stress.  Michael (sonomabeach) is doing it; so am I.

Have you heard of the PASS program (through SSA)?  They can give you the seed money you need to open your chosen business.  It is not just for going back to school.  SSA wants you off benefits just as much as you want to be off them!!  Just don't give up.

If you want to find out more about PASS, send me a PM with a contact number and a good time to call.  It's a little too complex to discuss on a board.  You can find my contact info on my website (see my profile).

And as for ASOs, they will always be a disappointment until they are fully staffed by people like us.  Only HIV+ people can truly help other people with HIV.  Just my (not so humble) opinion.

JR

[Dan J.]

Thank you for the encouragment & the info JR! I think I have read something about PASS somewhere. I will go to the website & check it out.
I will send you a PM .

Yep, In an ideal world the infected should be running & working in the ASO's. I have TennCare & there was an article in the monly "Better Health" mailer they send out every month about a training program for participants that are mental health consumers to be peer counsilors for other mental health patients. Wish there was  a program like that for HIV.

Dan

[Dan J.]

Well, I had an appointment with my new General Practioner today. Actually she was my Dr.  5 years agao when I was working full time & had private insurance. She asked me what my #'s were & if I was working i told her about what I am doing now. She told me I needed to get out of the house & find a job that I enjoy instead of the stress debt collections gig. I aggreed. So, it's REALLY time to start looking. I haven't heard anything from the aplication I put in for the other job, yet. I am going to keep looking & try to move on. Probably something just part time. That way I can keep my medicare coverage & suppliment the disability check with  something more reliable than a commision only job. But in an ideal world I would want off SSDI completely & i am checking into the PASS program as J.R. mentioned last night....

Dan
(who should be collecting debts, but would rather post here all day)

[Dan J.]

The Tn Voc Rehab councilor actually called me back today, but all she did was give me vague promises.  & that she would have to get back with me... Yeah, right. I ain't gonna hold my breath.

Still no word from the Collections Agency I applied with the other day... Sigh.

Something needs to happen soon. I was informed by the law firm today that I will be needing to buy another desk  top because they are replacing the work server to a Vista based system & that my Windows XP Professional desktop will not work with the new system.

Voc Rehab will not buy me another computer, so I will have to spend my own $ for it... Damn it.

Dan
(who doesn't have 1500.00 to spend on a new computer.)

[chrism1973]

WOW,
         Its been awhile since I have been on here.I have just started the process of the ticket to work program here in Vermont.So far so good.I am working P/T to supliment my income.I am looking into training in the medical field.I have my CNA but want to become a LPN and there are programs here for that.I am not sure if that helps you or not Dan.If your caseworkeer isn't working for you contact the SSA they will light a fire under his/her ass if need be.

                                                                                                            Chris

[Dan J.]

I have FINALLY spoken directly to my Voc Rehab case manager!!!! I can't BELIEVE IT!!! I told her I was interested in the possibility of starting a Social Security PASS ( Program to Achieve Self Support) http://www.ssa.gov/disabilityresearch/wi/pass.htm but it is complicated to understand the program. I had  a brief conversation with a another forum member. He is doing this program.  I am in research mode at this point & nothing has been decided on. I will me with a local PASS expert on Monday & he is going to explain the program. I also plan on going by the local Social Security office to see if there is any written material on the subject. I am sure there is...

Either way, I told my case manager that something needs to happen, she agreed.  I have been instructed to call her back on Tuesday... Hope she calls me.

Can anyone explain what an Amazon reseller is??? I've tried to find out online, but I can't seem to get a good description.

Dan

[Miss Philicia]

Can anyone explain what an Amazon reseller is??? I've tried to find out online, but I can't seem to get a good description.

Dan

I'm not quite sure, but I would suspect it has to do with listing USED books on Amazon.  If you look up older titles on there for books and CDs you'll generally see used items listed if you look hard enough -- got to click on the "Used" section that is in small print.

Additionally there are also a lot of small businesses that list their inventory on Amazon now for a lot of other non-book/cd titles.  Maybe they contract out to others to do the listings (?).  Not sure how it all works though.

[Bucko]

I have purchased both used books and CDs from Amazon, as many really desirable things are either out-of-print or otherwise unavailable.

Although I don't really know much about the specifics either, I'd guess that the vendor pays a commission to Amazon for the listing and in collecting the money (one pays Amazon, not the individual vendor). This percentage must be mutually advantageous, because it flourishes alongside Amazon's regular inventory.

I miss the dusty old stores, but shopping online is so much easier and more practical, and shipping was very easy.

Brent
(Who has rarefied tastes)

[Bucko]

Oh!

I almost forgot to say how pleased I am that you and the voc case manager finally hooked up. Good luck in getting back to work.

Brent
(Who needs so more tea)

[BT65]

Dan-
  I am so glad that you and your case manager hooked up.  Please let us know how that pass thing goes for you.