Hi there - I am a 21 year old currently collecting SSI. I got it for Schizoaffective disorder Bipolar type and severe anxiety. I was approved in 5 months on my first try.

They say about 70% of people get denied their first time. This is why tons of medical records are needed. For me personally, I had medical records from psychiatrists dating back to when I was 7 years old. I faithfully continued to get help for my issues from age 7 up to my current age now.

I'm sure the fact that I also worked 7 jobs in 1 year helped me case. They ask you on the form you have to fill out what jobs you worked at and how long.

You also need to be medicated - they want to see you atleast are trying to get help for your issues rather than not taking anything and obviously getting worse.

I never did a phone interview(atleast I dont think) but they mailed me TONS of paperwork... I had to fill out forms about my daily life and the activities i do everyday.. I had to fill out forms about all the medications I take, doctors ive seen and jobs ive worked.. Its a long drawn out process.

Oh and then they sent me to be evaluated by their ssi doctor.. He asked me all sorts of questions about my mental health and even argued with me(he was really rude) and at the end he told me my meds just needed to be adjusted -_-

A lot of people end up needing a lawyer to help them...Funny thing, when I first applied I was looking into getting a lawyer to help me..The one I called declined helping me.. Good thing because a few months later i ended up winning by myself so I didnt have to owe anybody money..Lol.

anyways GOODLUCK! and absolutely apply! I will say, there was times during the 5 month process I was about to give up and quit doing the paperwork..I thought NO WAY was I going to be accepted.. I didnt think I was considered disabled enough..but something keep nudging me to go through with it and then bam..I was accepted.

Oh and i was approved and have never been hospitalized