I had to re-apply a few times. The first time I was denied so I obtained an attorney. With the attorney I had to go to court. It took a year before the court date. I lost my case. I was told I was too young (38 age) and educated (B.S. degree). I waited six months and re-applied again (no attorney). I won my case. I applied for food stamps and Medicaid during this ordeal. I was let go from my job. I was able to get unemployment for one year. I paid all my necessity bills (rent, utilities, car insurance and car payment). I stopped paying my credit cards it just was not possible. After a year I moved to my birth state and lived with a family member. Now that I'm on SSDI I no longer get the stamps and Medicaid. My income is too much. Me and my daughter have our own place. Good luck to you