Posted 5/17/2016 5:51 AM (GMT -5)
fly,
Sorry to hear of the condition, but hopefully you can get some benefits. As you are indicating you are retiring, I suggest you first file a SSDI claim and start the process. If you qualify for CAP it may speed things up. But also file for your SS retirement benefits as you now qualify for them as you are over age 62.
If you get the SSDI the claim is paid retroactively to your application date. The SSDI benefit is a couple hundred dollars more per month than your retirement benefit and they would pay you that difference back to the SSDI application date if you are successful. Then at age 66, Full Retirement Age, the SSDI benefit becomes the retirement benefit.
Are you filing for disability from your job? If you truly can't do the work that is the place to start. Take their disability payments until you reach age 65 then take your SS retirement benefit. If all you do is retire, then you may be hindered in your SSDI claim.
This is another example where a consultation with a legal specialist before you do things is very important. I suggest you get to a specialist immediately to get the best advice. Without it, you risk taking actions that can't be undone that can cost you benefits. This is not a good area for amateurs, in my experience.
Best wishes.
Jack