If you have applied for Social Security Disability or SSI, you probably realize that you're in for a long wait. It is unfortunate that those who need assistance the most--disabled Americans--are left without help while they endure the long disability application process. The good news is that there are several resources and tips that can help you get by while you wait.

The first resource, and the best, is friends and relatives. These are the people who know you well, understand your situation and disabled condition, and are hopefully willing to help where needed. It is best to check with them once you have applied for disability, but before you need help. Let them know how long the anticipated wait will be, and tell them that you are doing your best to survive financially. Then ask if you can count on them for support if anything should happen. They may be willing to help to a certain point, and then you will know where you stand.

If you are having difficulty paying your doctor bills, DO NOT STOP YOUR DOCTOR VISITS. Your disability claim depends heavily on those medical records. Instead, look into state health assistance, or attend free health clinics at the County Health Department building if applicable. Talk to your doctor about the possibility of a payment plan, or see if general brand medications are acceptable instead of name brands. If you have outstanding hospital bills, negotiate with the billing department. Inform them that you are applying for disability or SSI and see if they will accept a reduced amount or postpone collections for awhile. They are often willing to work with disabled patients who have no other options.

Your state should also have resources that can help. Among these are General Assistance, which will basically loan you the amoung you need to get by until you are approved, and then you will pay them back. Similar to this is Social Security's Interim plan. Although Interim is usually considered a last resort, and few disability applicants are approved, it can be a helpful resource. Put simply, Social Security allows the state to loan you funds which they withhold when you are approved. If you are denied, however, be aware that you must pay that money back yourself. The Interim program should be considered a last resort for that reason.

If your financial situation is such that 1) you are about to become homeless, 2) you cannot afford medications that you need to sustain life, or 3) your physical condition becomes life-threating, you may qualify for a dire-need situation, which will expedite your disability decision. If any of the above apply, contact Social Security. They will require proof of your situation. If you are about to lose electricity or have a combination of related problems, contact Social Security and ask if your specific situation would help you qualify for dire need.

However you decide to get by, please DO NOT use fast loan services. These companies charge incredibly high interest rates and are rigid in collecting those fees. They almost always leave recipients in worse condition than before. Even disability recipients have been scammed into handing over their disability checks to these quick loan companies. Avoid them at all cost.

Wherever you are in the disability process, best of luck.