I know what your talking about. As long as your doctor approves it, just get the paper work from your union or human resources. You pay for it so use it. And apply for fmla also it will hold your position for 12 weeks, so if you should change your mind you can go back.

I would still apply for long term disability from your job, not only did you pay for it, but you can collect that while applying for ssd. When you apply for ssd it takes at least a year before you get anything.

Consider filing for benefits soon. See what happens ie how you feel and situation at work etc. Worry and stress is not good for us ms-ers so maybe if you are a bit proactive with the benefits you will feel more in charge. I wish you better days ahead and wisdom to do what you need to do for you and yours. Remember...you are still strong.

to continue since my MS fat fingers posted before Im done.. a private LTD policy will require you to apply for SSD and show proof you have done it. What they will do is take any SSDI payments and reduce your LTD disability payment. For a simple example, if a LTD pays 1000 a month,and you get approved for SSDI at 250 a month, the LTD payment will get reduced to 750. You still get the 1000 a month but from 2 sources. By getting the LTD disability started, the LTD insurance company will "help" you get SSDI in the event you get rejected. SSDI is famous for rejecting people on the first application, so if you already have LTD, they will help with the appeal to SSDI. Good luck and hang in there..

Lots of advice already given here.. I am in the same spot going through this. First thing, read your policy. Frequently, you will have to exhaust any short term disability benefits before you can collect long term disability. 2) Make sure you have a doctor that understands private disability insurance vs. SSD. 3) Almost all LTD policies will also require you to apply for SSDI in the same time frame. T However, the LTD is likely to start paying sooner than SSDI, go this route first, since you can take advantage of things like the Family Medical Leave Act, taking a leave of absence, using up vacation days, etc..