So I found out how the process works in az. While on short term you apply for long term at least 45 days b4 short ends my end date is 10/18. Your case has to be processed by 45 days. Once you are on long term your job provides a lawyer to handle your ss case unless you refuse. The law says they have to and they really want to because they want you to win your ssso they dont have to pay you long term untill you reach ss age. As far as my retirement it doesn't count no one can touch it because i earned it. My cousin who worked with me just went through the process. She just got long approved and the attorney is working on the ss part now. So she's getting long term 1700 a month plus her retirement/pension. DianaCox Spiky Bugger Munchkin southernlady JackieOnLine hilary1617