The Growing Number of Social Security Disability Claims in the United States
The Growing Number of Social Security Disability Claims in the United States
It is more than sixty years since Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) was introduced, following an extensive discussion in Congress and executive agencies. The program has seen tremendous growth over the years – jumping to 5.2 percent of working-age Americans participating in 2015 — which has forced Congress to periodically rescue the program from collapse. The most recent measure was in 2015 when the Bipartisan Budget Act transferred funds from Social Security’s old-age survivor’s fund to extend the solvency of the disability fund through 2023.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD or SSDI)
Social Security Disability Insurance was first considered in 1936, when planners in the Social Security Administration discussed developing a program that could withstand the circumstances of the Great Depression. When disability was first defined, the definitions were strict. Lawmakers deliberately wanted to differentiate between disability and unemployment. The Social Security Disability program, which is funded by the Disability Trust Fund, is derived from payroll taxes. The program provides monetary benefits to disabled individuals who have made adequate contributions through FICA taxes. Benefits are based on the earnings record of the individual and benefits are not paid for the first five months after becoming disabled.
Recent growth in the program is attributed to an aging workforce and the addition of women in the workforce since the program’s inception. Economists also cite another reason for growth: workers who previously would have endured the physical pain of a job who are now applying for disability benefits when that job is no longer available.
Do I qualify for Social Security Disability?
The Social Security Administration uses an established evaluation process in determining whether an individual is eligible to receive disability benefits. Those under consideration must have a medical condition that meets their definition of disability. Generally, an individual is considered disabled if they are unable to perform the duties of the job they had prior to the illness or disability and they are unable to adjust to other work because of the medical condition. In making this determination, Social Security considers several factors, including age, work experience, education, and whether, given the national economy, the potential job exists in significant numbers. These decisions are guided by a table of established rules that evaluate how these factors affect an individual’s remaining capacity for work. An individual’s disability must be expected to last a minimum of one year or to result in death.
Contact an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer today
Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance is complicated and the process of presenting your case for receiving benefits is complex and time consuming. It is important to have experienced legal representation for the best possible outcome for your case. New Port Richey Social Security Disability attorney Joseph M. Rooth has been helping injured and disabled workers procure disability benefits for more than 25 years. Serving clients throughout the Tampa Bay area, with convenient offices in New Port Richey, Spring Hill, Seminole and Clearwater, attorney Rooth has extensive knowledge of the Social Security Disability program and is personally committed to each case. Contact the Rooth Law Firm today to schedule a free confidential consultation at 727-849-3400 or online.