Although most people prefer not to think about it, you are more likely to become disabled than you might think. For this reason, the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers disability benefits through two programs: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). If you currently qualify for these programs or plan to apply, it’s important to be aware of upcoming changes.
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Disability Benefits
Social Security provides disability benefits to individuals who cannot work due to a physical condition expected to last at least a year or result in death. This stringent definition is mandated by federal law.
To be eligible for SSDI benefits, one must meet the SSA’s definition of disability and have sufficient work history under Social Security. Unlike some other programs, Social Security does not offer financial assistance for short-term or partial disabilities.
Application Process
As stated by Martin O’Malley, Commissioner of Social Security, new regulations aim to make the application process easier by focusing on recent and relevant employment history. Starting June 22, 2024, the SSA will limit the consideration of past relevant work to five years. Previously, applicants had to recall details of their work history spanning 15 years, often resulting in incomplete or incorrect information.
Additionally, employment that began and ended in less than 30 days will no longer be considered. This change helps applicants concentrate on their most recent relevant jobs, making the application process more efficient and ensuring SSA staff have better data to make decisions. The streamlined process is expected to improve customer service, reduce wait times, and shorten case processing times.
Other Regulation Modifications
The SSA is implementing several regulatory modifications to enhance its disability benefits program. Recently, the agency updated the definition of a public assistance home to reduce barriers to the SSI program. The administration also announced that food value will not be considered when calculating SSI benefits. Moreover, the rental subsidy exception, previously available only in seven states, will become a national policy.
Updating the Occupations List
In addition to streamlining the application process, the SSA will update the occupations list used in determining disability eligibility. When assessing disability claims for adults, the SSA considers the ability to perform other work-related activities, age, education, work experience, and the national workforce.
The SSA currently relies on the Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT) and its companion book to assess an individual’s potential to adapt to the national labor market. However, 114 DOT vocations with limited work opportunities in each of the nine U.S. Census divisions will no longer be used to determine a “not disabled” outcome.
Furthermore, 13 DOT jobs identified by the department as having supporting documentation for a “not disabled” finding questioned by federal courts will be reconsidered. This update aims to ensure that only the most relevant occupations are considered, providing a fairer evaluation for disability benefits applicants.
What This Means for Applicants
For current and prospective applicants, these changes signify a more straightforward and efficient process. By focusing on recent employment and updating occupational assessments, the SSA aims to make disability benefit applications more accessible and accurate. If you’re planning to apply for disability benefits, staying informed about these changes is crucial.
For further information or assistance with your application, consult a financial professional or an SSA specialist. Visiting the SSA’s official website or using your My Social Security account can also provide valuable resources and updates.
In conclusion, the SSA is implementing several changes to improve the efficiency and accuracy of the disability benefits application process. These updates will help applicants focus on relevant employment history, streamline the evaluation process, and ensure fair consideration of occupational opportunities. Staying informed and proactive about these changes can help you navigate the disability benefits system more effectively.
FAQs
What are the new SSA regulations about past work?
Limiting consideration to the last five years.
When do the new regulations take effect?
June 22, 2024.
What types of disabilities qualify for SSDI?
Disabilities lasting at least a year or leading to death.
Will food value be considered in SSI benefits?
No, it will not be included.
What happens to the 114 DOT vocations?
They will no longer determine a “not disabled” outcome.