Surge in SSDI Applications Makes Applying for Benefits Slow Going

An aging population and a slow economy has caused a sharp uptick in applications for Social Security Disability benefits – a program which supplements people’s income when their disability prevents them from being able to work. It’s not easy to qualify for the program, and many opt to employ an attorney to help them navigate through the reconsideration process after they’ve been denied.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) reports that applications were up 17 percent in 2009 across the nation. In Georgia and Tennessee, the increase is around 25 percent, and the rise has triggered administrators to seek an additional 100 federal employees to handle the surge. As it stands, it can take up to two years to get approval for benefits.

In basic terms, to qualify for disability benefits an adult must have worked for a significant period of time prior to his or her application, and must have a disability so severe that it will either last longer than 12 months or result in the person’s death. The SSA reviews each application and determines whether or not a person’s disability will qualify them for benefits, and will take into consideration factors such as age, education and past work experience. There are special rules for people who are blind, for children, and for veterans, as well as for those who have never been employed but are very poor (known as Supplemental Security Income).

Commentators speculate that a bad economy can cause employers who were previously able to accommodate a disabled employee to be forced to let the disabled employee go. It becomes more difficult for employers to allow for frequent absences, reduced productivity, or special accommodations that can may accompany a disabled employee.

Obtaining Social Security Disability benefits can be long and arduous, with forms, court hearings and multiple medical evaluations. Many people have found that hiring an attorney experienced in this area of the law can help speed along the process and help disabled workers better understand their rights and options under the law.