The Social Security Administration (SSA) has recently announced an important change in its disability benefits program. This shift comes as part of an effort to make the evaluation process more effective, particularly when determining whether individuals with disabilities meet the criteria for benefits.
If you’re currently receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or thinking about applying, this update could significantly impact your chances of qualifying.
What Has Changed in the Disability Benefits Program?
Previously, the SSA defined disability as being unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to a medically determinable physical or mental condition. This condition had to either last at least 12 months or be expected to result in death.
However, the agency found that some jobs, which people with disabilities might potentially perform, were not widely available in today’s job market.
This led to a critical change. Starting this week, the SSA will no longer consider certain occupations, such as models, astronomers, and agricultural engineers, when evaluating whether someone is eligible for disability benefits.
These jobs, although technically possible for some, have few opportunities in the current U.S. economy.
Professions Affected by This Change
The table below outlines the occupations that the SSA will no longer consider when reviewing disability benefit applications:
| Occupation | Reason for Exclusion |
|---|---|
| Models | Few job opportunities in the labor market |
| Astronomers | Limited job availability nationwide |
| Agricultural Engineers | Low demand for positions |
Additionally, the SSA has flagged 13 other occupations where judges have raised concerns about labeling individuals as “not disabled” based on these jobs. The agency is also taking into account whether the labor market can realistically provide enough job opportunities for individuals with disabilities in these roles.
Why the SSA Made This Change?
According to Social Security Commissioner Martin O’Malley, the SSA aims to improve its decision-making process by identifying jobs that are no longer in demand.
This means decision-makers will no longer use these professions as a reason to deny benefits to applicants. This change is designed to make the evaluation process more fair and transparent for people applying for disability benefits.
O’Malley further explained that this update will allow the SSA to focus on occupations that are more relevant in today’s economy. As a result, the process of evaluating disability claims will become clearer, especially for those applying for the first time or renewing their benefits.
Impact on Disability Benefits Applications
By changing the definition of disability, the SSA hopes to streamline the review process for disability claims. This means that applicants can expect a more focused evaluation based on whether they can realistically find work in jobs that are in demand.
The SSA will rely on data from the Occupational Requirements Survey conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics to guide future changes in the program.
Must Read: Missed Your September Social Security Disability Payment? Here’s How to Claim It?
What Does This Mean for Current and Future Applicants?
For individuals who are already receiving SSDI benefits, or for those who are considering applying, it’s important to stay informed about these changes.
The SSA will now be more selective about the types of jobs it considers when determining eligibility for benefits. This could either increase or decrease your chances of approval, depending on your situation.
In May, the number of disabled workers receiving Social Security benefits was 7.23 million, a drop of 20,000 from the previous month. The average payment was just over $1,500 a month, with a total payout of just over $11 million.
While some experts, like Plan Prep’s retirement specialist Burt Williamson, suggest that this decline could be due to people passing away, transitioning to retirement benefits, or losing eligibility, it’s important to note that these are just hypotheses.
Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.