Attacks against Social Security Disability Insurance have been on the rise lately, according to Newsday.
Among other things, some critics say that SSDI applications have increased because of laid-off workers who turn to disability after their unemployment benefits run out.
Social Security Commissioner Michael Astrue, who President George W. Bush appointed, made the same statement last year in an August 22 Newsday article that discusses how the Social Security Disability program is in financial trouble as aging baby boomers and laid-off workers file many claims.
However, some SSDI applications have increased simply due to the aging population. Disability claims increase as more people near retirement age since older workers are more likely to have medical problems that make them unable to work. SSDI applications have also increased because the U.S. population has grown.
If someone thinks SSDI is an incentive not to work, be aware that the average monthly benefit is $1,100, or $13,200 a year. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, the poverty level for a family of three is $19,090.
When you look at those numbers, it hardly seems that Social Security Disability Insurance is providing an incentive for people to fake a disability.
If you or someone you know needs help with Social Security Disability benefits, contact the disability lawyers at Newlin Disability.
