New Tool Determines Social Security Disability Recipients’ Abilities to Manage Payments

Mar 14, 2014 | Social Security Disability Insurance

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Roughly 3.5 million Americans receive Social Security Disability benefits due to psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Despite receiving these payments, many of these individuals still struggle to manage their money, leading to homelessness and hunger.

That’s why the Social Security Administration is considering using a new tool, called the Financial Incapability Structured Clinician Assessment done Longitudinally (FISCAL), to determine if benefits recipients can manage their finances. According to an article from Medscape, the tool has gained support after recent successful testing.

Investigators examined 118 patients who were receiving Social Security Disability payments, had recently received medical treatment for a psychiatric disorder at an acute care facility, and had no conservator or payee to help manage their funds. They found that nearly half of those individuals were unable to properly manage their money, with a majority spending the money on drugs, alcohol, and other items.

Experts agreed that better and more frequent screening of financial capability is needed to prevent the mismanagement of Social Security Disability funds.

The Social Security Disability lawyers with Newlin Disability understand there are questions and confusion that can arise when managing Social Security disability payments, and we are here to help. Call us if you or a loved one need help navigating the Social Security Disability system.

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If you’re navigating the complexities of Social Security disability claims, Newlin Disability is here to provide expert guidance and support. Reach out to our experienced team today, and let us help you understand your options, streamline the application process, and maximize your chances of receiving the benefits you deserve.