The pandemic has caused Social Security Disability applications to decline. For example, according to NPR, awards for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits have decreased 30 percent since the start of the pandemic.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) is reaching out to the public and community-based organizations to help increase the awareness of Social Security’s programs. The agency wants our help in assisting people so they can access the information and services they need with a specific emphasis on applying for two programs which financially help disabled Americans—Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). In particular, the agency wants to improve its outreach to the country’s most vulnerable populations, including low income individuals, those with limited English proficiency, mentally ill individuals, or those facing homelessness.
SSA is launching a national campaign to raise awareness of the SSI and SSDI programs and to encourage people to apply. Soon you will be seeing a national ad campaign of TV, radio, and social media public service announcements about Social Security disability programs with a special emphasis on how they can help disabled children.
New online initiatives will include:
In a statement released last month Andrew Saul, Commissioner of Social Security stated, “I made this issue a strategic agency priority and focused resources to reach vulnerable communities and help them access our services and receive their benefits. I ask leaders in every community to share information about our programs with people and help them connect with us to apply for benefits.”
You can help spread the word, too. If you or someone you know has a medical condition which prevents them from working, call the local Chicago Social Security Disability attorneys at Nash Disability Law. We will review their case free of charge. Studies have shown that those who have an attorney have a higher likelihood of approval. Don’t wait – call today!