Social Security Disability Stigma

It’s Not a Handout, It’s an Insurance Policy

The time has come for people to stomp out the stigma surrounding Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).

Although this Federal Insurance has become an essential and increasingly prominent source of cash assistance for decades, many deserving beneficiaries shy away from applying for disability benefits for different reasons. Millions of Americans do not recognize Social Security Disability Insurance’s value.

There are people going through a dire financial situation who qualify for SSDI, but they are embarrassed about the idea of applying for insurance benefits.

Social Security Disability Stigma

Most anticipatory fears of being labeled, separated, stereotyped, or discriminated against for accessing the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) originate from stigmas. The embarrassment of being associated with such stigmas have created a negative self-perception and a feeling of shame in applying for SSDI.

A shift in public discourse on the people’s perception of government assistance remains essential in promoting these life-changing benefits to millions of Americans. Let’s debunk one of the outdated misconceptions that SSDI is a handout.

The Myth: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Is a Handout

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is not a handout but an insurance policy that promotes tolerance and disability inclusion. It is an earned insurance benefit that every worker among the 150 million with FICA payroll tax contribution can access. Therefore, this valuable insurance is not free because the workers’ funds cover it. This source ensures that this fund does not become an extra burden to taxpayers.

Additionally, the Social Security Administration (SSA) mandates stringent regulations to ensure that the fund benefits deserving individuals. SSDI beneficiaries must present medical documentation that aligns with the required severity to qualify. Statistics by the Social Security Administration (SSA) show that at least 8 million Americans receive SSDI. Although these numbers fluctuate, they represent approximately 5% of the population with access to these benefits. A strict selection criterion by the SSA ensures that deserving beneficiaries are the only ones that benefit from this valuable insurance.

The Compassionate Allowances List

Social Security Administration (SSA) determines the individuals that qualify for SSDI benefits. SSI covers a wide variety of disabilities and conditions. However, the applicant’s condition or disease must meet the statutory’s standard for disability.

The Acting Commissioner of Social Security recently announced at least 12 new Compassionate Allowance Conditions. The compassionate allowance program allows the agency to identify claims for conditions and diseases often severe and qualify for SSDI based on medical diagnosis confirmation alone. The 12 additional conditions that can trigger SSDI benefits include the following:

  • Your Content Goes Here
  • Renal Amyloidosis – AL Type
  • Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm
  • Microvillus Inclusion Disease – Child
  • NUT Carcinoma
  • Mowat-Wilson Syndrome
  • Myelodysplastic Syndrome with Excess Blasts
  • Pontocerebellar Hypoplasia
  • Gerstmann-Straussler-Scheinker Disease
  • Pfeiffer Syndrome – Types II and III
  • Posterior Cortical Atrophy
  • Angioimmunoblastic T-cell Lymphoma
  • Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma

Individuals with disabilities should get the help they need and deserve without being subjected to stigma. If you are a person with a disability, a family member, or a caretaker of people with a disability, do not be ashamed to ask for help. At Social Benefit Advisors, you will get assistance in maximizing your benefits. Besides, we will help you understand the restrictions and obligations you will have after you start receiving your benefits. Schedule a call today and begin your journey to receiving your SSDI benefits today!