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Are Jobless Straining The Social Security Disability Program?

Posted: September 28, 2010

There are many more jobless filing for social security disability. Applications have increased by 21 % to 2.8 million; from 2008 to 2009 as economic problems continue.

The growth of the program has increased to the highest level in over 50 years. Some say the spike in applications for SSD threatens the very existence of the program.

According to Michael J. Astrue, Social Security Commissioner, “in bad times the rolls are swollen as older workers are often laid off and can’t find work.”

Economists say that the program has grown because eligibility rules were loosened in the 1980’s.

“Many people come to me when their unemployment benefits run out and they have nowhere else to turn,” said Courtney Quinn an attorney who handles many SSD and SSI claims. “Some clients can find an employer who will work around their medical problems. But in a poor economy, those with medical problems might be the first ones to lose their jobs.”

About 50% of all applicants eventually collect disability benefits. The average age of new recipients is 49 years old.

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