SSDI Recipients Suffer From Benefit Delays

It is no secret that it can be difficult and daunting to start receiving Social Security Disability Insurance. The process is long, hard enough without the Social Security Administration’s backlog on applications, and processing of claims.

Grant Sterling, a Crestline resident, suffers from Prinzmetal angina. He describes his heart condition as if his heart is misfiring and it feels like a heart attack. Sterling applied for Social Security Disability Insurance or SSDI in 2006, as he was unable to go back to work. Due to the agency’s backlog, it took him more than three and a half years before he received his first disability check.

A part of that long process included applying for disability benefits, and plenty of doctor’s visits plus countless pieces of paper. However, a big part of the delay came from a decision by former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s decision to give state workers two to three unpaid days off each month.

As of Nov. 30 of 2010, 84,000 initial applications for SSDI delayed due to furloughs and more than $23 million in monthly benefits experienced delays. Gov Schwarzenegger’s decision came due to state’s monetary and budget crisis.

The new Governor Jerry Brown received a letter, asking him to ensure the SSDI processors were exempt from furloughs, pay freezes or overtime restrictions. The Governor’s decision to include SSDI processors in the state’s budget repairs affected many families who depended on their SSDI benefits.

Categories

    I didn't think there was a caring professional considerate attorney firm on the planet, but Troutman & Troutman proved me wrong. From the receptionist to the legal assistance to the attorney and more they were exceptional people.

    - Robert S.

    They did a fantastic job getting everything gathered up and getting the trial done as quickly as possible. Anytime I had a question they were patient and help me understand what was going on. Especially Christy and Charlie were great.

    - Michael M.

    Steve Troutman was able to get my short-term and long-term disability for me. Then Erin another lawyer for their firm got my Social security disability for me. Great people.

    - Billy S.

    Mr. Troutman walked me through the entire process. Heather was available each time I called, answered all my crazy questions, and helped me fill out forms along the way. I was never treated like I was wasting time.

    - Julia C.

    Erin and Keith were fabulous! They were compassionate, helpful, and very responsive! They made the process very smooth and painless every step of the way.

    - Valerie W.

We Are Here to Help 

Free & Confidential Consultations
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.