Is Improving Incentives To Return To Work The Best Reform?

Critics hoping to reform Social Security Disability Insurance (“SSDI”) point to several statistics over the past several decades that they say demonstrate problems with the system:

  • The number of disability recipients has increased by 50 percent over the past decade
  • 40 years ago, about a fifth received benefits for mental illnesses or musculoskeletal problems; today more than half do (it became easier for patients with mental illnesses to receive disability benefits in the mid 1980s with changes in regulations)
  • Fewer workers – 35 percent in 1981 versus 22.6 percent last year – opt to work even if they have a disability, preferring to receive disability benefits instead

The work-related statistics are often the most troubling for people seeking to reform disability benefits. The incentive to return to work with today’s benefits, they claim, is simply too little. If you have any experience returning to work after receiving disability benefits, we welcome your thoughts below. Would more stringent regulations reduce those taking advantage of the disability system or would it just add another layer of bureaucracy and impede all applicants?

One possible reform might be to have more of a sliding scale for disabled workers who are increasingly able to work. As it stands, once workers start making more than about $1,000 a month, they lose all disability benefits. It is an all or nothing system, so for many disabled workers, working too much might backfire. If they end up earning beyond just $1,000 a month, they could lose their benefits.

Troutman & Troutman, P.C. – Tulsa Social Security Disability law firm

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.