Social Security Disability: Where Are Recipients Located and Why?

There are currently more than 10 million Americans who depend on Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits as their main source of income, and data indicates some areas of our nation see higher rates of beneficiaries than others. This leaves many citizens questioning which factors affecting Social Security Disability claims may be causing concentrated disabled populations in certain regions.

Records from the Social Security Administration (SSA) indicate the southeastern section of our country has the highest population of SSD recipients. West Virginia had the greatest number of disabled citizens, while Alabama follows closely in second with nearly 300,000 people benefiting from the system. Arkansas, Kentucky, and Mississippi rounded out the top five states with disabled citizens.

So, what is causing so many people in the south to be considered disabled? Researchers from the SSA believe it may be tied to injuries causing physical pain. Many state economies in the south rely on physically-intensive labor, such as mining or construction, which can lead to musculoskeletal disorders and other painful disabilities. An article from Al.com states roughly 30 percent of all disability claims stem from pain-related issues, and the states with the greatest disability rates also see the highest percentages of prescriptions for painkillers.

At Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin, our Social Security Disability lawyers have helped people from all across the nation get the benefits they deserve. We pride ourselves in helping others and are here to assist you as well. Call us at (800) 477-7315 to learn more.