The Evolution of the Social Security Disability Program

The U.S. Social Security Disability program was established in 1956 as a way to provide citizens who suffered from a disabling mental or physical condition for longer than one year with a sustainable income. Since that time, some aspects of the program have changed, while others have stayed the same. The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently took a closer look at how the program has evolved over the years, as well as which aspects remain in their original form.

While many of the requirements for receiving Social Security Disability benefits have stayed the same, such as suffering from one of many eligible disabling conditions, more workers than ever before are participating in the program. The amount each disabled worker receives has also increased over time.

A few things that have not changed over the years include the fact that most disabled workers have a long work history in our country and a majority of claimants are older.

The SSA report shows as many as 75 percent of Social Security Disability recipients had earned as many as 80 percent of the available credits towards benefits since they were 21-years-old. Also, a total of 72 percent of those participating in the program were age 50 or older.

The success of the Social Security Disability program is important to each staff member at Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin. The Social Security Disability lawyers are hopeful to see the program continue to function as it was intended in the future as well.