Government Shutdown – what does it mean for Social Security Disability Payments?

Individuals who have either filed for Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) and are awaiting review, or are already collecting SSDI benefits, are naturally wondering how the October 1, 2013 shutdown of the government will affect them.

 

"How can disabled Americans successfully get their Social Security benefits if the Federal Government shuts down ?" is a burning question in the legal community notes leading Northern Virginia Social Security lawyer Doug Landau, shown here before teaching on the American Association for Justice legal education program
“How can disabled Americans successfully get their Social Security benefits if the Federal Government shuts down ?” is a burning question in the legal community, notes leading Northern Virginia Social Security lawyer Doug Landau, shown here before teaching on the American Association for Justice 2013 legal education program in New Orleans, LA

The Social Security Administration (SSA) will continue limited service in its Offices of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODARs).  This means that although any previously scheduled hearings are expected to be conducted until further notice, no new hearings will be scheduled.  Additionally, claim records will not be prepared or developed.

The Appeals Council will not be reviewing any cases. Field Office and Department of Disability Services (DDS) employees will continue to process initial applications and requests for reconsideration; most other work will be suspended. Monthly payments to current beneficiaries will be made.

We urge our clients to check the SSA website frequently for updates.

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