It likely comes as no surprise to many that the VA, despite the government’s apparent efforts, continues to lack the necessary structure or management strategy to effectively deal with the medical needs of our veterans.
When you add Social Security into the mix, it just gets more confusing and frustrating.
The VA annually rates nearly 8,000 veterans as 100 percent disabled. Many who also seek Social Security disability benefits find themselves among the record 767,595 claims now backlogged in SSA’s hearings offices. At last count, about one in 10 were veterans.
“I can’t sleep, and I can’t work,” says one returning vet, who lives in the suburbs southwest of Portland. “How can being disabled be different for another government agency?”
No one knows how many vets rated unemployable by the VA get turned down for benefits by Social Security. But advocates for the disabled say the problem is widespread.
More than 100 members of Congress are backing bills in the House and Senate that would compel Social Security to accept the VA’s rulings on vets whose service-related disabilities prevent them from working.
“The problem is only going to get worse given all the people we have coming back from our current wars,” says Rep. John Sarbanes, D-Md., who introduced the House bill last year. “They shouldn’t be forced to fight the government for their benefits twice.”
And truly, when more agencies become involved, the problem just spreads out. It does not get solved—just re-directed to some other bureaucrat who cannot make a decision.
It is beyond the pail to accept the moaning from the government agencies that there is not enough money in the system. If we can bailout Bank of America to the tune of 45 billion, we can take care of our veterans, and do ourselves proud as a nation. There are no excuses.
A friend, a proud Vietnam vet (three tours) developed leukemia last year. Because he never had to use the Veteran’s benefit package, and never before applied for services, he was denied. He died six months later.
Semper Fi.
Advocate
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Understanding Continuing Disability Reviews: Key Updates and Guidance
Welcome to our latest blog post where we delve into the critical topic of Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs), which are essential for individuals receiving disability benefits. The focus today is on recent statistics and personal anecdotes that highlight the ongoing importance of staying informed about CDRs.
What is a Continuing Disability Review?
A Continuing Disability Review is a routine process for individuals who have been approved for disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) conducts these reviews to determine if the health of a beneficiary has improved to the point where they can return to work, and thus no longer qualify for benefits.
Recent Case and Discussion
Recently, a case surfaced involving a person who had been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for end-stage kidney failure since they were 20. Despite their condition remaining unchanged, they received a notification of health improvement at age 50 and were at risk of losing their benefits. This situation underscores the unpredictability and significance of understanding the CDR process.
How CDRs Work
During a CDR, beneficiaries might be asked to complete a short or long form detailing their current health status. The forms are then reviewed, and if further information is needed, a full medical review may be initiated. It's crucial for recipients to respond promptly to any communications from the SSA to avoid complications or cessation of benefits.
Statistics and Trends
In 2022, approximately 1.5 million of the estimated 9 million disability recipients underwent CDRs. Of these, about 125,000 had their benefits terminated. These statistics reflect a consistent review rate, with an apparent annual increase in the number of reviews conducted, emphasizing the necessity for beneficiaries to stay vigilant.
Key Takeaways
Stay Informed: Always keep your contact information up to date and pay close attention to all correspondence from the SSA. Missing a notification or failing to respond can lead to benefit termination.
Understand the Review Frequency: Depending on the expectation of medical improvement, reviews may occur more frequently. Typically, conditions considered likely to improve are reviewed sooner and more often.
Prepare Adequately: If a review is scheduled, ensure all medical documentation is current and complete. Understanding the review process and preparing accordingly can significantly affect the outcome.
Seek Expert Advice: Engaging with professionals who specialize in disability rights and CDRs can provide crucial support and guidance. For instance, next week, we will feature an in-depth discussion with Attorney James Mitchell Brown, a veteran in the field of social security disability.
Conclusion
Continuing Disability Reviews are a standard part of the disability benefits process, but they can be daunting. By staying informed, prepared, and proactive, beneficiaries can navigate these reviews successfully. Remember, the goal is not only to retain benefits but also to ensure that the support aligns correctly with the individual’s current health needs.
Stay tuned for more updates and expert insights in our upcoming posts, and don't hesitate to reach out with your questions or for further information.
Brian
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