Research Database: Article Details
| Citation: | Chambless, C.E., Julnes, G., McCormick, S.T., & Reitcher, A. (2011). Supporting work effort of SSDI beneficiaries: Implementation of benefit offset pilot demonstration. Journal of Disability Policy Studies, 22 (3), 179-188. |
| Title: | Supporting work effort of SSDI beneficiaries: Implementation of benefit offset pilot demonstration |
| Authors: | Chambless, C.E., Julnes, G., McCormick, S.T., & Reitcher, A. |
| Year: | 2011 |
| Journal/Publication: | Journal of Disability Policy Studies |
| Publisher: | SAGE |
| DOI: | https://doi.org/10.1177/1044207311407770 |
| Full text: | http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1044207311407770 |
| Peer-reviewed? | Yes |
| NIDILRR-funded? | Yes |
Structured abstract:
| Background: | Historically, it has been unlikely that SSDI recipients will ever earn enough to become independent from this source of income. This is a problem due to the frequent poverty that also accompanies disability status. |
| Purpose: | This article presents information learned from a Social Security Administration funded four-state random assignment policy experiment. A new way of transitioning beneficiaries to gradual independence from SSDI is presented, so that they don't experience the abrupt loss referred to as "cash cliff." SSDI recipient received benefits counseling and comprehensive support from community partners, including referral to other relevant government agencies such as Medicaid and healthcare providers. Connection to these agencies and their resources was made in an effort to reduce the anxiety associated with the loss of SSDI benefits. Challenges and implications associated with this policy change are also discussed. |
| Findings: | Analysis of wages showed that participants in the intervention group were 89.2% more likely to earn Above SGA. Additionally, the intervention appeared to be most effective for those who had earnings in years prior to enrollment in benefits. |
| Conclusions: | With some caution due to associated challenges, a policy change that incorporates benefits counseling and connection with relevant comprehensive support services is indicated in helping those SSDI beneficiaries who wish to increase work effort. |
| Disabilities served: |
Blindness Deafness Visual impairment Multiple disabilities |
| Populations served: |
SSI and SSDI recipients |
| Interventions: |
Benefits counseling Natural supports |
| Outcomes: |
Return to work Wages |