As most residents of Laurel understand, the recent shutdown of the federal government has had a negative impact on our local economy and residents. Unfortunately for many, a number of government employees have been furloughed as the shutdown drags on.
While Social Security Disability benefits recipients continue to receive their checks, Social Security Administration (SSA) offices in Maryland and around the nation have had to cut back on available services.
The SSA's website said its Administrative Law judges will continue to conduct hearings on SSDI appeals and other matters. Plus, the site noted that Social Security retirement checks, SSDI and Supplemental Security Income payments will all go out in full and on time, as usual.
The SSA offices will also reportedly continue to accept applications for disability benefits, though various media outlets are reporting that there could be delays in processing those applications due to the shutdown.
SSA offices will also continue to accept SSDI benefits appeals requests, the administration's site stated.
Recipients can also continue to modify their address or banking information, as well as make changes to citizenship status or receive a replacement for a lost or missing Social Security check.
In addition, SSI recipients can modify their income statements and clarify their address or living arrangement.
However, the SSA says it's unable to issue new Social Security cards or replace a lost card.
It's also unable to replace a missing Medicare card and is likewise unable to issue anyone a proof of income statement.
While many Americans might not yet feel the impact of the shutdown, those who are prevented from working by illness or injury will certainly feel the impact of any delay in processing disability benefits applications or SSDI appeals.
An experienced SSDI appeals attorney can help ensure an appeal is tailored to meet the requirements of the Social Security Administration.