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Committee on Ways and Means
Subcommittee on Social Security

For Immediate Release
Contact: Press Office 202-225-8933
June 10, 2002

WASHINGTON- The Social Security Administration’s (SSA) process of applying for and obtaining disability benefits has been criticized as being extremely complex and time-consuming. With more baby boomers applying for benefits, the stress on the process will soon grow more intense.

This week, lawmakers will review the steps the agency has taken to streamline the application and approval process. The SSA has already spent $110 million developing and implementing specific improvements. The Subcommittee will consider additional enhancements offered by the Social Security Advisory Board, the General Accounting Office, employee organizations, advocates, and experts.

“Individuals with disabilities, already burdened by the challenges of their illness or injury, are often in desperate need of benefits to replace lost income,” Social Security Subcommittee Chairman E. Clay Shaw (R-FL) said. “They deserve to receive timely and accurate decisions through a fair and clear process. Our long-term challenge is to construct the disability determination and appeals process so that it best meets the needs of individuals with disabilities and their families.”