Major Change to the Social Security Disability Program Affecting Alabama Residents

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(Alabama)- On June 26, 2024, The Social Security Administration (SSA) announced significant updates regarding past relevant work and disability determinations, which are crucial for Alabama residents navigating the complexities of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims.

Current Disability Processing Time: Alabama Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews the medical information submitted to meet disability requirements. As of July 2024, it takes 200 to 230 days for disability applicants to receive an official determination from SSA.

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Understanding Past Relevant Work (PRW): Past Relevant Work refers to the work that individuals have performed in the past 15 years, which was substantial gainful activity and lasted long enough for them to learn how to do it. The SSA evaluates this work to determine if claimants can still perform their previous jobs despite their disabilities.

New Changes to PRW: Effective June 22, SSA began considering work going back 5 years, not 15. Decreasing the relevant work period from 15 to 5 years will make it easier for Alabamians to accurately report work history. The reduction also makes sense given Social Security’s recent efforts to modernize the vocational policy that is used to make disability decisions.

Applying for Benefits: Alabama residents can apply for disability benefits online or by calling the National 800 Number at 1-800-772-1213. Phone lines are open Monday through Friday between 8 am-7 pm.

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