For years, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has denied disability benefits using outdated job titles like “nut sorter” and “pneumatic tube operator.” But now, there’s a major update! For the first time in nearly 50 years, the SSA is updating its job database by removing 114 outdated positions. This change will impact how disability benefits are assessed.
Celebrating Disability Pride Month
July is Disability Pride Month, honoring the Americans with Disabilities Act, which was signed into law over 30 years ago. The US Census Bureau estimated in 2021 that about 42.5 million Americans, or nearly 13% of the population, live with disabilities. This includes people with challenges related to walking, hearing, vision, cognitive function, self-care, or independent living.
The SSA’s Role
Since it was founded in 1935, the SSA has provided essential support to retired workers, survivors, disabled individuals, and low-income seniors. Its Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program helps millions of disabled people cover their living expenses since many are unable to work.
Outdated Occupations List
The SSA previously used the Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT) list to assess whether an applicant could work in other jobs. Many of these jobs were outdated and irrelevant. For instance, roles like “barrel assembler” and “reptile farmer” were used to deny benefits. The SSA is now removing 114 such positions from its list. This includes roles like “dance hall host” and “magnetic tape winder,” which federal courts have challenged.
New Criteria for Assessing Disability
The SSA will now use more current and relevant job criteria. The outdated DOT list, which was last updated decades ago, is being replaced. This change is expected to improve how disability benefits are assessed by considering only modern and relevant occupations.
A Forward-Thinking Approach
SSA officials, including Commissioner Martin O’Malley, believe that removing outdated jobs from the list will better reflect today’s job market. This update aims to ensure that the disability determination process is fair and based on current job conditions. It is hoped that this change will make it easier for people with disabilities to qualify for benefits.
Community Reactions
Many disabled Americans are celebrating this update, as it promises to make it easier for them to receive the benefits they need. However, some believe that the damage caused by using outdated job titles in the past may not be easily reversed. The SSA’s update is a step in the right direction, but there is still work to be done to fully address the needs of the disabled community.
The SSA’s update to its job database is a significant step forward in making the disability benefits process more relevant and fair. By removing outdated job titles and focusing on current job roles, the SSA aims to better serve disabled Americans and ensure that the disability benefits system is up-to-date.
1. Why is the SSA updating its job database?
The SSA is updating its job database to remove outdated job titles that have been used to deny disability benefits. This change will make the assessment process more relevant and accurate.
2. What jobs are being removed from the SSA’s list?
The SSA is removing 114 outdated job titles, including roles like “barrel assembler” and “reptile farmer,” which are no longer relevant in today’s job market.
3. How will this update affect disability benefits?
The update is expected to make it easier for people with disabilities to qualify for benefits by using current and relevant job criteria instead of outdated ones.
4. What is Disability Pride Month?
Disability Pride Month is celebrated in July to honor the Americans with Disabilities Act and raise awareness about the challenges faced by people with disabilities.
5. How can I track updates about Social Security benefits?
You can track updates and changes to Social Security benefits by visiting the SSA’s official website at www.ssa.gov.
