As you all are aware, the government shut down on October 1, 2013, due to Congress’ inability to come to a resolution on an appropriations bill. An agreement has not yet been reached. What this means is that non-excepted government employees (approximately 800,000) have been furloughed and certain Federal agencies are operating with only staff members who are deemed essential.
The good news is that part of the Social Security Administration remains operational. Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income (“SSDI/SSI”) beneficiaries will continue to receive checks. Individuals can still apply for SSDI/SSI benefits. SSDI/SSI claims can still be appealed. Most other work at the local SSA offices will be suspended. This includes requesting a duplicate Social Security card.
Hearings
that were previously scheduled at the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review
(“ODAR”) will still take place if the Judge’s clerk was able to prepare the
hearing file before the shutdown occurred. No other hearings will be scheduled,
however, and no decisions or other correspondences will be written. The ODAR
will be operating with a skeletal staff.
The Appeals Council will not be reviewing any cases at all.
For more informational on the government shutdown and how it affects SSA, please visit:
Got a question that you need answered? Please check out our website at www.westcoastdisability.com . We try to provide you with valuable information on our website that may help you navigate the Social Security Disability process. Also, feel free to shoot us an email at info@westcoastdisability.com or call us at (800) 459-3017.
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