News Archives

Disability Policy Seminar explored the unique challenges and opportunities facing the new 111th Congress and Obama Administration brought about by the 2008 election results and the economic crisis. Conference took place April 27-29, 2009 in Washington, DC.

News release regarding Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security, and President Obama's discussions on the future of entitlement programs, including Social Security. In a report on the financial health of the Social Security Trust Funds issued in 2008, Trustees indicated that, without changes, the Funds will be exhausted by 2041, and there will be enough money to pay only about 78 cents for each dollar of scheduled benefits after 2041.

Every month 730,000 veterans or survivors look for their compensation, pension checks or educational assistance payments in their mailboxes. Nearly all receive them, but theft and mail delays cause problems for some veterans, which can be prevented by direct deposits. You can sign up for direct deposit by calling VA toll-free at (800) 333-1795 or by enrolling online at www.GoDirect.org.

Social Security has announced the national rollout of the agency's Compassionate Allowances Initiative which will expedite the processing of disability claims for applicants whose medical conditions are so severe that their conditions obviously meet Social Security's standards.

The U.S. Department of Labor has joined with the U.S. Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs to launch a Web-based directory to help wounded warriors identify resources available to assist them in transitioning back to civilian life. The "National Resource Directory" encompasses more than 10,000 services and resources. "This directory is valuable for our returning wounded warriors and their positive reintegration back into mainstream American life," said Neil Romano, assistant secretary for the Labor Department's Office of Disability Employment Policy.

SSA has announced that it will be the first government agency to utilize the Nationwide Health Information Network (NHIN). Beginning in early 2009, Social Security will receive medical records for some disability applicants electronically through the NHIN gateway, which is expected to speed up the processing of disability claims.

This report, released on August 11, 2008 by the National Council on Disabilities (NCD), describes financial incentives affecting people with disabilities and presents research findings in key areas such as education and health care. The report also suggests several strategies for securing meaningful employment, career advancement and benefits needed for daily living and accommodations. Download the complete report.

Veterans who last year received disability compensation, pensions or survivors' benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may be entitled to an economic stimulus payment of at least $300. To qualify, veterans must file a tax return for 2007, even if they aren't normally required to file. Information about claiming the economic stimulus payment is available in Package 1040A-3 from the IRS.

On September 25 join us for a special event introducing TARGET Center 2.0 and take a closer look at the newly redesigned Center. Visit the Web Connect site at 9 am EST on September 25th for a special ribbon cutting ceremony with the Secretary of Agriculture. TARGET delivers services to USDA employees in the areas of accessibility, ergonomics and education.

The National Council on Disability (NCD) is gathering public input for a study of emerging issues and trends affecting the lives of people with disabilities. Information gathered will be used in the development of NCD's next annual progress report to the President and Congress. The Council is seeking input on disability issues including health, housing, employment, insurance, transportation, assistive technology, recreation, emergency preparedness, early intervention and education. Suggestions should be sent to NCD by July 22, 2008 via email - type "Emerging Trends" in the subject line.

The Social Security Administration issued final rules designed to improve the Ticket to Work program. The changes will improve the effectiveness of the Ticket program in helping beneficiaries with disabilities who want to return to work.

In preparation for the implementation of the New Ticket to Work Program regulations on July 21, 2008, the Social Security Administration (SSA) and its partners will be conducting several national training sessions to review changes to the program. Interested parties are being asked to save these training dates and participate in the appropriate teleconferences or webinars.

Summary of Medicare benefits, rights and protections and answers to the most frequently asked questions about Medicare.

Report issued on January 15, 2008 by the National Council on Disability (NCD) that examines employment, housing, education, transportation and other federal policies that affect people with disabilities.