Social Security Disability Benefits Limited for Non-English Speakers

Anyone who has applied for government benefits knows that the process isn’t easy. There is so much paperwork involved and so many requirements to meet. In fact, most people get denied the first time. Some give up and lose everything they have. Others keep trying and may try to appeal. Some eventually win, but approval takes a long time.

For those applying for Social Security Disability benefits, there’s now another hurdle involved. On February 24, the Trump Administration finalized a new law that would change how an applicant’s education is assessed. It would require that applicants have some sort of education, besides the ability to speak English, or else they could see their benefits denied.

What this means is that the ability to speak English will no longer be considered a factor of education. This was part of the assessment in the past, as representatives would need to know what other work an applicant could be qualified to do based on their disability.

The new rule goes into effect on April 27. Because it would remove English speaking as a factor of educational attainment, non-English speakers will face more challenges and it will be harder for them to receive Social Security Disability benefits.

The rule was based on a suggestion that the Social Security Administration’s inspector general had in 2015. This requirement was approved in order to update the Social Security Administration’s disability program. The workforce and opportunities available have changed a lot in the past few years, so it’s important that the program’s rules reflect this. The passing of the rule is in line with many proposals President Donald Trump plans to implement tighten work requirements.

But that doesn’t mean everyone agrees with it. Many people—particularly Democrats—oppose this rule. They believe that this will deny many people the benefits they deserve, since older people who speak little or no English have a harder time finding work. Being disabled makes matters even worse, and now that this rule has passed, the Social Security Administration won’t even consider such a situation, unless the applicant happens to have a strong educational background, which is uncommon with immigrants.

It is estimated that 10,000 people will be affected by this rule every year. These workers likely will not be able to afford their bills or even basic everyday needs unless they receive these Social Security Disability benefits. With the agency turning its backs on vulnerable American citizens, what happens next?

Learn More About Social Security Disability Benefits

Obtaining Social Security Disability benefits is very difficult. There are often many hoops that an applicant must go through, and this law will make approval even harder, especially for those who can’t speak English.

Those who apply for these benefits often have no other sources of income and need immediate assistance. Get the help you need from White Plains Social Security disability lawyer Michael Lawrence Varon. To schedule a free consultation, call the office at 914-294-2145.

Resource:

thehill.com/policy/finance/484587-new-social-security-rule-limits-access-to-non-english-speakers

https://www.nycompensationlaw.com/many-national-guardsmen-denied-veterans-benefits/