Many people in Pennsylvania, and throughout the country, rely on Social Security as they have no other source of income. Those who are unable to work have relied on this system for economic security for 80 years. It is reported that Social Security payments nationwide totaled $71.7 billion in 2014. These payments were made for retirement, survivor and disability benefits.
However, there is concern over the future of the Social Security system. It is forecast that the annual cost of the system will exceed its income within the next five years. To boost longevity of the system, some are in favor of raising the current retirement age along with implementing a Social Security tax. Others believe Social Security must be privatized to allow each worker to manage his or her own retirement funds by investing their money as they choose. Critics of this suggestion warn that this is a risky and complicated business, and uninformed or bad individual decisions can result in the loss of retirement funds.
Nevertheless, while the future of the Social Security system is unsure, workers will continue to become disabled. This can be a severe setback, and those who have paid into the system and suffer an illness, injury or disability that prevents them from continuing a career have the right to benefit from years of contributions. They are entitled to receive Social Security Disability Insurance benefits.
For most people, it is important to start receiving the benefits as soon as possible after becoming unable to work, but the legal process can be complicated. It is not uncommon for claims to be denied or questioned, and the services of an experienced Pennsylvania Social Security attorney may considerably benefit the chances of a successful claim. A lawyer can provide assistance with the initial claim as well as any appeals of denials and obtaining medical confirmation to show the legitimacy of a claim.
Source: timesleader.com, “Seniors reflect on benefits of Social Security“, Steve Mocarsky, Aug. 16, 2015