Since 1956, the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program has been aiding disabled workers with a sufficient work history and paid Social Security taxes before enrolling in the program.
In this article:
- SSDI Benefits Were Enough to Cover the Necessities
- Vallon's Work Options Were Limited
- Vallon Turns to SSDI Again for Help
- The Payment Boost Comes With Consequences
- Louisiana Slashes Food Stamps
- SSDI Payments Disqualify Vallon From Medicare and Medicaid Coverage
- Vallon Has $245 to Spend on Food, Supplements, and Gas Each Month
- Vallon Has Shifted Her Entire Life Around Her Limited Budget
- Vallon Can Barely Afford Necessities
- SSDI Recipients Receive $16,032 a Year
- The Problem Expands to Everyone Receiving Social Security Benefits
A recent change intended to address the rising cost of living has unintentionally made life more difficult for many individuals receiving benefits through the SSDI program.
SSDI Benefits Were Enough to Cover the Necessities
Vanessa Vallon (36) relies on SSDI benefits after a back injury left her temporarily paralyzed in 2019.
Vallon's Work Options Were Limited
Vallon lost her job after struggling with her health, leaving her with limited work options in an already tough job market.
Vallon Turns to SSDI Again for Help
With bills piling and the cost of living on the rise, Vallon decided to apply for SSDI benefits again.
The Payment Boost Comes With Consequences
Vallon had hoped the boost in payments would make life easier after Social Security's cost of living increased 8.7 percent.
Louisiana Slashes Food Stamps
The state of Louisiana notified Vallon that it would significantly reduce her food stamps from $291 per month to just $23 per month.
SSDI Payments Disqualify Vallon From Medicare and Medicaid Coverage
Vallon's increased income from the program put her above the threshold, making her responsible for coinsurance costs.
Vallon Has $245 to Spend on Food, Supplements, and Gas Each Month
Vallon went with a Medicare Advantage plan this year, getting a spending benefit card of $245 a month.
Vallon Has Shifted Her Entire Life Around Her Limited Budget
Vallon has had to restructure her entire life to save money, relying on her boyfriend's support when grocery costs exceed budget.
Vallon Can Barely Afford Necessities
Vallon has to reevaluate her entire budget for any car, house, or pet needs.
SSDI Recipients Receive $16,032 a Year
Vallon says expecting anyone to live on $16,032 a year without food help is a cruel joke.
The Problem Expands to Everyone Receiving Social Security Benefits
The Social Security Administration's payment increase affects not only SSDI recipients but seniors receiving Social Security benefits broadly.