According to data presented by the Social Security Administration (SSA), the number of people receiving the benefit of federal payments has decreased, by approximately 13,500, in the month of March there were about 7.27 million beneficiaries of federal payments compared to 7.284 million the previous month, the main requirement to qualify is age, last month there were approximately 1.115 million.
For the month of February the number was lower, it reached almost 1,113 million, those who are considered blind and with some disability who receive some benefits decreased for the month of March to 6,156 million, from 6,171 million in the month of February, those who receive the Social Security benefits and are under 18 are also decreasing, from 989,000 to about 982,000 the previous month.
Groups from 18 years to 64 years that have received benefits from the federal government reached 3.96 million, a small decrease in reference to the month of February of 3.972 million, in the group of over 65 years the numbers were 2.328 million approximately in the month of March, while in the month of February it was higher, of 2.323 million.
Why Are Users Being Removed From Social Security?
As of today, there is no clarity on what was the factor that generated the decrease in the number of people receiving the federal payment throughout the month. Many older adults in the United States depend on Social Security payments to make ends meet when it comes to their daily expenses, the week before it was published that retirees will be able to receive better income from the Social Security, it is believed that the cost of living adjustment will be 3%, as part of an action for high inflation.
These numbers are higher than predicted by some who expected it to be about 2% by 2025. The issue of inflation in the United States has remained much higher than the central bank’s target of 2% after soaring to 40-year highs after the Covid-19 pandemic.
The inflation of the consumer price index (CPI) in the month of June 2022 presented an increase of almost 9%, which means that it is the largest increase since the month of November 1981.
Borrowing costs have increased and the conditions for reducing spending have been somewhat tightened, which the authorities in charge hope will lead to a decrease in prices, Price increases have slowed to 3.5 percent in March, a situation that for the central bank still does not reach the targets, since US citizens still face high prices on goods and services.
Specialists are asking whether a 3% cost of living adjustment is enough in the midst of price increases.
“I’m just not sure if that’s going to be enough,” finance expert Michael Ryan said last week. “Older people are already struggling to cover basic needs such as medical care, food, and housing. This increase may provide some relief, but I am concerned that it still does not fully protect their purchasing power.”
If you’ve been denied benefits from the Social Security, you can file an appeal
To appeal a decision from the Social Security Administration (SSA) denying you benefits, follow these steps:
- Request for Reconsideration: Submit a written request for reconsideration within 60 days of receiving the denial letter. Include any additional information or documents that support your case.
- Complete Forms: Fill out the necessary forms provided by the SSA for the appeal process. This may include Form SSA-561 (Request for Reconsideration) and Form SSA-3441 (Disability Report – Appeal).
- Provide Supporting Evidence: Gather medical records, doctor’s statements, and any other relevant documents that demonstrate your eligibility for benefits. Include these with your appeal.
- Consultation: If necessary, seek legal advice or consult with an advocate who specializes in Social Security disability cases. They can provide guidance and support throughout the appeal process.
- Submit Appeal: Send your appeal forms, supporting evidence, and any additional documents to the SSA according to their instructions. Keep copies of everything you submit for your records.
- Follow Up: Stay informed about the status of your appeal by regularly checking for updates from the SSA. Be prepared to provide any further information or attend hearings if requested.
- Appeal Hearing: If your request for reconsideration is denied, you have the right to request an appeal hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). Prepare thoroughly for the hearing and present your case effectively.
