Disabled woman applying for social security disability insurance benefits online

How the Pandemic is Impacting Your SSDI Application

By Matthew Imhoff The Social Security Administration made changes to the Social Security Disability Insurance application and hearing processes during the pandemic. This podcast transcript summary reviews the impact of these changes — many of which are positive.   The Social Security Administration was not immune to COVID-19. Like every other aspect of life that…

Patient in examination room facing a long wait to see a physician

How the Physician Shortage is Affecting Those With Disabilities

The physician shortage is a real, persistent, and worsening problem, not only in the United States, but around the globe. Studies suggest that there is currently a worldwide deficit of more than 4.3 million healthcare providers. And it is typically the most vulnerable populations who are most starkly affected, including those individuals who are living…

Illustration of a sad young woman with a dark cloud over her head

Overcoming Barriers to Getting Mental Health Help

In the era of COVID-19, a lot of attention has been given to maintaining physical health. However, mental health challenges are as pressing a concern as physical health, particularly in today’s era of uncertainty and social isolation. Unfortunately, access to consistent and quality mental healthcare is not always easy to find. This article looks at…

3 out of 10 American adults can't pay an unexpected $400 bill without having to carry a balance on their credit card or borrow money from friends, family, or the bank. Choosing Resilience, Living Fully: Open Enrollment 2021

Take Advantage of ALL of Your Employer’s Benefit Offerings

Bob Herum, MSFS, CLU, ChFC, RHU, REBC Editor’s Note: When the leaves start to fall, it’s usually the time for you to enroll in your employer’s benefits offerings. A lot of us focus our time on understanding the health insurance benefits, but you could be leaving a lot of money on the table with that…

Mature woman accessing the Social Security Administration online portal: Choosing Resilience, Living Fully: Open Enrollment 2021

The Positive Impact of COVID-19 on the Social Security Administration

By Michael Mattison Editor’s Note: The Social Security Administration was not immune to COVID-19. Like every other aspect of life that changed with the pandemic, the SSA needed to pivot in order to serve the public.  While this was a daunting task, the organization transitioned into an almost entirely remote workforce over the span of…

Young woman recovering from Covid-19 at home: Choosing Resilience, Living Fully: Open Enrollment 2021

COVID-19: Proving The Value of SSDI to American Workers

By Steve Perrigo Editor’s Note: The far-reaching effects of a global virus mean employees with disabilities need Social Security Disability Insurance benefits more than ever. Thankfully, awareness is growing.   Significant health impacts halted work for many American workers – some estimates reach 11 million – and it’s leading to a search for answers. The…

Millennial office worker discussing open enrollment with HR: Choosing Resilience, Living Fully: Open Enrollment 2021

Millennials: Expecting to Make a Life Change this Year? Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Overlook Open Enrollment

Author: Marquis Smallwood, vice president of Workforce Engagement at MetLife   Editor’s Note: As open enrollment season rolls around on the heels of another challenging pandemic year, many employees are looking at their employer benefits through a new lens. This is particularly true of millennial employees. A new MetLife survey found nearly two-thirds (64 percent)…

group of diverse professional workers over a city background

From The CDA Research Files: The Impact of Remote Work on Absence Rates

Editor’s Note: In this latest installment of The CDA’s ongoing research series, Fred Schott, director of operations and research, provides a summary of findings from the Current Population Survey on the connections among occupations, availability of remote work, and absence.  These findings were presented during September 2021, to the National Association of Supplemental Benefit Insurance 2021…

How to offer a supportive, productive environment during an employee's absence

How To Offer a Supportive, Productive Environment During an Employee’s Absence from Work

By Christina Bridges Editor’s Note: Absence and disability – including a short-term disability – often create uncertainty for both the employer and the employee. Employees are contending with health, wellness, and income concerns; and employers are looking to ensure a smooth return to work, as well as a seamless tracking of the leave. It can…