Social Security benefits are a lifeline for many American seniors, as well as individuals with disabilities and those with lower incomes. The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) programs in particular help support those who might be unable to work. During the COVID-19 pandemic, as Social Security offices closed, it became harder to get help from a representative. However, some new programs are ensuring that beneficiaries can access the help they need.
At NORA, we hope that these new programs make a difference. However, there are more steps that Congress needs to take to ensure seniors receive all of the benefits they’ve earned.
How the Social Security Administration’s New Programs Can Help
The Social Security Administration has started several outreach programs to make it easier for seniors to find out more about their benefits and talk to a representative when they need to. Some of the ways these new programs can help are by making it easier to apply for Social Security benefits, to get assistance with online resources, and to raise awareness of the various types of benefits.
- An advertising campaign to raise awareness of different types of benefits
- Outreach websites that make it easier for people to help others access Social Security programs
- New training procedures for community-based caseworkers to help people access resources
Learn more from Investopedia’s article “Social Security COVID-19 Outreach.”
More About NORA’s Mission
NORA is fighting to ensure that seniors are repaid for the low or nonexistent cost-of-living adjustments of recent years. With more and more Baby Boomers retiring each week, it’s more important than ever to guarantee a 3% cost-of-living adjustment each year. American seniors have worked hard, and receiving benefits that reflect the rising cost of living expenses is vital.
We’re asking Congress to pass The Guaranteed 3% COLA for Seniors Act, and we also want them to make this bill retroactive to 2010. Some retirees could receive thousands of dollars in unpaid benefits. Join us as we fight for our nation’s retirees by signing our online petition. Then follow us on Twitter and Facebook for more updates!
