Social Security: Observations on Demonstration Interviews with Disability Claimants.
Abstract
The demonstration projects, mandated by the Social Security Disability Benefits Reform Act of 1984 (Public Law 98-460), involve fact-to-face interviews for claimants, including applicants at the initial stage in the disability determination (decision) process and current beneficiaries during continuing disability reviews. These interviews, at state agencies for Disability Determination Services, take place before a final decision is made. The projects are intended to test whether there early fact-to-face interviews result in more accurate evaluations of an applicant's condition, assure that all relevant information is obtained, and simplify and expedite the decision-making process. Currently, face-to-face interviews between applicants and examiners do not take place (1) until a decision is made final and (2) generally, unless there is an appeal to an administrative law judge. Disability decisions are made by 54 state agencies, which are known as Disability Determination Services (DDSs). The disability determination process, which is essentially the same for both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income disability and blindness claims, can involve determinations (decisions) at five distinct levels-(1) initial claim or continuing disability review (CDR) decision, (2) first appeal: reconsideration, (3) second appeal: administrative law judge (ALJ), (4) third appeal: Appeals Council, and (5) fourth appeal: civil action. At least two these decision levels provide due process protection to claimants, in accordance with the Constitution and a 1969 Supreme Court decision.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA189211
Entities
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office