Disability Benefits Face New Hurdles Amidst Federal Changes

Millions of Americans who rely on Social Security disability benefits are encountering increased difficulties accessing crucial financial assistance. Recent changes to the federal benefits system, including staff reductions and administrative overhauls enacted beginning in 2025, are creating significant barriers for those seeking support, according to a new report from Binghamton University researchers.

Increased Barriers to Access

A report, “A Qualitative Investigation of Barriers to Disability Benefits in 2025,” co-authored by Matthew Borus of Binghamton University, Katie Savin of California State University, Sacramento, and Callie Freitag of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, highlights the growing challenges faced by individuals applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The study, published jointly by The Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF) and the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), found that the system is now harder to navigate than ever before.

“The large takeaway is that an already difficult-to-navigate system is now harder to engage with, and that means that people in need, including the 16 million people served by these two programs, have a harder time getting desperately needed cash assistance that they’re entitled to through these programs,” explained Borus according to Binghamton University News.

Impact of Government Changes

The changes stem from actions taken by the second Trump administration and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). These changes include reductions in staffing levels and significant administrative restructuring within the Social Security Administration. The report is based on interviews with 52 attorney and non-attorney benefits specialists across 32 organizations that assist claimants in obtaining and maintaining disability benefits.

Binghamton University Long-Term Disability Benefits

For employees of Binghamton University, long-term disability insurance is available to full-time and eligible part-time employees. The University covers the full cost of the program. Benefits are equivalent to 60% of an employee’s monthly salary, with a maximum payment of $7,500 per month as outlined by Human Resources. These benefits are subject to reduction based on other income sources, such as Social Security disability or workers’ compensation.

Understanding Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

SSDI is a social insurance-based benefit administered by the Social Security Administration. It provides assistance to individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes and who are unable to perform due to a disability according to DREDF.

Key Takeaways

• Recent federal changes have made it more difficult to access Social Security disability benefits.
• Staff reductions and administrative overhauls are primary contributors to these increased barriers.
• Approximately 16 million Americans rely on SSDI and SSI for financial assistance.
• Binghamton University employees have access to long-term disability insurance benefits.