woman at doctor's office for COVID

Here’s How COVID-19 Has Affected Social Security Disability Benefits

The COVID-19 pandemic is arguably the most important issue in the world today. COVID-19, also called the coronavirus, has affected the lives of millions of people worldwide, and it may continue to spread into the foreseeable future. In addition to causing widespread illness and death, COVID-19 has virtually shut down the economies of several countries, leaving millions of people jobless and in desperate need of help. As we explain below, those who have been hit particularly hard by the COVID-19 pandemic are disabled individuals awaiting word on the status of their Social Security disability benefits applications. 

The Coronavirus and Social Security Disability Benefits 

To help those facing financial struggles due to the coronavirus, the government passed a stimulus package earlier this year. As part of the stimulus package, many Americans received stimulus checks. Most recipients of these checks received between $1200 and $2400 depending on filing status. These one-time payments were certainly helpful, particularly to disabled individuals who lack steady income. Unfortunately, despite this assistance, disabled individuals with outstanding Social Security disability benefits applications find themselves in a tough position, as the COVID-19 pandemic has drastically slowed down the Social Security Administration’s ability to process Social Security disability applications. 

Before the pandemic, applications for Social Security disability benefits had a year-long backlog. Earlier this year, all Social Security Administration offices closed to slow the spread of the virus. This has left many Social Security disability applicants in limbo as the Social Security Administration attempts to process applications. 

How to Deal With COVID-19 Social Security Disability Delays

If you suffer from a disability and are awaiting the results of your Social Security disability application, please don’t give up hope. Although the process has slowed down, it hasn’t stopped. And if you suffer from a disability but haven’t yet applied for Social Security disability benefits, you should do so as soon as possible. Waiting to apply will only prolong the process. Either way, you should contact a Texas SSDI and SSI attorney for assistance with your Social Security disability issue. 

Contact Our El Paso SSDI and SSI Attorney 

Although COVID-19 has been tough for everyone, it has been especially difficult for the disabled community. Therefore, if you suffer from a disability in Texas and would like to explore your benefits options, you should contact a Texas SSDI and SSI attorney for assistance. When you choose attorney Jon Sipes to handle your SSDI or SSI claim, he will utilize his extensive knowledge and experience to walk you through the Social Security disability benefits application process. Jon Sipes regularly helps clients in Texas obtain Social Security disability benefits, and he understands what it takes to obtain benefits under the SSDI and SSI programs. Please contact us today to schedule a free consultation.