Social Security Disability Beneficiaries with Work-Related Goals and Expectations

Social Security Bulletin, Vol. 71, No. 3, pp. 61-82, 2011

22 Pages Posted: 16 Aug 2011 Last revised: 25 Apr 2015

Date Written: August 1, 2011

Abstract

This study examines working-age Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income beneficiaries who report having work goals or expectations, referring to these individuals as "work-oriented." The study uses data from the 2004 National Beneficiary Survey matched to administrative data spanning 2004–2007 to identify work-oriented beneficiaries and to analyze their sociodemographic, health, and employment characteristics, as well as their earnings-related benefit suspensions and terminations. Relative to other disability beneficiaries, the 40 percent classified as work-oriented were younger and more educated, had been on the disability rolls a shorter time, had lower income from public assistance, and were healthier. Just over half had recently engaged in work or in work preparation activities at interview, about half had earnings at some point during 2004–2007, and 10 percent left the disability rolls because of earnings for at least 1 month during that period. The findings show that a large share of beneficiaries have work goals, most are attempting to work, and many experience some success.

Keywords: disability, employment, ticket to work, social security

JEL Classification: J20

Suggested Citation

Livermore, Gina A., Social Security Disability Beneficiaries with Work-Related Goals and Expectations (August 1, 2011). Social Security Bulletin, Vol. 71, No. 3, pp. 61-82, 2011, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1896370

Gina A. Livermore (Contact Author)

Mathematica Policy Research ( email )

600 Maryland Ave SW
Suite 550
Washington, DC 20024
United States

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