On February 14, My Fox Phoenix published excerpts from an interview with Michael J. Astrue, the outgoing Social Security Commissioner. Astrue had harsh words for politicians in Washington. However, he also answered some important questions about disability benefits available from the Social Security Administration.
Our Flagstaff AZ disability lawyers were not surprised to hear many of the comments that Astrue made about how and why it is difficult to successfully apply for disability benefits. However, we believe it is important that everyone considering a benefits claim review the answers provided by Astrue to shed some light into what they can expect as they make a claim to obtain disability compensation.
Applying For Disability a Tough Process, Commissioner Reports
The main focus of Astrue’s comments was to caution that the future of the entire Social Security program is in jeopardy due to upcoming budget shortfalls. Astrue indicated that politicians generally treat the program as a political issue and that no one actually has made any substantive changes that could ensure the future longevity of this important program.
However, Astrue also answered some specific questions about disability benefits. For example: