The Advocator Group has assisted tens of thousands of individuals throughout the process of applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits so that these men and women can continue to financially support their families despite a disabling illness or injury keeping them out of work. Losing one’s income Is stressful enough without having to go through the complicated, and often lengthy, process of applying for SSDI benefits. While The Advocator Group takes pride in being able to help someone obtain their SSDI award, we are also thrilled to see disabled workers that we have assisted ultimately get healthy and return to work later on, as this often brings feelings of accomplishment and relief back to them and their families.

Collecting SSDI benefits does not mean one will remain out of work for their entire life, but these benefits are often a crucial step in the journey toward recovery and being able to return to work—whether that is back to the same job one did in the past or if it means learning a new skill.  We created an infographic to celebrate October being National Disability Employment Awareness Month that gives a very abbreviated overview of the development of modern day SSDI benefits, how they could impact you and your family, and how The Advocator Group can help you, or a friend or family member, who has found themselves suddenly unable to work due to an illness or injury.

As part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, The Advocator Group is happy to help raise awareness of the rights, accomplishments, and tremendous impact of (currently or previously) disabled men and women in the American workforce. Disability plays a large role in the diversity of the workplace, and by enabling individuals with physical or mental limitations to challenge themselves and use their skills, strong relationships are built and workers are empowered and inspired to think creatively and innovate.

The Department of Labor emphasizes the value of a diverse workforce that is inclusive of all members’ skills and talents, and utilizes the month of October to promote education and awareness about the constantly evolving role that disabilities play in the American workplace. Unfortunately, disabled men and women were not always freely permitted to work, or given compensation and opportunity equal to their peers. History is still evolving, but we have come so far in terms of how we enable men and women with various limitations to do jobs we wouldn’t have thought were possible for them just 10 years ago. Visit the Department of Labor’s website to learn more about the history and legislation around disabilities in the workforce, as well as inspiring stories of accomplished disabled workers today.

Nothing in this post is intended as advice or a suggestion to elect or not elect to claim benefits of any kind, including Social Security benefits, nor is it intended as financial advice in any way.  The decision to claim benefits is a personal one that is contingent upon each individual’s unique circumstances.