According to a recent report by Bloomberg, the Social Security disability insurance program is in worse financial shape than its Social Security retirement fund cousin. SSDI trustees predict insolvency may hit the program in just four years. Despite this somber report, it appears that lawmakers in D.C. are doing little to address the problem.

The two words most commonly connected to the projected Social Security shortfall: baby boomers. While their looming retirement has caused many to fear shortages in retirement benefits, in actuality, many of these 77 million Americans will reach disability first. At age 50, individuals become more likely to become disabled and look to the social security disability insurance program for relief.

Another culprit for the fund's financial woes appears to be the economy. As more and more people lose their jobs, some people have applied for Social Security disability insurance benefits to see whether they are eligible.

As a result of many factors, disability claims have risen by more than 30 percent since 2007. If necessary, Congress may ultimately move revenue from elsewhere in the government to fund the program, as was done in 1994.

While the SSDI program is not perfect, SSDI plays a very important role in the lives of many D.C. area residents who need these benefits in order to make ends meet.

While the news headlines may be filled with reports forecasting the demise of Social Security programs, local experienced attorneys can still help disabled workers secure the relief to which they are entitled.

Source: Bloomberg, "Congress unwilling to address disability plan's shortfall," Brian Faler, May 29, 2012