Do Vulnerable Groups Experience Differences Navigating the Disability Determination Process?

Michael Anderson, Mathematica and Seth Hartig, U.S. Social Security Administration

The application process for disability benefits can be complex, and marginalized groups may have more difficulty completing the required steps. This study will use the Disability Analysis File (DAF) to examine whether potentially marginalized applicants – based on their race, sex, rural residence, and English language literacy – experience differential outcomes in the disability determination process. It will also explore how having an appointed representative may contribute to or mitigate differences across groups. The results of this work will support SSA’s efforts to improve customer service and inform its Equity Action Plan.