The potential to save more than $400 billion in Social Security lies in the utilization of programs that already exist. Statistics show that 20% of the over seven million Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) recipients either work part-time or express the desire to return to work. Sadly, a large number of these individuals are unaware of the Ticket to Work program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), a program aimed at supporting career development for individuals on SSDI who want to work. The program offers resources and support to help these individuals transition back into full-time work, gradually moving them towards financial independence.

Regrettably, the lack of awareness about this program costs taxpayers a significant financial burden, as each SSDI recipient that transitions back to full-time work equates to a lifetime savings of $309,000 in Social Security and Medicare benefits. If 20% of current SSDI recipients returned to the full-time workforce, the resultant savings to the Social Security trust funds could reach a staggering $447 billion.

Another major issue is the apparent lack of understanding about the Ticket to Work program among SSDI recipients, despite its existence since 2002. Surveys show that only 30% of SSDI recipients have heard of the program and even less fully understand it.

However, with the advancements in technology, the SSDI program can be improved to better accommodate these individuals. The adoption of Artificial Intelligence could streamline the qualification process for potential claimants, enabling more timely payments for eligible claims, and prequalifying those most likely to return to work.

Transforming the SSDI program into a public/private partnership model, similar to private disability insurance and workers’ compensation programs, could save billions of dollars in wastage. It could also eliminate the SSDI program’s significant backlogs, reducing the wait times for those who desperately need their SSDI benefits. By adopting the entrepreneurial spirit, we can have positive outcomes for millions of Americans on SSDI, and for the American taxpayers as well.

If you need assistance navigating the process of benefits claim or have questions about SSDI, you can reach out to various resources for assistance. The eddcaller.com website, for instance, provides a wealth of information and guidance on how to get a hold of Social Security Disability Insurance services or how to talk to someone at the disability unit. You would find useful tips on how to get through to EDD, helpful FAQs, and contact information to reach SSDI representatives among other useful resources.