Social Security Rolls Out Nationwide Case Management Amid Staffing Cuts
The federal government has two competing goals for the Social Security Administration: to cut down wait times and speed up processing, and to dramatically cut staffing. In 2025, the agency cut thousands of employees, many through incentives to resign or retire. By the end of the year, the SSA was about 12% smaller–but the workload hadn’t decreased.
The government announced the rollout of two systems designed to increase efficiency across all operations. One is the National Appointment Scheduling Calendar (NASC), and the other National Workload Management (NWLM). Both are intended to streamline processes and keep Social Security applications and other matters moving forward efficiently. And, some features may do that. For example, under the new system, applicants will be able to schedule their own initial Social Security disability (SSD) application interviews online. But many are familiar with the operations of the SSA and the new systems are concerned.
Perhaps those concerns were heard, because the rollout scheduled for March 7 was rescheduled to April 13, and now the rollout has been pushed again–this time without a new target date. The new plan is to roll the systems out “later this year.”
How the New Systems Will Work for Social Security Disability Applicants
As mentioned above, Social Security applicants will be able to schedule their own initial appointments with the SSA. That’s just one of many changes that Social Security is making to encourage applicants and recipients to use self-service options online. But some SSA employees are worried about how the new systems will impact service and accuracy. And some of those issues have already occurred as staff have been moved around and calls rerouted. In late 2025, we reported on some of the problems SSD applicants and SSA staff were already experiencing.
Under the old system, when someone applied for SSD or SSI, their local office handled those applications. That means the staff they worked with knew the state-specific aspects of the process.
For example, the maximum federal SSI benefit is quite low–in 2026, $994 for an elderly or disabled individual who may have no other source of income. Some states, but not all, offer a supplement to the federal SSI payment. The amount of the payment and how it is calculated differ from state to state. Processes differ, too. For instance, some states have partnered with the SSA to have the combined benefits distributed in a single check. Others send a separate payment to the recipient.
Until the changes began in 2025, a Florida applicant would be working with a Florida staff member who exclusively handled Florida cases. That employee would know that the state didn’t offer a general supplement to SSI. On the other hand, a staffer in Chicago who dealt only with Illinois cases would know the state offered a supplement, how that supplement was calculated, and when and how the recipient could expect to receive it.
With the rerouting of calls, a Florida employee might pick up a call from Illinois and have no idea about the SSI supplement. This is where the new “efficiency” can break down fast. When the person handling the call doesn’t have the necessary information, they either have to invest time to find it or have to take a message and try to connect the caller with someone who has more information.
Even without full implementation of the new systems, the SSA admitted that some employees were reporting being unable to assist callers from outside their local areas.
What Will the New Systems Change?
The official word is that when NWLM is implemented as a central hub for all work, that work will be distributed based on “skillset, knowledge, and availability.” If that’s true, it could be an improvement on the partial changes that have been implemented so far. But that remains to be seen.
Cutting Down on In-Person Contact
The two platforms that will roll out later this year are part of a larger plan to push more SSD applicants and others who have business with the SSA to self-service options. They’ve updated their phone menus to allow for certain tasks to be completed through the automated phone system, and have added online options like the appointment scheduling mentioned above. An early plan to cut back phone services was shelved after many expressed concerns about forcing elderly Social Security recipients into online self-service options. It’s estimated that 15-25% of seniors don’t have internet access at home, and that number is much higher among lower-income seniors.
Still, the stated goal is to reduce in-person field office interactions by 50%. That’s particularly concerning in light of the fact that the SSA has been closing field offices, while insisting that they are only eliminating those offices that are “underutilized.” That’s already problematic because some SSD applicants and others need in-person assistance, and some types of tasks can currently only be handled in person. For example, applicants are often required to show original identifying documents. The simplest way to handle this has always been to show them in person at the SSA office.
If the SSA is successful in cutting back the use of field offices, the number of underutilized offices will increase, potentially further decreasing the number of field offices available and significantly increasing the distance a person will have to travel if they need to visit one in person.
What Does This Mean for SSD Applicants?
The exact impact of the changes remains to be seen, and we don’t know what adjustments may be underway during the rollout delay. But we can expect some complications and confusion in the transition, and there are already reports of frustrations in getting questions answered.
At Disability Help Group, our advocates have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the process. Whether you are just preparing to apply for Social Security disability or you have applied and been denied,our advocates are here for you. To learn more about how we can help you at any stage of the SSD application and appeals process, call 800-800-3332 right now or fill out our contact form HERE for a FREE case evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What changes is the Social Security Administration making to disability applications?
The SSA is rolling out new systems, National Appointment Scheduling Calendar (NASC) and National Workload Management (NWLM), to streamline processes. These changes include more online self-service options, such as scheduling disability application appointments online.
Why is the SSA cutting staff while trying to improve processing times?
The federal government is aiming to reduce costs while increasing efficiency. However, staffing has been reduced by about 12% without a decrease in workload, raising concerns about longer wait times and reduced service quality.
How will the new SSA systems affect SSD applicants?
The new systems may make some processes faster, but they could also create confusion. Work may no longer be handled by local offices, meaning applicants could speak with representatives unfamiliar with their state-specific benefits and procedures.
Will it be harder to get help from Social Security in person?
Possibly. The SSA aims to reduce in-person visits by up to 50% while expanding online and automated services. This could make it more difficult for individuals who need face-to-face assistance or lack internet access.
What should I do if I’m applying for Social Security Disability during these changes?
Be prepared for possible delays or confusion during the transition. Keeping thorough documentation and working with an experienced advocate like Disability Help Group can help ensure your application is accurate and complete.
How Disability Help Group’s Leadership Training Improves Support for SSDI Claims
At Disability Help Group, everything we do is focused on helping people navigate the Social Security Disability (SSDI) process with confidence. That’s why our leadership team recently took part in an intensive two-day training designed to strengthen how we lead, communicate, and support our teams.
Because at the end of the day, better leadership means better support for the people who rely on us.
Why Leadership Matters in the SSDI Process
If you’ve ever applied for Social Security Disability benefits, you know it’s not exactly simple. Between paperwork, deadlines, and potential denials, the process can feel overwhelming fast.
That’s where a strong team really makes a difference, and strong teams start with strong leadership.
This training focused on improving how leaders communicate with their teams, stay aligned, and keep the focus where it belongs: on the people going through the SSDI application or appeals process. When that foundation is solid, it makes everything smoother for the clients we’re helping every day.
Stronger Teams At Disability Help Group
The first day of training was led by Dr. Ben Sorensen, President and CEO of Sorensen Consulting, Inc. and a U.S. Navy Reserve Chaplain.
He worked closely with the team on real, practical ways to improve communication, strengthen team alignment, and build a high-performing culture. Nothing theoretical, just tools leaders can actually use day to day while supporting people through SSDI claims and appeals.
“The customized training provided actionable communication strategies that can easily be applied in how we lead and engage our teams.” – Natale Burns Managing Advocate
Led by Dr. Justin Habash, the session explored what it truly means to lead with integrity, courage, commitment, and sacrifice, not just in theory, but in real-life situations.
Through hands-on exercises, the team at Disability Help Group worked through challenging scenarios and made decisions under pressure, the kind of thinking that translates directly to guiding teams who are helping clients through complex Social Security Disability claims.
One of the most impactful moments was hearing from Gary L. Littrell, a retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major, alongside Suzanne Rampe Littrell. With fewer than 70 living Medal of Honor recipients in the U.S., it was a rare chance to hear firsthand what leadership under pressure really looks like.
What This Means for SSDI Clients
This wasn’t just a leadership event, it’s something that directly impacts the people we serve.
By continuing to invest in our leadership, Disability Help Group is making sure our team is better equipped to help with every part of the Social Security Disability process, from initial applications to appeals after a denial.
That means clearer communication, stronger support, and a more personal approach for every client.
Here When You Need Help with Your SSDI Claim
If you’re trying to apply for Social Security Disability benefits or dealing with a denied claim, you don’t have to figure it out on your own.
The team at Disability Help Group, ranked among the top 10 Social Security Disability advocacy groups nationwide, is here to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help you move forward with confidence.
CLICK HERE for a free case evaluation and take the next step toward getting the SSDI benefits you deserve.
Big Changes in 2026: Expanded Financial Benefits for Americans with Disabilities
Social Security disability (SSD) provides critical income for people who are no longer able to work due to a medical condition. Those are earned benefits accrued across your working life, and offer an important safety net. But SSD benefits are just one piece of the financial puzzle.
People with disabilities often face financial challenges, especially if they are dependent on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid. That’s because what is typically considered responsible financial management, such as building an emergency savings account, can disqualify a person from receiving those benefits.
At the same time, a person living with disabilities may need that safety net even more. According to a report from the National Disability Institute, on average a disabled person needs about 28% more income than a non-disabled person to sustain the same standard of living.
For more than a decade, certain Americans with disabilities have had an important tool to help address that problem: ABLE accounts. In 2026, millions of people who previously didn’t qualify for ABLE accounts will be eligible.
What is an ABLE Account?
ABLE stands for Achieving a Better Life Experience. The accounts were created through federal legislation in 2014, with a goal of allowing individuals with disabilities and their families to contribute to the disabled person’s support without disqualifying them from critical federal benefits.
Social Security disability benefit eligibility is not affected by resources, since SSD is an insurance program for workers who have paid in to the system during their working years. However, some SSD recipients may rely on other public benefits, such as Medicaid. And, SSI is a need-based program with low resource limits.
The statute creating ABLE accounts makes them “non-countable” assets for purposes of Medicaid eligibility, SSI, and other federally-funded need-based benefits. There are caps on contributions and caps on the amount of money that is ignored when considering program eligibility, but they are high.
Monetary Limits on ABLE Accounts
There are several different limits to consider when setting up, contributing to, and managing an ABLE account. Some key considerations in 2026 are:
Contribution limits: The aggregate annual contributions to an ABLE account cannot exceed the federal gift tax exclusion. In 2026, that’s $19,000/year. The limit applies to the beneficiary and not the specific donors. So, the beneficiary can receive a maximum of $19,000/year, but there is no limit on the aggregate amount a contributor can give to multiple beneficiaries.
SSI Resource Limit: For SSI purposes, only $100,000 in an ABLE account is disregarded. Any amount in excess of $100,000 will be counted as a resource, and could disqualify the recipient from SSI benefits.
Overall Contribution Limit: The total contributions to an ABLE account may not be greater than the state’s limit on contributions to a 529 account. This cap varies from state to state. In 2026, state caps range from $235,000 to $621,411.
As you can see, the impact of an ABLE account and the limitations on contributions will vary from state to state and based on which programs you receive benefits from. So, it is important to make sure you thoroughly understand the rules in your state and the possible impact on your benefits. For example, the general resource cap for SSI is just $2,000 for an individual. So, a very slight difference in your ABLE account balance could mean the difference between receiving monthly SSI benefits and losing eligibility.
Qualified Disability Expenses (QDEs)
Withdrawals for qualified disability expenses are typically tax free. That classification isn’t limited to medical care, but covers a range of necessities such as:
Housing costs
Educational expenses
Employment training
Personal support services
Financial management services
Legal services
Health and welfare expenses
Who Can Have an ABLE Account in 2026?
This is the big change in 2026. When ABLE accounts were created, Social Security disability and SSI recipients and those whose impairments met the disability or blindness standard for SSI for children were eligible–but only if their disability started before the age of 26. While this benefitted a great many people with certain types of disabilities, it excluded the vast majority of both SSD and SSI recipients.
A 2024 law increased the age cut-off by 20 years. Starting January 1, 2026, anyone who meets the general criteria is eligible for an ABLE account if they became disabled before age 46. That still leaves out many disability recipients, since a high percentage of new disability determinations are for people aged 50+. But, it has been estimated that about six million more SSD and SSI recipients will qualify for ABLE accounts under the updated law.
How to Establish an ABLE Account
There’s a lot to consider when choosing an ABLE account, so the process is generally best tackled with the help of a financial advisor or a disability advocate familiar with the intricacies of ABLE accounts and account management. Some key issues to consider:
State: Most states offer ABLE plans, and there may be some tax benefits to establishing a plan in your own state. But most states also allow out-of-state account holders, so be sure to explore all of your options.
Costs: There are generally management fees associated with ABLE accounts, but they may vary significantly. Some may charge just a flat fee per month or year, while others may charge percentage-based fees.
Investment Options: Like 401(k) accounts, ABLE accounts typically allow account holders to choose their investment plan. But some plans offer only a handful of options, while others may have a dozen or more.
ABLE accounts offer an opportunity for Social Security disability and SSI recipients to raise their standard of living without putting their SSI benefits, Medicaid, or other federally-funded benefits at risk. However, it’s crucial to make informed decisions about the account and its management. One good source of information is the ABLE National Resource Center.
SSD and SSI Benefits
For most people, qualifying for an ABLE account starts with being approved for SSD or SSI benefits. Unfortunately, that process can be long and complicated. At Disability Help Group, we’ve helped thousands of people secure the disability benefits they deserve. To learn more about how we can help with your disability application or appeal, call us today at 800-800-3332 or fill out our contact form here.
Recent Updates To The Social Security Fairness Act:
January 5th, 2025: President Joe Biden has officially signed the Social Security Fairness Act into law, eliminating the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset.
December 23th, 2024: The U.S. Senate passed the Social Security Fairness Act, sending it to President Joe Biden for final approval.
December 18th, 2024: The Senate voted to move forward with a final vote on the Social Security Fairness Act before the end of the year.
“For too many years, vital public sector employees like teachers, postal workers, police and firefighters have been denied full access to the money they paid into the Social Security Administration. We here at Disability Help Group are pleased to see that after forty years of lobbying, the Social Security Fairness Act will correct these inequities. The fact that the Social Security Fairness Act passed with overwhelming bipartisan support reaffirms the fact that the federal government and the American people are committed to making Social Security as strong as it can be for the retired and the disabled populations who rely on these benefits. In the upcoming months, Disability Help Group is planning outreach campaigns to educate public sector employees and their unions about the additional benefits that may be available with the law’s passage. We expect nearly three million Americans may be positively impacted. The Senate is pushing for a vote on a bill that could expand Social Security benefits for millions of people.”
– Matt Sauerwald, President, Disability Help Group
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. said he will start the process for a final vote on the Social Security Fairness Act for a potential passage in the final days of the Biden administration.
How can I get more information on the Social Security Fairness Act?
While this could move quickly in the lame duck session, News organizations have been following it closely. You can read more about it from supporters and critics of the bill.
Matthew Sauerwald, President, Disability Help Group makes sense of the legislation and gives you exactly what you need to know in under three minutes. Watch the video here:
How to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits
Social Security disability (SSDI) can provide essential income and access to medical care for those who qualify. But, the process can be complicated and discouraging. The more you know in advance about how the process works and what is expected of you, the better.
This post provides an overview of how to apply for Social Security disability benefits. If you need additional information or assistance, a Social Security Disability Advocate can be your best resource.
When and How to Start Your SSDI Application
The best time to apply for Social Security disability benefits is as soon as you become disabled. For most disabilities, you won’t be eligible for benefits until your sixth month of disability. But, the process can take time. Even if you are approved at the initial application stage, it can take three to six months. So, don’t delay.
The best way to submit your application is online–online applications move more quickly, and you’ll have the opportunity to stop the process if necessary to gather information or just take a break. You can easily return to your saved application later. If you’re unable to apply online, you may call the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 800-772-1213.
What You’ll Need for Your Social Security Disability Benefits Application
The SSA will need information about your work history, your medical condition, and your daily activities and limitations to make a decision on your application. The SSA makes some materials available to help you make sure you have all of the information you need for your application, such as this medical and work history worksheet. Gathering this information in advance is especially important if you will be making your application over the phone.
What To Expect After You Apply for Disability Benefits
It typically takes three to six months to receive a determination on your initial application for Social Security disability benefits. If your initial application is denied, don’t be discouraged. The approval rate is low at the initial application stage, but many of those applicants go on to receive benefits at a later stage in the process.
Learn How a Social Security Disability Advocate Can Help
An experienced advocate can help ensure that your application is complete, that you’ve provided the right documentation, and that you haven’t made mistakes that could delay or derail your claim. The earlier you get knowledgeable guidance, the better.
If you’ve already filed and your claim has been denied, we can help with that, too. Call (800) 800-2009 to learn more about how we can put our experience to work for you.
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a type of cancer that typically affects children under the age of five. The American Cancer Society estimates doctors will diagnose another 5,970 new cases this year, and 1,440 people will die from ALL. This type of cancer attacks the lymphoblasts, immature white blood cells in bone marrow.
For years, treatment for ALL has started with chemotherapy and often progresses to stem cell transplantation, radiation therapy, and targeted drugs.
One treatment that doctors have used for decades is the application of the L-asparaginase enzyme. This enzyme is isolated from Escherichia coli and Erwinia chrysanthemi bacteria, and can achieve a high rate of remission. However, it has the risk of causing mild to severe allergic responses in about 25 percent of patients.
Researchers have begun the process of seeking a less toxic enzyme to help improve remission rates. The study, published in Scientific Reports, began by looking at several fungi that also secrete the L-asparaginase enzyme. They found that common baker’s yeast had a similar enzyme and carried less risk of an immune response thanks to a composition similar to human cells.
Researchers tested the effectiveness of the yeast enzyme against the E. coli enzyme. When added to human leukemia cells, the yeast enzyme killed roughly 70-80 percent of the MOLT4 (asparagine) cells, while the E. coli enzyme killed about 90 percent. Even though the yeast enzyme had a lower cell death rate, doctors might consider it for use in patients who are likely to have an immune response.
Leukemia Qualify Your Child for Social Security Disability
Children with certain childhood diseases, like leukemia, are eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits and might be entitled to Social Security disability benefits under their parents’ contributions. To find out more about your child’s eligibility and how to file a claim on their behalf, the Disability Help Group is here to help.
Call us at 800-800-2009 to speak with one of our disability advocates today for free. Or, click here to see some of our frequently asked questions.
