Disability benefits are for those who are unable to work because of a medical issue, such as a mental disorder, physical injury or illness. If the state of your health keeps you from going to work and earning enough income to support yourself, you could be eligible for disability benefits through the Social Security Administration. In the past, more men than women received Social Security Disability Insurance benefits.
If you are an Ohio woman applying for disability benefits, it may interest you to learn about the application process and whether you are at a disadvantage because of your gender. While the SSA cannot discriminate in the decision-making process because of gender, the number of male disability recipients greatly outnumbered female applicants for decades. The application process can be complex and frustrating, but you do not have to navigate it alone.
Disabled women and benefits claims
The number of male to female disability recipients is closer to equal than it was in the past. There are various social and economic factors that led to this change, but it may be helpful for you to understand the following:
- More women now collect disability benefits because women are more prevalent in the workforce than they were in the past. Women are now more likely to have the work history to qualify for SSDI in case of a work-related injury or illness.
- Women are now more likely to apply for disability benefits. Female employees are important parts of the labor force, often holding jobs that may come with a higher risk of injury.
- Women and men collect disability benefits in almost equal numbers, but men are more likely to get higher payments. Many women earn less than men, and the amount of benefits depends on payroll taxes and work history.
As a woman, you understand the challenges of working in a world that seems to give preference to men. Gender should not factor into your disability claim, but you may find it necessary to tenaciously fight for the benefits you need and deserve.
You don’t have to fight alone
The process of applying for and claiming disability benefits can be challenging. You will find it helpful to work with an experienced attorney as you pursue what you need through your SSDI claim. Before you begin, an assessment of your case can help you understand your options and the benefits available to you.