Overview
- Multiple reports say officials are considering removing age from disability determinations or using it only at 60, which would tighten eligibility for workers over 50.
- The Social Security Administration says it is drafting proposals to update adjudication rules and replace outdated occupational data, and any change would go through public rulemaking.
- The White House denies plans to alter disability determination processes, saying the only Social Security policy move has been a working-families tax change.
- Urban Institute estimates indicate a 10% cut in eligibility could mean about 750,000 fewer beneficiaries over a decade and roughly 80,000 fewer widows and children, with one analysis estimating $82 billion less in payouts.
- People familiar with the talks identify OMB Director Russell Vought as a key driver, while Democratic leaders including Sen. Ron Wyden and Rep. John Larson criticize the reported plan as a major cut to disability insurance.