jillio

There will always be abuses. But it is extremely difficult to abuse the Social Security system. Doesn't mean it can't be done, but there are too amny safequards in place for it to happen frequently. I agree with you. I would go so far as to say that I know of at least one individual that deserved the SSDI that he had applied for, was turned down 3 times, eventually had to sue, and after medical testimony from several doctors and rehab counselors, finally received his award. But he was unable to work for 3 years with no income before he was given his award. The reason it was so hard for him to collect.....he was only 48 years old, and they automatically turn down any application for a person under 50. However, he had several heart attacks, and has a pacemaker/defibrillator, takes several medications. Despite that, he continued to work until his defibrillator began to go off on a regular basis, causing him to become unconscious. The last time it happened, he ended up in the ER with a gash to his head that required 17 stitches. His doctor ordered him to give up driving, and to apply for SSDI, due to several other limitations in what he could safely do. Despite that fact that he had worked steadily since he was 16, and had paid into the system for 32 years, he had to sue to get approved. My whole point is, the vast majority of those receiving SSI or SSDI are well qualified to be receiving that minimal amount of assistance.