Survey: Many Eligible Workers Skip Social Security Disability Applications
A survey by the law firm Atticus found that nearly half of workers covered by Social Security Disability Insurance believe they have no disability coverage if an injury or illness keeps them out of work for a year. Many respondents also did not know that applying for SSDI is free or that attorneys generally do not charge if they lose a case, and about 46% incorrectly thought applicants must be U.S. citizens. Atticus’s Stephanie Akpa said more public education is needed and suggested annual Social Security statements and online accounts could help reach people before disability occurs.
Atticus surveyed 1,033 working-age adults and found widespread gaps in knowledge about SSDI. Nearly half of workers with coverage thought a year-long inability to work would leave them without disability benefits. Most also did not realize applications have no upfront cost or that lawyers usually waive fees when claims fail, while about 46% wrongly believed citizenship is required.
Awareness is limited: roughly 51.7% had heard of SSDI, about 20.4 percentage points below Medicaid recognition. Atticus estimates only about half of potentially eligible workers apply. Meanwhile, SSA has expanded online claim tracking, some forms, and notices, and is developing an API with vetted partners for representatives to file digitally.
Better awareness could help workers and families recognize disability coverage before a health crisis, potentially reducing financial shocks and confusion during claims. If education reaches people earlier, more eligible individuals may seek benefits, which could increase demand on SSA and attorneys while also broadening access. The survey’s findings may encourage targeted outreach through annual statements and online accounts, though actual effects depend on funding, implementation, and whether misinformation about eligibility persists.