1. United States
2. Mass.
3. Letter

Protecting the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program is crucial for safeguarding the lives of millions of vulnerable Americans. New research reveals that even modest increases in disability benefits can significantly reduce mortality rates among recipients. For those with an average disability income of $10,400 annually, an additional $1,000 per year could cut mortality by up to a third of a percentage point in the first four years. Similarly, for disabled workers with families receiving around $21,900 in combined benefits, a $1,000 increase could lower the adult's mortality by a quarter percentage point. These findings underscore the lifesaving impact of this vital social safety net. Many disability beneficiaries have no other sources of income, forcing them to make detrimental compromises on healthcare, housing, and nutrition due to financial constraints. Augmenting their benefits can alleviate such hardships, enabling them to afford better living conditions and access to care that prolongs their lives. However, the longevity gains diminish once benefits exceed $29,000 annually, indicating a threshold beyond which additional income yields minimal health improvements. This research highlights the profound human toll of underfunding disability programs. As policymakers deliberate budgets, they must prioritize sustaining and bolstering SSDI to protect the well-being of our most vulnerable citizens. Preserving this lifeline is not only a moral imperative but also a sound investment in public health and human capital. I urge you to champion the robust funding of SSDI, ensuring it remains a bulwark against preventable deaths and suffering.