Individuals whose eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) has already been approved, often after a lengthy process, remain barred from any compensation for five months after that approval. In addition to this five-month waiting period for SSDI benefits, beneficiaries must wait for 24 months to receive health insurance through Medicare.
The Stop the Wait Act (H.R 883/S. 320), would phase out the five-month waiting period to receive SSDI benefits and allow those who are uninsured or unable to afford health insurance to immediately receive coverage under Medicare.
PVA Position:
Congress must pass H.R. 883/S. 320, the Stop the Wait Act, which would allow immediate access to Social Security disability benefits and to Medicare for those that are uninsured or unable to afford health care insurance.