Every October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). Led by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), NDEAM aims to raise awareness about disability employment issues while spotlighting the accomplishments of the many men and women with disabilities whose work helps keep the nation’s economy strong.
This Year Marks the 75th Anniversary of NDEAM
2020 marks the 75th anniversary of NDEAM. Back in 1945, Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week”. In 1962, the word “physically” was removed to include the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the celebration from a week to a month, renaming it the National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
“Ensuring that America’s workplaces continue to include and accommodate people with disabilities will be an important part of our economic rebound,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Eugene Scalia. “Looking ahead, the Department will remain focused on the policies that led to a strong economy and record-low unemployment rates for persons with disabilities prior to the pandemic. A vigorous economic rebound and job growth will, alongside the Americans with Disabilities Act, increase access and opportunity for Americans with disabilities.”
It’s more important than ever for workplaces to welcome the talents of all people, including those with disabilities. Inclusive and diverse workplaces are the key to keeping American businesses competitive and maintaining our strong economy.
You can learn more about participating in NDEAM and how to promote its messages — during October and throughout the year — by visiting www.dol.gov/NDEAM.
Disabled Workers May Qualify for Disability Benefits
Some people are under the impression that you can’t collect disability benefits if you’re still working. This may not be the case. If you are a disabled worker, you may still qualify for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration and other sources. Special SSA rules allow people receiving Social Security disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments to work and still receive monthly payments. You may be able to continue to work and still receive benefits as long as your earnings aren’t “substantial.” (In 2020, the SSA considers earnings over $1,260 a month – $2,110 if you’re blind – to be substantial.) Disability benefits can provide much needed supplemental income to help with medical bills and living expenses.
Speak With a Houston Disability Benefits Attorney
The Houston disability law firm of M. Stanley Whitehead has helped thousands of disabled Americans get the disability benefits they deserve after an injury or medical conditions severely limits their ability to work, or prevents them from working at all.
If your claim for disability benefits has been denied, we can help you appeal. In many instances, a claim is rejected not because the applicant doesn’t qualify, but simply that they failed to provide the SSA, VA or private insurance company with the information they needed to make a decision. We have successfully represented clients at all stages of the disability claims process – from helping to prepare their claim, to representing them in federal court.
It’s a fact that you have a better chance of having your disability claim approved if you have a qualified disability attorney at your side. Call the law offices of board certified Houston disability attorney M. Stanley Whitehead today at 713-993-7311 to learn how we can help you with your disability claim.
