Individuals whose eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) has already been approved, often after a lengthy process, remain barred from accessing their SSDI benefits for five months after that approval. In addition to this five-month waiting period for SSDI benefits, beneficiaries must wait 24 months to receive health insurance through Medicare. 

The Stop the Wait Act (H.R 930) 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. 930, the Stop the Wait Act, which would allow immediate access to Social Security disability benefits and to Medicare coverage for eligible beneficiaries.