WI25-05: Impact of Paid Sick Leave Policies on SSI/SSDI Participation among Children and Adults with Disabilities

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are vital financial supports for people with disabilities and communities of color, but the complexities of the application process may prevent eligible individuals from applying. Access to paid sick leave (PSL) could help families and individuals by providing time during work hours to complete an application. PSL could also influence employment, health, and productivity, potentially affecting eligibility for SSI/SSDI. This project aims to examine how PSL mandates implemented in 15 states and the District of Columbia impact SSI/SSDI applications and enrollment among children and adults with disabilities. In the absence of these mandates, access to paid sick leave is uneven with lower rates among low-wage workers, women, and underserved racial and ethnic groups. We will assess whether PSL mandates reduce these disparities. Our analysis will include nationally representative survey data, administratively-measured SSI/SSDI applications and enrollment, and interviews with Social Security Administration (SSA) caseworkers to gain additional insights. Findings from this analysis will provide new information on the impacts of PSL mandates for state policymakers and the SSA to help reduce barriers and disparities in SSI/SSDI participation.