Now that a new legislative session has begun and a new president will be sworn into office soon members of Congress have begun to set their agendas for the upcoming session. One of these members, U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, D-Massachusetts, who is the House chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, recently released his legislative priorities for 2021. Within these priorities, which can be found here, is a pledge to protect and strengthen Social Security, including Social Security disability. Below is what Neal wrote in his report.
Congress must do more to help American families, especially minority families, have a secure and dignified retirement. Social Security provides the foundation of retirement security, and its benefits must be strengthened and improved, particularly for low-wage workers. Social Security disability benefits must be protected against harmful attacks. Beyond Social Security, families of color are far less likely to have retirement savings and access to employer-based retirement plans. Policies to remedy these inequities will help increase their savings for retirement.
Take Advantage Of Free Medicare Services
Navigating all the Medicare programs can be as confusing as the Social Security disability process. Those who have been found disabled and entitled to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits will be eligible for Medicare after a waiting period. No matter what type of Medicare plan you have it is important to remember that you are entitled to some free services that Medicare offers to all enrollees. Below is a list.
- A wellness visit once a year
- Substance abuse counseling
- Help quitting smoking
- Depression screenings
- Mammograms
- Flu shots
- Coronavirus vaccines, once they become available
Find out what no-cost benefits you’re entitled to. Getting ahead of medical issues could save you a lot of money down the line while ensuring you stay as healthy as possible. As a Medicare enrollee, your goal should be to secure the best coverage while enjoying the most savings possible.
