Sen. Kim introduces legislation to eliminate waiting periods for disability benefits
The Hill · September 17, 2026Original source ↗
What happened
Sen. Andy Kim (D-N.J.) introduced the Stop the Wait Act to phase out the five-month waiting period for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits and the 24-month waiting period for Medicare disability benefits. The proposed legislation aims to eliminate these waiting periods over a specified period.
Why it matters
This legislation could impact access to vital benefits for individuals with disabilities.
How this story affects people
How does this story affect you if you are waiting for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits?
This legislation could allow you to access your benefits sooner by phasing out the five-month waiting period. Eliminating this wait time means you could receive financial support more quickly during a challenging period.
How does this story affect you if you are disabled and need Medicare coverage?
The proposed legislation aims to eliminate the 24-month waiting period for Medicare benefits, which would provide you with necessary healthcare coverage much sooner. This change could significantly improve your access to medical care and support for your health needs.
Want this written about you?
The breakdown above is the shared version, for kinds of people. In the app, Ripple uses your job, your city, and your family, then writes that part about you.
Get your Ripple