Navigating the disability benefits system in Tennessee

Disability benefits can be absolutely vital for those who are eligible for them. These come in the form of Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance, federal programs overseen by the Social Security Administration.

But, applying and re-certifying for these benefits an be complicated, and the benefits themselves are often not enough to live on. To learn more about what it’s like to navigate the disability benefits system in Tennessee, we’re joined by community members with firsthand experience. Then, we’re taking a look at how the system works with an independent living specialist and a state official.

But first, it’s @Us. Host Khalil Ekulona and senior producer Steve Haruch respond to listener feedback and preview future episodes.

Guests: 

• Rachel Kestner, who lives with cerebral palsy

• Haizey Peden, who lives with seizures

• Marissa Smith-Fletcher, independent living specialist at Empower Tennessee

• Kevin Wright, assistant commissioner of Rehabilitation Services at the Department of Human Services