Like it or not, artificial intelligence (AI) has become part of everyday life, whether you use it or it’s used by businesses you buy products or services from. Even Social Security is incorporating AI into some of its processes. Specifically, Social Security is now using AI in the appeals process.
The appeals process allows you to challenge a decision made by Social Security that you don’t agree with. There are four levels. You can:
- Request that SSA reconsider its decision
- Request a hearing with an administrative law judge
- Request a review with the Appeals Council
- File a federal district court action with the U.S. District Court
Social Security is using AI in hearings before an administrative law judge.
The appeal process before a judge is an informal hearing that includes an audio recording of the proceedings. In the past the recording was done by an antiquated, big, bulky hardware system and there was one in every office where hearings where conducted.
Now Social Security appeals hearings are recorded with a software-only AI generative system called HeaRT (Hearing Recording and Transcriptions). At the end of the session HeaRT produces transcripts of the hearing.
According to Social Security, using AI improves the quality of hearing recordings and substantially reduces the time needed to receive a full transcript. And because the system no longer relies on recording hardware, there are fewer hearing delays because of equipment failures or technical issues. In addition, HeaRT can be used whether the hearings are in person, on the phone, or via video. SSA estimates that HeaRT will benefit about a half million people each year and save SSA approximately $5 million a year.
Americans have the right to appeal any decision the SSA makes about them — such as whether someone has a disability that qualifies for disability benefits, or whether someone’s income and assets are small enough to qualify them for Supplemental Security Income.
This information is presented for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy any investment products. None of the information herein constitutes an investment recommendation, investment advice or an investment outlook. The opinions and conclusions contained in this report are those of the individual expressing those opinions. This information is non-tailored, non-specific information presented without regard for individual investment preferences or risk parameters. Some investments are not suitable for all investors, all investments entail risk and there can be no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful. This information is based on sources believed to be reliable and Alhambra is not responsible for errors, inaccuracies, or omissions of information. For more information contact Alhambra Investment Partners at 1-888-777-0970 or email us at [email protected].
