Immigrant networks and the take-up of disability programs: Evidence from the united states

Abstract

We examine the role of ethnic networks in disability program take-up among working-age immigrants in the United States. Controlling for country of origin and area of residence fixed effects, immigrants residing amid a large number of co-ethnics are more likely to receive disability payments when their ethnic groups have higher take-up rates. Differences in satisfying the work history or income and asset requirements of the disability programs explain part of this relationship, but social norms also play an important role. Information sharing appears influential for Supplemental Security Income take-up but not for Social Security Disability Income.