Breaking Free from Control: The Hidden Financial Realities of Disability
The recent revelation of Britney Spears’ 13-year conservatorship has sparked a national conversation about guardianship and its impact on personal autonomy. As a disability researcher and advocate, I’m not surprised by the abuses Britney has faced. Disabled individuals often encounter manipulation, isolation, and denial of their rights. It’s time to shed light on the financial aspects of disability that are frequently overlooked.
The Guardianship Trap
Approximately 1.3 million adults in the United States are under guardianship, with 94% of petitions granted and most resulting in permanent loss of autonomy. These individuals, like Britney, are stripped of their right to make financial decisions, with their lives controlled by a court-appointed guardian. This “civil death” is often irreversible, with many states not even guaranteeing the right to an attorney in guardianship proceedings.
Marriage and Benefits: A Catch-22
Disability benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI), come with strings attached. Recipients can only have limited assets, and marriage can lead to a reduction or loss of benefits. This forces disabled individuals to choose between love and financial stability. Even cohabiting without marriage can result in benefits being reclaimed by the Social Security Administration.
The High Cost of Living with a Disability
Living with a disability is expensive. The poverty rate for disabled individuals is more than twice the national average. Unemployment, subminimum wage jobs, and high medical expenses contribute to this reality. I know firsthand that managing a condition like bipolar disorder can be costly, with medication and therapy expenses adding up quickly. The fear of losing health insurance is a constant worry, and even with insurance, there are many out-of-pocket expenses that can be crippling.
It’s Time for Change
Personal finance cannot be discussed without considering the experiences of disabled individuals. We must acknowledge the financial realities of disability and work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive system. As the disability rights movement advocates, “Nothing about us without us” – it’s time to include disabled voices in the conversation about personal finance and privilege.
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