D isability benefit reform in G reat B ritain from the perspective of the U nited S tates

In 2008, G reat B ritain overhauled its disability benefit programme by introducing a new disability determination process called the W ork C apability A ssessment and a new earnings replacement programme called E mployment and S upport A llowance. This article examines the B ritish reforms from the perspective of the U nited S tates, which may consider changes to its disability benefit programme, the S ocial S ecurity D isability Insurance programme, in the near future. The article provides an overview of the steps leading to the reform in G reat B ritain, details how the new programme operates, reviews research on its initial implementation and effects, and identifies lessons for the potential reform of the disability benefit programme in the U nited S tates.