Are Social Security Disability Benefits Retroactive?
Are you thinking about applying for Social Security disability benefits and wondering whether they may be retroactive?
My name is Kaitlin Wildoner, and I’m an attorney who helps disabled clients obtain their disability benefits as quickly as possible so they can focus on getting better. Today we’re going to talk about when Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits may be retroactive.
When Can SSDI Benefits Be Retroactive?
The first thing that I want to note is that retroactivity typically depends on the date of disability onset. SSDI benefits are not paid for the first 5 months after the onset of disability, so retroactive payments will not cover that first five-month waiting period.
How Far Back Can SSDI Pay?
SSDI benefits can generally be retroactive for a maximum of 12 months prior to the date of the application. This means you can potentially receive benefits for up to a year before you submit your application for SSDI benefits—but it depends. It depends on when your disability onset date is.
Why Your Disability Onset Date Matters
It’s important that you have medical evidence that supports the onset date of your disability, as that is what is used to determine retroactive payments.
As I mentioned before, there’s a five-month waiting period for SSDI benefits starting from the date of the disability onset. To maximize your retroactive benefits, it’s important that you apply for SSDI benefits as soon as you become disabled, as the clock starts ticking on the retroactivity period from the date of your application.
How Are Retroactive Payments Paid?
Retroactive benefits are often paid as a lump sum in SSDI claims, covering the past months from the onset date up to the date of approval. This lump sum can sometimes be a significant amount.
SSDI vs. SSI Retroactivity
SSDI retroactivity rules differ from Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which has different guidelines and rules regarding retroactive payments.
Thanks so much for watching!
If you’re disabled and unable to work, we’re here to help. Click this scheduling link or call us directly to schedule a free consultation where we’ll discuss your case and see how we can help you.
