How To Get Back Pay - SSDI & SSI Benefits

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How Do You Get Back Pay for SSDI or SSI?

Published by gdgmanage

A calculator sitting next to a calendar with the 31st date circled and piles of coins. Waiting on disability back pay and retroactive disability payments.

How do you get back pay for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits? You may receive back pay if you had to wait several months for claim approval. This is the case for those who apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). In some situations, SSDI claimants may also be eligible for retroactive disability benefits.

In this article, we talk about back pay and when you can expect to receive it. We also discuss the difference between SSDI retroactive pay and traditional back pay. Continue reading to learn more or contact us at Grundy Disability Group to schedule a free consultation.

What Is Back Pay for Disability?

Back pay is money you should have received for disability when you were eligible but before getting claim approval. Back pay is intended to cover the time between the date you filed an SSI or SSDI claim and the date the claim was approved.

In addition, SSDI applicants may qualify for retroactive pay. These payments cover the period between your Established Onset Date (EOD)— the date your disability began —and your filing date.

SSDI Back Pay vs Retroactive Pay

SSDI claimants can receive retroactive benefits in addition to traditional back pay, but there are restrictions. You can receive up to 12 months’ worth of retroactive benefits prior to your filing date. To receive the full 12 months of retroactive pay, your disability onset date must be 17 months (or more) before your application date. This is because SSDI claimants must get through a mandatory 5-month waiting period before receiving monthly benefits.

SSI Back Pay Maximum

It’s important to note that while SSI does pay back pay, recipients are not eligible for retroactive benefits. SSI back pay only covers the period between your application date and claim approval date.

Unlike with SSDI, there is no waiting period for SSI. Therefore, monthly payments are awarded for the first full month following your application date.

When Can I Expect My Back Pay?

The timeline for back pay distribution varies from case to case and can range from weeks to months. Many recipients receive their back pay via a lump-sum check in the mail. Setting up direct deposit with the Social Security Administration (SSA) can sometimes speed up the process.

SSDI back pay is typically issued in a single lump sum payment. SSI back pay is typically distributed in installments.

How Is Back Pay Calculated?

After approving your claim, the SSA will calculate your back pay amount. This amount is determined by the length of time between your application date and claim approval date. For SSDI applicants, the SSA also considers the 5-month waiting period after disability onset before calculating back pay.

For those eligible for retroactive payments, the SSA will calculate the amount based on the time between the EOD and filing date. As previously discussed, the disability back pay maximum for retroactive benefits covers 12 months’ time (minus the waiting period).

Why Does Back Pay Matter?

Applying for disability benefits can be challenging, especially when you’re unable to work because of your medical condition. The SSA often takes several months to review and approve claims, leaving applicants in a difficult financial situation. Once your claim is approved, back pay can offer crucial financial relief.

How Grundy Disability Group Can Help

Navigating the complexities of Social Security Disability back pay can be overwhelming. At Grundy Disability Group, we’re here to help. Our knowledgeable and compassionate team will guide you through the process, ensuring that you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to.

We handle all aspects of disability claims, from initial applications to federal court appeals. Attorney Matthew R. Grundy has years of experience and dedicates himself to serving the Missouri area. We also provide free case evaluations to help you understand your choices and confidently take next steps.

If you’re wondering how SSI and SSDI back pay works, or have questions about retroactive disability payments, we’re here to provide answers. Let us help you navigate the claims process and secure the financial support you need. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation!

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    When do I apply for Social Security disability?

    Our Social Security disability lawyer in charge of your case will work tirelessly to determine what went wrong. Our Social Security attorneys will then refile your claim, making sure everything is in order. Our Social Security lawyers will not stop until you are successful in claiming the benefits you deserve. Read More

    You have to have been disabled, or expect to be disabled, for at least one year to be eligible. So, if you expect to be out of work for one year or more on account of illness or injury, you should file for Social Security disability benefits. Read More

    To apply for Social Security disability benefits, you will need to complete an application for Social Security Benefits and the Disability Report. You can also print the Disability Report, complete it and return it to your local Social Security office. Read More

    Cases are generally handled on a contingency basis. That means the representative receives a fee only if you win your case. Normally the fee is 25% of your back benefits and must be approved by Social Security. Read More

    You do not have to wait until the workers’ compensation ends, and you should not wait that long. Read More