Jason had many questions after learning his serious medical condition would prevent him from working. He asked friends and family for help getting to his doctor’s appointments. He asked the doctors what medical treatments he needed. And he asked everyone, “When should I apply for disability?” This was not a simple question, and he needed something to replace his lost income. In this blog, you will learn more about the timing of your disability claim.
How long should I wait to apply for disability?
Don’t wait. For most people, it is best to apply for disability benefits as soon as you become disabled. The Social Security Administration (SSA) manages the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program. When processing your claim, they will consider the date of your application to be your Alleged Onset Date. If you are due retroactive SSDI benefits, the SSA will calculate those benefits from your Alleged Onset Date. If you wait to apply, you may lose out on benefits.
Isn’t there some kind of waiting period?
Most Social Security disability payments don’t begin to pay out until your sixth full month of disability. However, it’s best not to wait until you have been disabled for six months to apply. Read on to learn why.
How soon after I apply for disability will I start getting payments?
That depends on the SSA’s assessment of your disability and how quickly you applied for benefits. It may take six months or so to process your application for benefits – unless your claim is denied. If you have to appeal, you can add months and maybe until you receive payments.
For example, imagine you waited six months to apply for benefits. Then, the SSA took six months to process your application. One year after your disability began, you become eligible for benefits. However, due to the SSA’s wait period, you may have to wait another five months before receiving your first check.
Applying early at least gets you in line for payment.
Get the Benefits You Deserve When You Need Them
Don’t wait for an unnecessary amount of time to get your disability payments started. Talk to a lawyer as soon as you learn you can no longer work.
At The Law Offices of Martin Taller, your case gets the attention and care of experienced Social Security Disability attorneys. Call us at 714-385-8100 to set up a free consultation. Though our office is conveniently located in Anaheim, we assist clients throughout Southern California.
