When you apply for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, you likely do so because you have no other means of supporting yourself and your family. When an injury or illness prevents you from working or caring for yourself, SSD can be the only viable option for income.
Receiving a denial for your initial claim can feel like an impossible hardship to overcome, but you have the right to an appeal. While it can be hard to focus on the big picture in moments of financial strain, it’s important to realize that if you appeal your denial, you can receive back pay to cover the benefits you didn’t receive during the appeals process.
When can you start receiving Social Security Disability benefits?
The first thing to understand is the length of time for which you have the right to claim benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will typically authorize disability benefits six months after the date of the condition’s onset. Whether you have an illness or an injury, after it has affected you for six months, you have the right to apply for and receive SSD benefits.
How far back will the Social Security Administration go?
The appeals process can take months, with people sometimes waiting more than a year for a hearing in front of an administrative law judge. You need to know that you can receive back pay for the entire length of your appeal.
In fact, the SSA may approve benefits for up to a full twelve months prior to the date of your application, depending on the onset date for your condition.