How does SSA determine the amount of back pay?

 

 

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) back pay is based on the date of onset and date of application (protective filing date). The onset date is the date a claimant became unable to work, due to a medical condition (or conditions).

 

If a claimant qualifies for social security disability, they will be entitled to benefits as far back as the date of the application and possibly 12 months retroactive to this.  A claimant may also be entitled to substantial back pay benefits depending on how long the claim process takes. If a claimant qualifies for SSI disability, they will be entitled to receive benefits as far back as the date of the disability application, provided non-medical requirements are met.

 

Usually, a claimant will receive their back pay or the first installment of their back pay within 60 days of being approved. It may take longer for a claimant to receive a back payment as payments for SSDI are handled by out of state payment processing centers. SSI payments can be delayed while Social Security requests updated income and asset information from a claimant to determine whether you’re still eligible for the program.