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.