Those who decide to apply for SSDI benefits are often in a difficult personal position. They have some type of disabling medical condition that is preventing them from working, at a time when they may only have limited financial reserves to help them support themselves now that they cannot work. Their bills continue piling up, along with interest and past-due fees, while they worry about how to replace their lost income.
Most adults who have consistently worked can potentially qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. The contributions made from each paycheck can make someone eligible based on their work history. Applicants who can demonstrate that their condition is serious enough to prevent them from working can pursue benefits to help them cover their basic expenses until they qualify for retirement benefits or are physically ready to return to work.
While those applying for SSDI benefits often feel a pressing sense of urgency, they will usually need to wait several months before they receive any support.
The application process can be lengthy
While there are programs that can fast-track claims for those with severe or terminal illnesses, the average individual who requires long-term benefits typically needs to wait five months after approval for benefits to start.
Unfortunately, many people who apply for SSDI benefits don’t receive immediate approval. They may have to appeal and possibly wait a year or longer to have a hearing in front of a judge before they qualify for benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not guarantee a specific turnaround time for application processing or appeals.
For those who go through the appeals process, the SSA may pay them backdated benefits worth the full amount they would have received if they had started getting benefits when they initially qualified. Those lump-sum payments can help people catch up on their bills after waiting for benefits.
Oftentimes, applicants need to budget carefully and focus on the long-term benefits of the application and appeals process. Understanding the likely timeline when applying for SSDI benefits may help people persevere in their pursuit of financial support when they are unable to work and waiting anxiously for benefits to be approved.