What are the requirements for receiving retroactive SSDI benefits?

Retroactive SSDI benefits are back payments that you may be eligible for if your disability began before you applied for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). To qualify for retroactive benefits, you must meet certain requirements:

SSDI Qualifications:

First and foremost, you must meet the eligibility criteria for SSDI. This includes having a disability that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least one year or result in death.

Claim for Retroactive SSDI Benefits:

You must have filed a claim for SSDI benefits, and the date of onset of your disability must be prior to your application date. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will determine the date your disability began based on medical records and other evidence.

Receiving Past SSDI Payments:

Retroactive benefits can typically be paid for up to 12 months before the date of your application. However, there is a five-month waiting period for SSDI benefits, so you may not receive payments for the first five months of your disability.

By meeting these requirements, you may be eligible to receive retroactive SSDI benefits to help compensate for the time you were unable to work due to your disability.