Why is There a Five-Month Waiting Period for SSDI claims?

What is the Five-Month Waiting Period?

The Five-Month Waiting Period for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is the time frame that must elapse after the onset of a disability before you can start receiving benefits. The waiting period ensures that benefits are paid only to those with long-term disabilities. It lasts for five full months from the date the Social Security Administration (SSA) determines your disability began. During this period, no SSDI benefits are paid, even if your application is approved.

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What Are Exceptions to the Waiting Period?

Previous SSDI Recipients: If you were previously entitled to SSDI benefits and your benefits stopped because of work, you may not have to wait five months if you become disabled again within five years of when your benefits stopped.

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Compassionate Allowances: The Compassionate Allowance program provides immediate financial assistance for applicants that live with a life-threatening illness.

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Statutory Blindness: While the five-month waiting period typically applies to individuals with blindness, there are unique rules for blindness-related SSDI claims that can sometimes lead to different processing times and requirements.

If you are a dependent of a disabled worker, you also do not have to wait five months to receive financial assistance.

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How is SSDI Backpay Calculated?

Just because you have to wait five months to receive financial assistance does not mean you do not get paid for the five months. You have the right to receive back pay, which is calculated by factoring in the date when you applied for SSDI benefits. Backpay also is calculated by referring to the date when you received a diagnosis for a disabling medical condition, as well as the date when the SSA approved you for Social Security disability benefits.

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Find Help with Your Claim

By understanding the five-month waiting period and its exceptions, applicants can better prepare for the SSDI application process and manage their expectations regarding when benefits might begin. The complex nature of the five-month waiting period rule can prevent you from receiving the financial assistance you deserve. Working with a Social Security advocate can help you ensure you receive the maximum value of benefits owed to you by the SSA.

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