You should apply for Social Security disability benefits as soon as you believe that your mental or physical illness will keep you from working for at least 12 months.  Because of the serious backlog of cases nationwide, it can take more than two years from the time you first file your claim to have your case decided.  You should not wait until you have been out of work for a year.  Certain rules and limitations apply to Social Security disability claims limiting the amount of any award for past due benefits.  Generally, you cannot be awarded past due benefits for more than one year prior to the date of your application, no matter when you became disabled.  Therefore, early filing is very important.

 


Q: When should I apply for Social Security disability benefits?

A: You should apply for Social Security disability benefits as soon as you believe that your mental or physical illness will keep you from working for at least 12 months.  Because of the serious backlog of cases nationwide, it can take more than two years from the time you first file your claim to have your case decided.  You should not wait until you have been out of work for a year.  Certain rules and limitations apply to Social Security disability claims limiting the amount of any award for past due benefits.  Generally, you cannot be awarded past due benefits for more than one year prior to the date of your application, no matter when you became disabled.  Therefore, early filing is very important.


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