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MAXIMIZE YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFIT: GET THE MOST BACK PAY

Back pay can occur 2 ways in a Social Security disability claim:

1.  You become disabled but wait a while before filing a claim.  You may collect retroactive benefits for up to 12 months prior to your application date.

2.  Social Security takes a long time to process your claim and give you a favorable decision.  This is very common.  You may claim back pay for the time you have been waiting--minus the 5 month waiting period.

Back pay on Social Security disability (SSDI) claims depends on two things:  The date of your application and the established onset date of your disability.

The state agency that makes initial determinations of applications--called the Disabiity Determination Service (DDS)--has a bad habit.  They often move the onset date forward to reduce back pay.  This can be appealed.

To maximize benefits from SSDI, it's important to file your application within 12 months after becoming disabled or stopping work.  Also, look carefully at the onset date of disability in your approval letter.  If the date is later than the actual start of disability, consult an attorney about the ins and outs of an appeal.

I have seen clients lose $50,000 or more because the DDS monkeys around with the disability onset date.  Be careful that doesn't happen to you.


 


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Charles W. Forsythe is senior partner in The Forsythe Firm, Huntsville, AL.  (256) 799-0297.  Call us for a free chat about your SSDI claim or appeal. 

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