What Is the Elimination Period for Social Security Disability Benefits?

Social Security’s Disability Insurance Benefits are federally funded and administered by the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). If you have been employed long enough and suffer from a physical condition that prohibits you from performing your tasks for at least one year or is projected to result in death, Social Security will pay disability payments to you and specified members of your family.

The elimination term for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) compensation is five months. This time frame starts on the day of your disability start date, which is the day an ailment or injury rendered you disabled. Before receiving any SSDI payments, the five-month elimination phase aims to confirm that you have a long-term disability. The SSDI termination period does include a few exceptions.

Elimination Term SSDI: Exceptions

If the SSA already granted your application for disability payments in the past, you can immediately begin receiving benefits for your present disability. For individuals who are only restarting their benefits, this exemption is in effect.

SSI benefits do not have a waiting period. If the SSA accepts your application, you can begin receiving benefits with this kind of disability benefit within the first month after the application date. Unfortunately, SSI benefits are usually less generously compensated than standard SSDI compensation.

Do not Wait for SSA Approval

The SSA needs time to assess and examine each application, given the large numbers submitted annually. The usual evaluation period lasts months. Most people’s initial applications are turned down. This should not discourage you, get a lawyer and follow proper protocol.

While five months may seem like a long time, it really takes the SSA a long time to accept or reject an application it receives.

In addition, it often takes more than five months to process a lot of disability benefit applications. You may have to wait twice as long to get your first disability payment if you apply after the five-month elimination period.

Get Professional Help

It is crucial to seek legal advice from an experienced attorney if you are requesting disability compensation. One of the many conditions to qualify for SSDI payments is the elimination period. You must fulfill the criteria if you wish your request to be accepted.

A skilled attorney can help you throughout the application submission process to ensure that your request is error-free. If your first application is denied, they can also help you submit an appeal to have the judgment reversed.

Call 800-438-7734 for your initial free consultation, either in our office or in the comfort of your own home. The Kenton Koszdin Law Office, Social Security attorney in Van Nuys, can help you navigate the application process for the best possible outcome for you and your family.