I’m Approved for Disability… Now What?
After you have gone through the lengthy process of applying for Social Security Disability benefits, you might think that as soon as you are approved you will see a check in the mailbox. It could be great if it were that easy!
After the Social Security Administration (SSA) makes their decision, they will issue and mail a letter. Your online account will also tell you the decision so it’s important to check that frequently. The letter will usually tell you the conditions you were approved for and how often you can expect medical reviews of your disability. The letter should also list your Established Onset Date. This is the date Social Security decided you became disabled. This date may or may not be the same date you think you became disabled. If the onset date they choose is the same onset date you asked for, this is called “fully favorable.” If it is a different date, this is called “partially favorable.”
In addition to the decision letter, you will also receive a letter informing you of your monthly award amount and if applicable, your back-pay amount. You can receive your payment via direct deposit if you have a bank account or onto a payment card which works like a debit card. You can usually expect your back pay and first monthly check to start 30-90 days after the award letter.
As far as insurance is concerned, if you were approved for SSI, you will receive Medicaid benefits automatically depending on the state you live in. If your state does not automatically grant benefits, you must complete a Medicaid application based on your new disabled status.
After receiving Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits for 24 months, you will become eligible for Medicare. Prior to being eligible for Medicare when receiving SSDI, you may be eligible for COBRA health insurance through a former employer. Normally, COBRA eligibility is 18 months but if SSDI is determined, notify your COBRA administrator of the determination and request extension of your COBRA. They may be able to grant a 6-month extension until Medicare is in effect so there is no lapse in insurance coverage.
