Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments are a lifeline for New Jersey residents who are unable to work, either temporarily or permanently. Because the application process is sometimes uncertain and difficult, many people wonder how long it will take to receive their first payment.
Five-month waiting period before you can receive money
You must be disabled for at least five months before you can receive Social Security Disability payments. However, the time before the first payment arrives depends on several factors, including the complexity of your claim, whether you have issues to resolve, and the workload of the Social Security office processing your application. Generally, you can expect your first payment several weeks to several months after application approval. Even though you must wait at least five months before receiving payment, you will receive back pay starting from the first day of your disability.
Getting your payments as quickly as possible
The key to receiving prompt payment is two-fold; file your claim as soon as possible when your disability is diagnosed and make sure the application is as thorough as possible. Missing information, including medical diagnoses and other supporting documentation, can result in delays or even an initial denial.
Remain proactive on claim follow-up
Navigating the SSDI claims process is often confusing for many applicants. When first applying, try to gather as much information as possible about the injury or medical condition that has caused your disability. You can file the petition electronically; this route is faster for review and approval. If several weeks have passed and you have not received an answer, contact your local SSA office to learn your claim’s status.
The SSA denies most claims initially, but don’t give up on your application. You’ll have 60 days to appeal a denied claim, which involves filing a request for reconsideration. If you wait longer than 60 days, you must restart the claims process and will lose out on back pay that started from the initial disability date. If reconsideration does not result in approval, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge.
