What Happens After You Are Approved for Social Security Disability?
Receiving approval for Social Security Disability benefits is a significant milestone, and our attorneys know how much this decision can mean to you and your family. After all the time and effort you’ve put into the application process, you may feel a sense of relief.
However, it's entirely normal to have questions about what comes next. At Gordon, Wolf & Carney located in Hunt Valley, Maryland, we’re here to help you understand the steps that follow your approval and set you up for success moving forward.
Notification of Approval and Award Letter
Once your claim has been approved, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will send you an official award letter. This document outlines important details about your benefits. These details will typically include:
The amount you’ll receive.
The date your payments will start.
Any retroactive payments you may be entitled to.
If anything appears to be unclear or incorrect, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’ve guided many clients through this stage of the process, and we’re happy to walk you through the letter to verify everything has been properly calculated. Our goal is to make sure you’re fully informed and receiving what you’re rightfully owed.
Receiving Back Payments
For many people, back payments are a critical component of their Social Security Disability award. These payments cover the time between when you became disabled and when your claim was approved.
The amount and time frame can vary depending on the date of disability established by the SSA and the type of benefits you’re receiving: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The SSA typically issues back payments as a lump sum, but in some cases, particularly with SSI, they may be paid in installments.
If you have any concerns about your timeline or payments, we can help clarify the process. You’ve waited long enough, and we want to ensure there are no delays in receiving what’s owed to you.
Starting Your Monthly Payments
After back payments are handled, your regular monthly benefit will begin. Your award letter will specify when these payments will start and how they’ll arrive, usually through direct deposit or a prepaid debit card. Payments for SSDI or SSI are typically issued on a set schedule each month, depending on your birth date.
If you experience any disruptions or issues with your payments, our attorneys at Gordon, Wolf & Carney are just a phone call away. It’s vital to us that you have consistent and reliable access to these benefits, and we’ll help address any obstacles that may arise.
Continuing Disability Reviews
When you are approved for Social Security Disability, it’s important to understand that the SSA conducts regular Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) to evaluate whether you’re still eligible for benefits. These reviews typically occur every three to seven years, depending on the expected duration of your disability.
During a CDR, the SSA will request your medical records and supporting documentation to assess your current condition. If your situation hasn’t improved or if you’re unable to return to work, your benefits will likely continue without interruption. However, if the SSA determines that there has been substantial improvement, they may consider ending your disability benefits.
We know how intimidating this process can feel, which is why we’re here to assist at every step. If a CDR arises, we can help you prepare and gather the necessary documents to show your continued eligibility.
Returning to Work
For some individuals, the idea of trying to return to work can feel both exciting and daunting. The SSA offers work incentive programs and a trial work period for benefit recipients who are interested in testing their ability to work without jeopardizing their disability benefits.
During the trial work period, you can continue to receive your benefits while working and earning above the substantial gainful activity (SGA) threshold. This allows you to evaluate your ability to maintain employment while keeping the support of your benefits as a safety net.
It’s important to approach this decision carefully and understand how working may impact your benefits in the long run. We are here to discuss your options and provide counsel as you decide what’s best for your situation.
Addressing Overpayments
Occasionally, the SSA may issue an overpayment of benefits due to changes in living arrangements, income, or other factors. If this occurs, they will send a notice explaining the overpayment amount and how they plan to recover those funds.
Receiving this type of notice can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be dealt with alone. If you believe the overpayment is incorrect or need assistance with a repayment plan, we can step in to advocate for you. Your financial stability is our priority, and we’ll work diligently to help resolve the situation.
Why Reach Out to Us After Approval?
Just as we stand by our clients throughout the application process, we’re here to support you long after you’ve been approved for Social Security Disability benefits. From clarifying your award letter to addressing payment issues, our attorneys at Gordon, Wolf & Carney are dedicated to ensuring that your benefits meet your short- and long-term needs.
Located in Hunt Valley, Maryland, our firm serves clients in Maryland and nationwide. With over 100 years of combined experience, we’ve assisted countless individuals through various aspects regarding Social Security Disability benefits.
Whether you need help with reviewing your payments, preparing for a Continuing Disability Review, or exploring work incentives, we are equipped to provide the guidance you need. If questions or concerns arise about the next steps after your approval, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.