If you've applied for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you may have heard the term "back pay" come up—but what exactly does it mean? And more importantly, can you get back pay for disability? The short answer is yes, most approved applicants are eligible for back pay. Here’s what you need to know about how it works and how much you might receive.
Find out if you qualify for SSDI benefits. Pre-qualify in 60 seconds for up to $4,018 per month and 12 months back pay.
Please answer a few questions to help us determine your eligibility.
What Is Disability Back Pay?
Back pay refers to the benefits you should have received while your application or appeal was being processed. Because disability claims can take several months—or even years—to get approved, back pay ensures that you are compensated for that waiting period.
The amount and timing of your back pay depends on:
- The type of disability benefits you applied for (SSDI vs. SSI)
- Your established onset date (EOD)—the date the SSA determines your disability began
- The date you applied for benefits
- SSA’s five-month waiting period (for SSDI only)
SSDI Back Pay: What to Expect
If you’re approved for SSDI, you may receive:
- Back pay from your application date up to your approval date
- Possibly even retroactive benefits—up to 12 months before your application date, if your medical records support it
- Your payments will be lump sum, typically issued before your monthly checks begin
Note: SSDI has a five-month waiting period, meaning you won’t receive benefits for the first five full months after your established disability onset date. However, this waiting period does not apply to SSI.
SSI Back Pay: How It Works
For SSI, back pay is calculated from the date you applied, not your disability onset date. Key things to know:
- Back pay begins the first full month after your application date
- Payments are usually made in three separate installments (every six months), especially if the amount exceeds a certain threshold
- If you’re in urgent need, you may be able to request expedited payments
Because SSI is based on financial need, your income and resources during the back pay period could affect the total amount.
When Will You Receive Your Back Pay?
Once you're approved:
- SSDI back pay is typically issued in a lump sum, often before your first monthly payment
- SSI back pay may take a few weeks to months to arrive, and may come in installments
- The SSA will send you a notice explaining your back pay amount and payment schedule
Make sure your direct deposit information is up-to-date, or delays may occur.
Can Back Pay Be Taxed?
Yes, disability back pay may be taxable, depending on your total income and filing status. However:
- Many people who receive disability benefits do not end up owing taxes on them
- You can spread back pay over the years it covers when filing your taxes
If you're unsure, it's a good idea to speak with a tax professional.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we guide clients through every step of the disability process—including maximizing your back pay. Our team can help you:
- Establish the earliest possible disability onset date
- Submit accurate medical documentation to support your timeline
- Avoid unnecessary delays that could affect your payment
- Understand how much back pay you’re owed—and when to expect it
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you’ve been approved for disability or want help filing your claim, don’t miss out on the back pay you deserve. Contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. We’ll make sure your benefits—and your back pay—are handled the right way, from the start.
Further Reading
Boost Your Chance of Being Approved
Get the Compensation You Deserve
Our experts have helped thousands like you get cash benefits.
How It Works
1
Briefly tell us about your case
2
Provide your contact information
3
Choose attorneys to contact you