How Will I Get My SSDI Benefits?

The Payment Process for Receiving Social Security Disability Insurance

As a Memphis SSDI lawyer, I hear the question all the time: “How will I get my SSDI benefits once I’m approved?”

Below in this blog post, you’ll find everything you need to know about the SSDI payment process. And if you have other questions, you can contact me.

Basics of SSDI Benefits and How You Qualify

You first need to qualify for SSDI benefits and apply successfully to receive your first payment.

Essentially, SSDI is an insurance program that you pay into every paycheck through your taxes. If you ever become unable to work due to a disability, you can apply for benefits. Assuming you qualify and can prove you have a disability that prevents you from receiving income, you may receive SSDI.

We’ve written extensively on how to qualify for SSDI. We even offer a free report on the basics of the SSDI application process.

The Payment Process for SSDI

Once you’ve been approved, you’ll receive a regular payment from the SSA. Generally payments happen on the second, third, and fourth Wednesday of each month (usually determined by your birth date). Since 2011, the payments have mostly been electronic. They arrive either through direct deposit or the Direct Express® card program.

If you lose your check or someone steals it, you should report the lost income immediately to the SSA. They have the ability to cancel the transfer and reset your balance. Bear in mind, the SSA deals with chronic underfunding and understaffing issues, so you may face long waits in the process. This is one reason they switched over to electronic payments, which can limit everyone’s risks in situations like this.

What to Do If You’re Denied SSDI Benefits

Many people with very serious disabilities who qualify in every way may be shocked when the SSA denies their disability claim. Unfortunately, the SSA denies the majority of claims on the first try. They have many reasons for this, including their own internal issues. But often, it hinges on a successful application.

Your application needs to prove beyond the shadow of a doubt that you have a disability and it impacts your ability to earn an income. Many people don’t realize how much information they need to include. Extensive details, including medical documents and doctor testimonies, can make all the difference.

Some people apply over and over, making the same mistakes each time. But you certainly don’t have to. You can actually appeal using the help of a lawyer. After you receive a denial, you have 60 days to appeal. And our attorneys can help.

We strengthen your claim and find any holes in your initial application. Then we represent you before the appeals court and help you present the best case possible. Moreover, we don’t get paid anything unless and until we win your claim – and even then it’s only a small portion of your past-due payments. You keep every dollar moving forward.

If you’re in a rush to receive SSDI benefits, don’t wait to get started. Remember you only have 60 days to appeal.

Just contact us online today or give us a call at 901-327-2100. We can answer any questions and help you get the benefits you need before times runs out.