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What Happens After You Win Your Social Security Disability Case?

Congratulations on winning your Social Security Disability case! Whether it’s through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), receiving an approval after what is often a long and challenging process is a major relief. Many claimants in Melbourne, FL, and across Brevard County wonder what comes next—when will payments arrive, how is back pay handled, what about health coverage, and what ongoing responsibilities do you have?

As a disability attorney serving the Melbourne area, I’ve helped many local clients navigate this post-approval phase. Here’s a clear breakdown of what typically happens after a favorable decision from the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Receiving the Letter

You will receive a letter from the Social Security Administration informing you about your approved application. The letter will contain you Established Onset Date (EOD), how much your monthly payments will be, any back payment amount and the date when payments are expected to start.

Back Pay (Retroactive Benefits) – The Lump Sum

For SSDI: There’s a mandatory 5 full calendar months waiting period after your EOD before benefits begin (the sixth month). Back pay covers eligible months for up to 12 months before the approval of your application. There’s no dollar cap on total back pay.

For SSI: Back pay starts from your application date (or protective filing date), with no 5-month wait, but reduced by countable income/resources during that time.

When Monthly Benefits Begin and How They’re Paid

SSDI payments start in the sixth full month after onset (after the 5-month wait). Benefits are paid the month after they’re due (e.g., December entitlement paid in January). For SSI, it usually starts the month after approval/application, paid on the 1st of the month (or earlier for some). Direct deposit is standard. Set it up via your my Social Security account for faster access.

Summary

Getting approved for disability can be a challenge, especially for complex cases. Applicants have the choice of filing an application themselves or hiring legal assistance to help them. Because of errors made during the application process, the approval rate is much lower when the individual files themselves.

An attorney doubles your odds of being approved on the first go around. An attorney also doubles your odds of winning on appeal. Once you are approved you will receive an official notice from the SSA. In it will be very important information about your benefit amount and when payments start.