Back Pay
The retroactive disability benefits owed to an approved SSDI claimant, covering the period from the established onset date (minus the 5-month waiting period) through the month of approval.
Back pay is paid in a lump sum shortly after your claim is approved. Unlike SSI back pay, SSDI back pay has no installment rule — you receive the full amount at once. The longer the claim takes to process, the larger the back pay can be.
→ SSDI back pay does not count against any resource limit.
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Frequently asked questions about Back Pay
What is SSDI (Back Pay)?+
The retroactive disability benefits owed to an approved SSDI claimant, covering the period from the established onset date (minus the 5-month waiting period) through the month of approval. Back pay is paid in a lump sum shortly after your claim is approved.
Who qualifies for Back Pay?+
Adults under full retirement age who have a qualifying medical condition expected to last 12+ months and who have earned enough recent work credits.
How do I apply for Back Pay?+
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. There's no cost to apply.
Where can I get help?+
Run the SSDI Filing Success Score to check your readiness, then the SSDI Benefit Estimator to size up your monthly payment. Local Social Security field offices can also help you apply at no cost.