So you got approved for Disability benefits. YAAAAAAY!! Congratulations. After stressing, waiting, and going through this lengthy process, you are finally going to get your disability benefits. Even better, you are so happy with your representative who was successful in helping you get your benefits.
However, now comes the confusing part. What happens next? When are you getting paid? Who pays your attorney? When should you expect the money? Now, it seems that you have more questions than you do answers.
Well, here’s a few things to help you out:
1) About 60 to 90 days before you get paid.
There is no hard rule on how fast it takes you to get paid. IN most instances, it takes about 60 to 90 days to process your pay.
2) Why does it take so long?
Even though it may not seem like it, it takes longer to calculate your disability benefits than it it is to get disability. Think I’m joking? Here’s how it works. First, they have to figure out which programs you qualify. Second, they have to determine if there are any programs that offset the benefits. Third, they have to determine if there is any retroactive benefits. Fourth, they have to determine if there is any benefits going forward. Fifth, they have to calculate any representative fees and ensure they get paid. Sixth, they have to determine if there is a need for a representative payee. Finally, they have to deal with any other issues that pop up. Interestingly enough, this process may take place at two different Social Security offices that must talk to each other. See how this may take a while.
3) How does my representative get paid and WHEN does my representative get paid?
This question is one that I get alot. In terms of “HOW”, Social Security is responsible for calculating the back pay. From that back pay, Social Security will withhold 25% towards attorney fees. For example, lets say that your back pay is $10,000. 25% of $10,000 is $2500 which means your attorney will receive $2500 and you will receive the remaining $7500. Now, the WHEN part is trickier. The reason it’s trickier is because Social Security will sometimes release the check to the attorney first (Usually because this part is the easiest to calculate) and then send the rest to the claimant.
4) Why am I getting all of this Paper from Social Security?
Over the next few months, you will received “Important Notices” and “Award Notices”. These papers are crucial because they explain IN DETAIL everything you’re entitled to receive as well as a discussion of how your representative gets paid, any offsets, and future benefits.
5) Why did I get a Medicare card in the mail? Do I have to keep Medicare?
If you qualify for Disability Insurance Benefits (this is different from SSI), then after receiving 24 months of benefits, you are entitled to Medicare. So if your back pay takes you back to October 2007, you will receive a benefits starting October 2009. Now, here’s the tricky part. You have to pay for Medicare and they take it DIRECTLY out of your monthly Disability Insurance Benefits check. If you DON’T want it, just remember that there is a penalty if you decide to come back later (Contact Medicare, they can help you on this one).
6) Should I call Social Security’s 1-800 number or the local office if my money is late?
I always tell people that they can call who they want to but recognize this point. The Toll free number for Social Security is NOT designed to answer all of your questions once you’re paid. Once you get paid, a different office takes over (so the 1-800 will probably not be helpful). The local office can help if you are entitled to receive SSI but your DIB check may be processed in Alabama, Maryland, or New York.
7) I’m fighting foreclosure and an eviction. Will that help?
If you have documentation that you are about to be evicted or foreclosed or your health has turned terminal (i.e. you may be dying), give evidence of this information to Social Security as soon as possible. This information may assist them in speeding up your case.
Congratulations on your case. I know it’s a long time coming but you deserved it. So just be patient a little while longer and it should all work out for you.
