Social Security Disability Insurance FAQ
MOCA is partnering with Cancer Legal Care throughout 2024 to help our ovarian cancer survivors and families gain insight into relevant legal issues. This month, Cancer Legal Care’s Meghan Scully helps answer common questions about Social Security Disability Insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions about SSDI’s Five-Month Waiting Period
Is there a waiting period for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits?
Yes. If Social Security finds you disabled, you will need to wait 5 full months from your disability onset date to get your first SSDI payment. Your onset date is the date that Social Security determines you became disabled based on their rules.
Does the 5-month waiting period apply to Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
No. The 5-month waiting period does not apply to SSI benefits.
I have Stage IV ovarian cancer. Does the 5-month wait period still apply to me?
Yes. The 5-month wait period still applies. There is no exception for metastatic cancer.
My diagnosis is on the Compassionate Allowance list. Does the 5-month wait period still apply to me?
Yes. The 5-month wait period still applies. There is no exception if your diagnosis is on the Compassionate Allowance list.
I was diagnosed with cancer in January and stopped working on February 15th. If I apply for Social Security Disability Insurance after I stop working, when will my benefits start?
You will likely receive your first SSDI check in September.
The 5-month wait period applies to the first full 5 months that you are disabled. If Social Security finds you disabled starting the first day you could not work, February 16, the first month of the 5-month wait period will be March. You will not receive an SSDI payment for March, April, May, June, or July.
The first month you are eligible for payment will be August. SSDI payments are paid the month following the month the payment is due. SSDI benefits due in August are payable in September.
I have more questions about Social Security benefits, where can I get answers?
Cancer Legal Care is here to help.
Contact help@cancerlegalcare.org or 651-917-9000.
