1. What is SSDI Back Pay?

• SSDI back pay refers to the retroactive payments a claimant receives for the period between their disability onset date and the approval of their SSDI benefits.
• The amount of back pay depends on the date the individual became disabled and the date they were approved for SSDI.
• Back pay is paid as a lump sum or in installments, depending on the amount owed and SSA guidelines.

2. How SSDI Back Pay is Calculated

• Back pay starts from the date the SSA determines you became disabled, which is known as the established onset date (EOD).
• The SSA calculates how much is owed based on your disability application date and how long it took to approve your claim.
• The total amount of back pay can include benefits for months between your EOD and approval date.

3. How SSDI Back Pay Works in New Mexico

• In New Mexico, SSDI back pay is handled in the same way as in other states, with payments made after approval of your disability claim.
• You may receive up to 12 months of retroactive payments if you applied for SSDI more than a year after your disability onset.
• State-specific guidelines do not affect how SSDI back pay is calculated, but payment processing may vary based on SSA resources.

4. Limitations on SSDI Back Pay

• SSDI back pay is limited to a maximum of 12 months for claims filed after the disability onset date.
• If you have delayed your application, you may receive fewer months of back pay, depending on how much time passed between the onset of your disability and when you applied.
• The SSA does not pay back pay for periods before the disability onset date or after the approval date.

5. Why SSDI Back Pay Matters

• Back pay helps bridge the financial gap for individuals who have been unable to work due to disability.
• It provides a lump sum payment to cover lost income during the waiting period between your disability onset and approval.
• Timely access to SSDI back pay can help claimants manage basic living expenses and medical costs during the approval process..

6. Receiving Your SSDI Back Pay in New Mexico

• After approval, back pay is typically issued within 60 to 90 days, though the process can vary.
• Direct deposit is the most common method for receiving SSDI payments in New Mexico.
• If you have other financial obligations, such as overdue bills or creditors, be prepared to use your back pay to cover these essential expenses.