From Onset to First Payment
Social Security Disability has a built-in delay period. Your onset date is another term for the date that Social Security believes your disabilities made you unable to work. This is the date that you are eligible for benefits. However, Social Security does not actually issue payments until the 6 th full month after the onset date.
If you wait to apply for Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income, or have to appeal your case, your approval may not come for many months after your onset date.
When your payments begin, Social Security also pays out the benefits that you should have received in the time between your onset date and the date of your first payment. These are called back benefits.
For a free legal consultation with a lawyer serving Pittsburgh, call (412) 661-1400
Don’t Miss Out on Social Security Disability Benefits
It is important to remember that Social Security will only pay back benefits up to one year prior to the date your claim was first filed. This is important for several reasons. First, you should apply as soon as possible so you don’t miss out on benefits. Second, you should appeal a denial, because an appeal retains the original date of filing. Any new application will have a later filing date, causing you to lose potential benefits.
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Fee Structure and Back Benefits
Berger and Green does not charge you for their services unless your claim is awarded. When it is awarded, the government regulates the fees that can be charged, and allows attorneys to take a certain percentage (up to 25%) of your back benefits as payment, up to a maximum of $6000, plus certain expenses. These fees are paid directly to the attorney from your back benefits.
If you are disabled and cannot work for at least 12 months, you should apply as soon as possible. Don’t let concerns over how to pay for an attorney prevent you from getting experience and knowledge in your corner. The attorneys at Berger and Green can help you determine if you are eligible, answer any questions you may have, and assist you in your claim, all at no upfront cost to you. If you are having trouble with a physical or mental disability, call Berger and Green for a free consultation about your claim today.
Free case evaluations • NO attorneys’ fees or costs unless we recover a settlement, benefits, or verdict in your case • We can initiate your case by phone or e-mail – CALL today (412) 661-1400 or Contact us online
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