HOW MANY TIMES CAN YOU APPLY FOR SSDI BENEFITS?

There is no limit on the number of times an individual may apply for SSDI benefits.

However, there is a thing called "Date Last Insured" (DLI) that may stop you.

Date last insured is the term used for the date your disability coverage at Social Security expires.  Most people are unaware that Social Security has an expiration date.  Generally, coverage for disability expires within 5 years after you stop working and paying into the program.

This affects new claims.  If you are already approved and getting SSDI benefits, there is no such thing as "date last insured" for you.  The term refers to the limitation on filing a new claim.

If you are considering a new SSDI claim, you should first find out when your DLI is.  This is done by calling your local Social Security office and asking.  If your DLI is in the future, you are fine.  If your DLI is in the past, it may complicate filing a new claim.

Generally, you are entitled to file one (and only one) SSDI claim after your date last insured.  However, you must prove that your disability began prior to the DLI.  For example, if your DLI was 12/31/17, you would need to prove that your disability onset was before 12/31/17.  Otherwise, your disability began too late to be covered. You will only be allowed to file one SSDI claim after 12/31/17.

It's important to understand that SSDI is insurance for workers.  It is paid for by paying FICA taxes which are withheld from every paycheck you receive.  When you stop working and no longer pay FICA tax, the clock begins to tick toward the date you will no longer be "insured" for SSDI claims (the DLI).
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THE FORSYTHE FIRM
Social Security Representation
7027 Old Madison Pike - Suite 108
"Across from Bridge Street"
Huntsville, AL 35806
PHONE (256) 799-0297

Email us for a free consultation:   forsythefirm@gmail.com

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