Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are vital lifelines for individuals unable to work due to medical conditions. Understanding the nuances of these programs, including waiting periods and Medicare eligibility, is crucial for those seeking support.

SSDI Waiting Period:

For SSDI applicants, there’s a five-month waiting period before receiving benefits. This waiting period, however, doesn’t apply to SSI recipients. The waiting period begins on your alleged onset date, the day you claim your disability began. If proven, this date marks the start of the five-month waiting period. Should your onset date precede your application, the SSA subtracts five months from your past due benefit amount.

Certain conditions, like ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease, waive the waiting period. Additionally, if you attempt to return to work and then find yourself unable to continue due to your disability, benefits can be reinstated without another waiting period, provided it’s within five years. Moreover, if you’re applying as the child of a disabled worker, you’re exempt from the waiting period.

Medicare Waiting Period:

Those receiving SSDI must satisfy a two-year waiting period for Medicare coverage, unless they’re 65 or older. For instance, if approved for SSDI at 64, Medicare coverage will commence at 65. However, if applying at any other age, the full two-year wait is necessary. Exceptions exist for life-threatening conditions like ALS or End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), where the waiting period is waived, and coverage begins sooner. These exceptions recognize the urgent need for medical care in such cases.

For legal assistance with a pending Social Security Disability Appeal, call attorney D. Scott Gordon at 804-440-6557 or visit dsgordonlaw.com