Why Is the Date of Onset Important for Social Security Disability Claim?

Q: Is there anything you can do to hurry along scheduling for a social security disability hearing?
A: Most claimants who are awaiting a court date for their social security disability claims have been in the review process for a long time. Finding a way to expedite the hearing cycle would be welcomed by most applicants. It is not easy, however, to do this. Applicants who are experiencing financial difficulty can submit a dire need letter outlining their situation. Such a letter will need to be accompanied by evidence of financial need, such as delinquent account letters from utility companies and lenders. The Office of Hearings and Appeals can then decide if expediting the hearing process is appropriate. Another option is to request an on the record review. This simply means that your file is reviewed prior to your scheduled court date. If all goes well, your case is approved at the on the record review and will not have to be heard before a judge. The third option to try to speed up a social security disability hearing is with a congressional inquiry. The office of your Congressman or Senator must contact the Office of Hearings and Appeals on your behalf. Regardless of what method you choose to try to speed up the hearing process for your social security disability claim, it is generally recommended that you seek counsel from a lawyer or legal advocate.
Q: Why is the date of onset important?
A: The date of onset is simply when your medical condition began and, as a result, you could not longer be employed. The onset date is used to calculate when you are entitled to begin benefits and any social security disability back pay.
Q: Does everyone who is awarded social security disability benefits receive back pay?
A: No, not all claimants receive back pay. That being said, most cases do receive back pay. That is simply due to the fact that it can sometimes take years before a claim makes it through the process. For the fortunate social security disability claimants whose cases are approved within a matter of months, retroactive benefits may not be necessary. The date of onset of your injury will be used to calculate back pay. It is important to apply for benefits as soon as possible, as there are limits to how far prior to your application date you are eligible to receive back pay.

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