The SSDI Waiting Period

By law, SSDI benefits include a five-month waiting period after the official date the Social Security Administration (SSA) decides your disability began. This means:

• Your first payment will usually cover the sixth full month after your disability onset date.
• The onset date is determined during the application review and may not match the date you stopped working.
• This rule applies nationwide, including Texas.

When to Expect Your First Payment in Texas

Once approved:

• Payments typically begin one to two months after approval, depending on SSA processing times.
• The SSA pays benefits the month after they are due. For example, if you’re eligible in June, you’ll receive payment in July.
• Most payments are made through direct deposit to your bank account.

Back Pay for SSDI in Texas

If your case took months (or even years) to approve, you may be entitled to back pay, which covers the time between your disability onset date and your approval date. Important details:

• Back pay is usually sent in a lump sum.
• It may cover months or years of missed benefits, minus the five-month waiting period.
• If you had an attorney, their fee (capped by SSA rules) may be deducted directly from your back pay.

SSDI Payment Schedule

The SSA pays benefits based on your birth date:

• 1st–10th of the month: Paid on the second Wednesday.
• 11th–20th of the month: Paid on the third Wednesday.
• 21st–31st of the month: Paid on the fourth Wednesday.

This schedule applies in Texas just like in other states.

What Can Delay SSDI Payments in Texas?

Even after approval, delays can happen if:

• The SSA needs additional bank information for direct deposit.
• There are errors in your application or work history records.
• Your case requires review for SSI eligibility in addition to SSDI.