To qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, you must be at least 18 years old and have a sufficient work history and a disability expected to last at least a year or result in death. You must also be unable to perform your previous job or adjust to other work due to your disability, nor can you have been denied SSD benefits within the past 60 days.

Once approved, there is a five-month waiting period before you can begin receiving SSD payments after approval. By law, the Social Security Administration cannot pay benefits until you’ve lived with a disability for at least five whole months. The payment cycle typically starts on month six.

You must submit your SSD benefit denial appeal within 60 days of receiving the denial notice. Acting promptly is essential, as missing this deadline can jeopardize your ability to appeal the decision.