Can I apply for SSDI retroactively in New York if I was disabled for years before filing?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 12/15/2025
Can I apply for SSDI retroactively in New York if I was disabled for years before filing?
In New York, you may be eligible for retroactive SSDI benefits
if you were disabled for a period before submitting your application.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) typically allows you to claim benefits from up to
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Eligibility for Retroactive SSDI Payments
To qualify for retroactive benefits in New York, consider:
- Proof of disability through medical records showing you were disabled before filing.
- The SSA’s 12-month look-back period limits how far back you can claim benefits.
- Filing date impact as benefits generally start no earlier than 12 months before your application.
Understanding Disability Onset Date
The onset date is crucial because:
- It defines when your disability started according to SSA records and medical evidence.
- Accurate documentation from doctors or specialists helps establish this date effectively.
- SSA may request additional evaluations to verify onset.
Reasons Retroactive Benefits Can Be Denied
Common causes include:
- Insufficient medical proof of disability before the application.
- Claims filed too long after disability onset beyond the SSA allowance.
- Missing work credit requirements for the retroactive period.
Impact of Late Filing on Benefits
Keep in mind:
- Delays in filing reduce the amount of retroactive payments you can receive.
- Filing sooner usually improves your chance of getting back pay.
- Legal representation can assist with overcoming limitations.
SSA's Evaluation Process
The SSA will:
- Review medical evidence to confirm disability and onset date.
- Determine your eligibility for retroactive benefit payments.
- Communicate with claimant or representative for any clarifications needed.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
Hogan Smith advocates for New Yorkers seeking retroactive SSDI payments by:
- Gathering and presenting thorough medical documentation to verify your disability start date.
- Advising on filing strategies to maximize the amount of retroactive benefits you can claim.
- Navigating SSA’s complex evaluation process, ensuring your application includes all necessary evidence.
- Assisting with appeals and reconsiderations if retroactive benefits are denied or delayed.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you wonder Can I apply for SSDI retroactively in New York if I was disabled for years before filing?, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. Our knowledgeable team will help you pursue eligible retroactive SSDI payments and guide you through the entire application and appeal process with confidence.
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