How long do I have to wait after becoming disabled before I can file for Social Security disability benefits or SSI?
You can file for Social Security disability benefits on the day that you become disabled. Many individuals make the mistake of waiting months and even years after their injury or illness causes them to be disabled before filing a Social Security disability claim. There is no reason to file a Social Security disability claim if one has only a minor illness or one which is unlikely to last a year or more. However, an individual who suffers serious illness or injury and expects to be out of work for a year or more should not delay in filing a claim for Social Security disability benefits. If that person is denied at the initial and reconsideration stage, then the hearing before an Administrative Law Judge will probably be held close to one year after the application was filed. Thus, it important to start the process as early as possible.
