Questions about SSI back pay vs Social Security Disability Back Pay   Potentially, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) back pay may be paid back to the date of filing, i.e. the date that you filed an application for SSI benefits. For Social Security Disability, benefits may be paid back to the date of your application, but may potentially be paid 12 months retroactive to this date, as well, assuming that your medical records allow for a disability onset date this far back. Related Pages: 1. How Far Back Will Social Security Pay Benefits? 2. What is the maximum back pay you can get for Social Security Disability? 3. How Far Back Can SSI Back Pay Be Paid? 4. What is Social Security Disability Back Pay? With both programs, if an individual is approved for disability and has filed prior applications for disability benefits, the possibility may exist that those applications may be reopened, thus allowing for the payment of even more back pay. However, as with a claimant's onset date, this will depend on the strength of the medical evidence. However, it should be said that, in the case of SSI, even if your case rates a medical allowance (meaning that you have satisfied the medical disability criteria), the non-medical criteria for the SSI program may prevent you from being paid a disability benefit. Non-medical criteria, of course, has to do with income and resources (assets). How is the determination made regarding non-medical criteria in SSI cases? Once your SSI disability claim has been allowed, a Social Security representative (not a claimant's representative, such as a lawyer, but, rather a Claims Reps at a social security office) will contact you to ascertain your income and resources. You will be paid for any months that your income and resources are below the SSI income and resource levels. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: Why should I pay a disability lawyer? Getting disability forms completed by a doctor Getting a good disability lawyer Permanent disability benefits Decision on my Social Security Disability or SSI case Can I get partial disability benefits? SSD, SSI disability awards at age 50, 55 Eligible for disability back pay benefits If You Get Workers Comp, Will You Get Disability From Social Security? What medical disabilities Qualify for Disability Benefits? Filing for disability with a rotator cuff injury How long does SSDI and SSI disability take to get? If Your Disability Benefits Are Stopped Can You Get Them While You Appeal? How Long Does It Usually Take To Get Social Security Disability Foot Drop and Filing for Disability