I just found out from my doctor that I am now disabled. When, and how do I go about filing for disability benefits?

You should apply for disability benefits as soon as you and your doctor determine that you are disabled.  It can take three to five months to get a decision on the initial application, assuming that you are successful on the initial application.  Most people who file for disability benefits have to go to the reconsideration level of appeal before getting a favorable decision.  The other reason for filing for benefits as soon as you and your doctor determine that you are disabled is the five-month waiting period.  Social Security does not pay benefits until five months after the date they find you are disabled.  Social Security law requires this five-month delay to be sure that the disability is severe, you are not entitled to benefits during that five-month period.

You should also consider obtaining legal counsel to assist you through the application process.  Social Security is complex and good Social Security lawyer can help shorten potential delays in the application process.