When does Social Security offer backpay?

There are several circumstances when Social Security offers back pay for benefits.  Social Security will give you back pay if they receive information about your earnings record that changes your benefit amount.  For instance, suppose that when you begin receiving benefits Social Security tells you are entitled to $1000 a month.  Six months after you benefits begin,  Social Security receives updated earnings information that changes your monthly benefit to $1200 a month. You will receive the difference for the two amounts as back pay.  Another scenario where you would receive back benefits would be in a situation where you do not receive benefits until after a hearing.  It can take up to two years to get a hearing on a claim for benefits.  You would be entitled to back benefits from the date you are found to be disabled, which could mean 18 to 24 months or more of back benefits.

You should consider contacting an attorney who specializes in disability law and has experience in handling Social Security cases.  He or she could give you more information about filing for disability benefits.