Legal Question in Social Security Law in Alabama

Re: Social Security backpay

Following an approval for SSI benefits, the Social Security Administration will be verifying your income/assets for all months since the date you were found to be disabled. They will then determine the amount of your monthly benefit and the amount of any back benefits you are due. If your benefits exceed a certain amount, those back benefits may be paid in separate installments about 6 months apart. The length of time it takes for you to receive your back pay can vary, so I am unable to give you anything other than a loose estimate of 4-8 weeks after a determination of approval has been made.

Bear in mind that any lump sump back benefits will need to be spent down within the month they are received, or else they will be counted as income and can cause a reduction of your current SSI benefit.