How long should you wait before you file for disability?
Answer: if you feel your condition or conditions prevents you being able to work, or prevents you from being able to work and earn a living that equates with SGA (this is the earnings limit for individuals who are applying for or are already receiving disability benefits --- this page addresses the limit: substantial gainful activity or SGA ), you should not wait a day to file for disability.
Here's a quote I found in a social anxiety support forum. "I am finally trying to get my butt in gear and apply for disability. I should have done this about 3 or 4 years ago - I am kicking myself for not having the motivation to do this sooner."
You really don't want to be in this kind of position because when a person (who should have filed) actually gets around to filing, this is what they find. 1. The application process for disability is long; 2. Most claims get denied; 3. If you have to appeal, the appeals process is long.
I've said it many times. From beginning to end, you can easily get stuck in the federal government's disability system for 3 years or longer. That doesn't happen to everyone. But since there is the potential of it happening, you need to get your disability application going if you sincerely feel the need to do so. Don't procrastinate.
Return to the Social Security Disability SSI Benefits Blog
Other Posts
Apply for disability
Approved for disability
Social Security Disability Appeal

<< Home