We all breathe a sigh of relief when the judge tells us he’s going to approve benefits. But there are still some important steps to be aware of:
1. Call the Social Security Administration (SSA) (1-800-772-1213) to update your direct deposit information. SSA usually will not know that you’ve won so don’t confuse them – just tell them you want to update direct deposit information.
2. It will take about 2 months to receive the judge’s written opinion.
3. If you won SSD benefits only, wait for the Notice of Award letter (usually 1-2 months from the date of the judge’s written decision). Your past-due benefits will generally show up in your bank account close to the time you receive the Notice of Award letter.
4. If you won SSI benefits only, wait for SSA to contact you to set up a “Resource Meeting” at your local field office. This meeting is very important…you must go! About 1-2 months after this meeting, you can expect to receive your Notice of Award letter. You will receive your past-due benefits in installments.
5. If you won both SSD and SSI benefits, wait for the Notice of Award letter (usually 1-2 months from the date of the judge’s written decision). You will need to go to the Resource Meeting described above. About 1-2 months after this meeting, you can expect to receive your Notice of Award letter.