Tennessee Life Producer Practice Exam

How many months must an individual be disabled before applying for Social Security disability benefits?

1. 3 months

2. 5 months

3. 6 months

4. 1 year

The correct answer is: 5 months

An individual must be disabled for at least five full calendar months before they can apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. This waiting period starts from the onset date of the disability, which is the first day of the month following the month in which the individual becomes disabled. For example, if the onset of the disability is in June, the person would be eligible to apply starting in December. This five-month waiting period is designed to ensure that the disability is long-term rather than temporary, reflecting the program's focus on helping those with significant and ongoing impairments. Understanding this timeline is crucial for individuals seeking to navigate the SSDI application process successfully.