If you wait too long before applying, your prior earning base will be lower. If you are still symptomatic to the point of impacting your ability to make an income over $1000 per month, you should apply at the 1 year mark. If your condition is questionable, they will likely deny your first application. You can continue to reapply and appeal if your condition stays disabling.

The important issue is getting the first application in at the one year mark. I waited a few years as my income declined due to my problems. When I finally did apply, my base income was down more than 50%. It decreased the monthly benefit by a substantial amount.

If it takes three years to get approved, they use the first application date to determine your base pre-injury income levels. You can not qualify until you have been disabled 12 months.

The application process has benefits in itself. It causes you to take a serious look at your condition and also get assessed by the SSDI doctors.

Think of it this way. When you are out in ab small boat and you cannot swim, you wear a life preserver. You don't wait until the boat is sinking to put it on.

Getting you SSDI application in at the earliest opportunity is like a life preserver or income preserver. If you don't need it later, you can withdraw the application. SSDI will review you case every few years to see if you still qualify.