It depends on whether or not your claim is for ssi or social security disability. If it's concurrent, meaning both, then the ssi portion of the claim will be processed first, then once that is complete, a payment center will process the disability side of the claim. If it's an ssi claim, a claims rep from the ssa office will be calling you or they will send you a notice with a date and time telling you when they need to talk with you. In all, everything should be done within about 30 days, if it's just ssi, probably a bit sooner. The ssa will determine how much your monthly and past due amount is then you will be sent a check or direct deposit if you provided them with bank account info when you filed. If the ssa approved your claim and you didn't have to go before an alj, you had better check to see what date they found you disabled. 99% of the time, when there is a favorable decision issued on the initial level, which in itself is very rare, they do not go back very far if at all prior to the date of application. When the ssa says you became disabled and when you alleged to have become disabled is often two different dates. If you disagree with the date that the ssa found you disabled, then you may want to consider filing an appeal. On the other hand, if you're okay with missing out on past due benefits, then you can accept what they gave you.