I'm cautiously optimistic but still a bit nervous until I get that letter in the mail.

Any of us who have gone through this totally understand your feelings...

Lets hope you hear something very, very soon!

totally understandable and i dont blame you!

I was finally approved in January and received my backpay about a week afterward. My benefits started as of April 2017 even though my date of disability was October 2016.

They automatically sent my disability attorney the 25% of the backpay. That was a pleasant surprise because I assumed I would have to pay them out of the amount deposited in my account.

They gave me to cost of living adjustment on the back pay.

I'm trying to figure out when I'll be eligible for medicare, on the start of benefits date anniversary or the date of disability? I'm thinking it will be April 2019 according to the pamphlet they sent me.

Medicare eligibility begins 24 months after SSDI benefits begin. Although your Established Onset Date was 10/16, there is a 5 month waiting period and then benefits are paid the following month, therefore your first month of SSDI payment was 4/17. I believe your Medicare benefit eligibility should begin in 3/19.

If you can afford a Medigap policy and Part D policy that is often preferred, but some states have good Advantage plans and they tend to be more economical. You may also qualify for extra help. The "Find someone to talk to" link option on this link will direct you a free SHIP counselor:
Supplements & other insurance | Medicare.gov