WHAT IS THE "DATE LAST INSURED"?

Social Security disability is a type of insurance.  Like all insurance, it began on a certain date and will expire on a certain date.  The expiration date depends on when you stop working.  Usually, Social Security disability insurance expires about 4 years after you stop working.  (This can vary depending on several factors).

The last day you are covered by Social Security disability insurance is called your "Date Last Insured" or DLI.  You cannot file a new claim after your DLI. 

Let me use this example.  Let's say I purchase a homeowners insurance policy from the XYZ Mutual Insurance Co.  My coverage is for one year.  It begins on January 1, 2013 and expires on December 31, 2013. If I have a new claim on my policy on February 15, 2014, I have no insurance because my policy has already expired.

If you want to be sure you have Social Security disability insurance, you can call your local Social Security office or call 800-772-1213.  Ask if you have enough work quarters to be insured for disability, which is often called "Title 2" by people at Social Security.  If you do have disability insurance with Social Security you could file a new claim.  If you do not you would may not be able to file a claim.  (Exceptions:  You can appeal a claim filed prior to the DLI; you can file a new claim alleging an onset date prior to the DLI if you have not had a decision after the DLI).  You are only allowed one initial decision after your date last insured.

Also, you might still be able to file for SSI (sometimes called "Title 16" benefits).  SSI is for individuals or families with low household income and very limited assets.  SSI claims do not require a work history or "quarters of coverage."

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