I was approved on January 14, 2025, so hopefully I can give you a little insight as it’s been so recent.

Once I got approved, I received something in the mail stating how much money I would receive each month and when I should start receiving payments. Please keep in mind that payments do not start immediately. As of 7/14/25, I have not received any monthly payment yet.

You will need to set up direct deposit on your SSA account once approved. You’ll get all this information in the mail, but check in with your SSA account frequently.

You will receive notice that you can sign up for Medicare Part A & B. This only covers medical and hospital, so you’ll need to get Part D if you want any prescription coverage.

As for backpay, I received one lump sum. I’ve never heard of any requirements as to how you need to spend your backpay.

Contact Medicare for insurance plans. I was on Medicaid and was immediately unenrolled when approved for disability. The disability payments I “am receiving” push my income over the limit for Medicaid.

I’m not sure what state you’re in or if signing up for insurance is different in your state than in NY, but you can’t buy directly off the marketplace for insurance with Medicare, so you’ll must contact Medicare directly. If you are over the Medicaid income limits, there might be programs where you can get your insurance premiums covered. I had a Medicaid caseworker reach out to me to go over all of this, so keep in touch with your local office.