Direct answer
What is a closed period of disability?
A closed period of disability is an SSDI finding that you were disabled for a defined past period of at least 12 months but recovered enough to work before the decision, so benefits are awarded only for that closed period.
The concept is addressed in HALLEX and applies when the medical improvement occurred before the decision date.
Sourced from ssa.gov — see citations below.
When is a closed period awarded?
When the SSA finds disability that lasted or was expected to last at least 12 continuous months, then medical improvement or return to substantial work ended the disability before the decision.
What benefits are payable?
Back pay for the closed period, after the five-month waiting period; no ongoing monthly benefits.
Can I appeal a closed-period decision?
Yes — you have 60 days to appeal to the Appeals Council if you disagree with the closed-period end date or scope.
Topics
Sources
Every figure and rule on this page is drawn from official SSA publications. Verify at the links below.
- SSA HALLEX — Closed Period of Disability (ssa.gov)
- SSA — Hearing Process (ssa.gov)