How Many Years of Social Security Back Pay Can You Receive

[lameri]

Hi, my husband died 9+ years ago and I was told I didn't qualify for benefits because I wasn't 60. So only my 2-year-old son was granted benefits.

Now it turns out it was a mistake (my appointment was yesterday). They'll look into the archives Monday. Additionally, they said my son could have received benefits since birth because of his dad being on disability. That is an additional 2.5 years of benefits.

What should I expect? When will they pay me back? We are talking about $100+ I was entitled to by law but weren't paid. Will they pay interest? Will they adjust for inflation? How will taxes be handled?
Thanks.

[Mr. Knowitall]

Did you actually apply for benefits way back when somebody told you that you didn't qualify? If so, when (how many years ago) did you apply for those benefits, and when (how many years ago) was your application denied?

[comment/ator]

And what did they tell you when you asked during your appointment?

[Mercy&Grace]

Your son isn't entitled to backpay from when his father was on disability. Even if your husband had listed him on his application, you must apply for dependent benefits with in 12 months of the parent being approved.