Once you're on disability how can you get access to more of your backpay?

if it was social security benefits the back pay is paid all at once.

Since it isn't being paid all at once then it must be SSI and I find it really, really hard to believe that SSI would owe you anywhere near $24,000 considering that the maximum benefit is now $733 a month and it was even less last year and less the year before.

However, if it is SSI and is truly due you installments are made six months apart. If you want extra money you need to go to your local SS office and speak with a claims rep who is the person who would approve - or not approve - your request for release of more money earlier.

Source: I was a social security claims rep for 32 yrs.

Since you won't be getting $24,000, you still have the problem of furnishing your apartment. I recommend you buy your own mattress, to avoid bed bugs. But the rest? You'll need a way to pick up the items, but you can get most things you need on Freecycle.org

Paying off? That you have to do on your own. You're now stuck with living within your means.

I'm not sure what you are considering "backpay," but I received a second check of about $5,000 a few weeks after the first one.

If you had a Social Security Attorney represent you, they may have gotten it, but they can also anwer your questions.

You can go onto the Social Security website ssa.gov and ask your question, or you can call your local office, because they are the ones who have all your information in the computer and can give you a detailed answer.

No one else can do anything but suggest you contact them.

Ask them!

ok