### Question
How does the law define retroactive benefits?


### Answer
Under *42 U.S.C. § 402*, **retroactive benefits** is defined as:

> benefits to which an individual becomes entitled for a month prior to the month in which application for such benefits is filed

#### Citation:
  - *42 U.S.C. § 402*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 6-THE CHILDREN'S BUREAU > SUBCHAPTER II-FEDERAL OLD-AGE, SURVIVORS, AND DISABILITY INSURANCE BENEFITS**

