If you're applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), one of the first questions you’re probably asking is: How much money will I receive each month? The amount you can get from SSDI varies from person to person and depends on your work history and earnings. Below is a clear breakdown of how SSDI benefits are calculated and what you can expect.
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How SSDI Payments Are Calculated
SSDI is not a need-based program—it’s based on how much you’ve worked and paid into Social Security over the years. Your monthly payment is determined by your:
- Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME): This is your average earnings over your working years, adjusted for inflation.
- Primary Insurance Amount (PIA): The SSA uses your AIME to calculate your PIA, which is the base amount you’re eligible to receive each month.
The more you earned before becoming disabled, the higher your SSDI benefit will be—up to a maximum amount set annually by the Social Security Administration.
What Is the Average SSDI Payment?
As of 2024, the average monthly SSDI benefit is around $1,537.
However, this number can vary:
- Lower earners may receive around $900–$1,200/month
- Higher earners may receive up to the maximum of $3,822/month (as of 2024)
Your specific payment depends entirely on your earnings record, not on the severity of your disability or your current income level.
Additional Payments for Dependents
If you have qualifying dependents (like minor children or a spouse who cares for your children), they may also receive a monthly benefit—typically up to 50% of your SSDI amount. However, there is a family maximum limit, usually between 150% and 180% of your SSDI benefit.
Other Factors That May Affect Your Payment
Your SSDI benefit may be reduced or impacted if:
- You receive other government benefits, such as workers’ compensation or public disability benefits
- You earn money through work (above the SSA’s limits)
- You become eligible for retirement benefits, which may shift you from SSDI to regular Social Security
SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is a separate program based on financial need. You may qualify for both SSI and SSDI if your SSDI payment is low enough.
When Do SSDI Payments Begin?
SSDI has a
five-month waiting period after your disability onset date before you can begin receiving payments. If your application takes several months to process (which is common), your first payment may include
back pay for the time you waited—up to
12 months prior to your application, if applicable.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
Understanding SSDI payments and ensuring you receive the maximum amount you're entitled to can be overwhelming. At Hogan Smith, we can help you:
- Estimate your potential SSDI benefit
- File your SSDI application correctly
- Gather documentation to support your earnings and work history
- Appeal a denied claim and protect your back pay
- Ensure your dependents receive the benefits they’re eligible for
Contact Hogan Smith Today
Ready to find out how much SSDI you might qualify for—or need help applying or appealing? Contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation. We’re here to help you get the benefits you’ve earned and deserve.
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