Workers with disabilities who are enrolled in Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) will be able to benefit from changes taking effect in January, approved by the Social Security Administration (SSA), one of the largest programs in the United States.
For those who cannot work due to a health condition, there are two main federal programs: SSDI and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Both programs are administered by the SSA, but differ in their goals and requirements. While SSDI is intended for those who have previously worked and paid Social Security taxes, SSI is designed for low-income people without significant work history.
Upcoming SSDI benefits and amounts
Average monthly payments for SSDI recipients are approximately $1,580, while the projected maximum for 2025 could reach $4,018. By comparison, SSI payments are considerably lower, averaging about $600.74 monthly, with a cap of $967 annually. These benefits, while providing some assistance, often do not cover the cost of living in several regions of the United States.
An Atticus analysis reveals that SSDI support covers less than 50% of basic living expenses, while SSI barely meets a third of its beneficiaries’ financial needs. This means that millions of people are forced to look for additional sources of income or depend on external help.
SSDI Payment Calculation and Adjustments
The Social Security Administration uses a method to calculate SSDI benefits that considers the 35 years in which a person had the highest income, adjusted for inflation. These income are used to determine the Primary Insurance Amount (PIA), which defines the benefit that beneficiaries will receive.
For the year 2024, the formula used establishes 90% on the first $1,174 of income, 32% for income between $1,174 and $7,078, and 15% for income that exceeds $7,078. This structure seeks to guarantee a more equitable distribution of benefits for those who have had lower incomes throughout their working lives.
Payment dates for January 2025 and scheduled increases
For those receiving SSDI benefits, payments are distributed according to the beneficiary’s date of birth. Payments are generally processed on the second, third, or fourth Wednesday of the month. Payment dates for January 2025 are set as follows:
- Recipients born between the 1st and the 10th will receive their payment on Wednesday, January 8.
- Those born between the 11th and the 20th will receive their payment on Wednesday, January 15.
- For those born between the 21st and 31st, payment will be on Wednesday, January 22.
If you do not receive your scheduled payment, the SSA advises waiting at least three business days before taking further action. It is also advisable to check your bank account settings.
Each year, the Social Security Administration reviews SSDI benefits to reflect changes in the cost of products and services through the cost of living adjustment (COLA). This adjustment is determined using the consumer price index for salaried workers. If the index shows a significant increase, payments are adjusted to allow beneficiaries to maintain their purchasing power.
