Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) continues to offer economic benefits in April 2025 to people who, due to a disability, cannot work in what is known as “Gainful Substantial Activity,” or SGA. By 2025, the average monthly benefit will increase to $1,751.08, which represents an increase of 2.5% compared to the year 2024.
This system is designed to benefit more proportionately those who earned the least during their working life. This amount is not the same for everyone, since it depends on how much each person has contributed during their working life. The formula used to calculate it is very similar to that for retirement benefits.
How are the SSDI benefits calculated?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) takes into account the applicant’s 35 highest-earning years, adjusting them for inflation. Then, a tiered formula is applied: 90% of the first $1,226 of monthly income is awarded, 32% of the amount between $1,226 and $7,391, and 15% of anything above that figure. The result is known as the Primary Insurance Amount (PIA), and it is what determines how much is received each month.
Additionally, the severity of the disability does not influence the amount. The SSA emphasizes that postponing the application to wait for an aggravation will not increase the benefit. Payments are updated annually based on the cost of living index, ensuring they maintain their purchasing power against inflation.
There are income limits to qualify for SSDI benefits
In 2025, the income limit to maintain eligibility is $1,620 per month ($2,700 for people who are blind). Exceeding this figure implies the risk of losing the benefit, although there are programs such as Ticket to Work, which allow proof of work without affecting payments. The SSA excludes passive income, such as dividends or private pensions, from this calculation.
Those who are self-employed must report their earnings under specific criteria detailed in the SSA Red Book. Jobs in disabled-friendly settings can get exemptions if wages do not exceed the limit. The entity urges you to notify any work activity to avoid sanctions.
SSDI payment dates in April 2025
During the month of April, SSA sends payments to SSDI beneficiaries on three dates that are shared with retirement beneficiaries. Payments are made on the second, third, and fourth Wednesday of the month, set for the following dates:
- Wednesday, April 9: Beneficiaries born between the 1st and 10th of any month
- Wednesday, April 16: Beneficiaries born between the 11th and 20th of any month
- Wednesday, April 23: Beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st of any month
How to apply for SSDI in 2025? The SSA offers several avenues
Applications are submitted online, by phone (1-800-772-1213), or at SSA offices. They require medical history, diagnosis confirmed by professionals, and proof of identity and citizenship. The process includes a medical authorization form and can take up to six months. The initial complaint is 63%, but those rejected can appeal with additional evidence.
Once an application for SSDI benefits been officially approved, it takes on average 1-2 months for the SSA to issue the first payment.
We must remark Payment is not immediate upon approval. Even if you already have an approval letter, there is a small administrative process that must be completed before funds are released. The first payment usually arrives by direct deposit if you provided banking information. If not, it can be sent by check, which may take longer.
