Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) offers critical financial support to those facing serious health conditions that prevent them from working. However, accessing this benefit is not automatic: it requires meeting specific medical and work criteria. Below, we break down the essentials.
Payments are sent in three groups each month, categorized according to your date of birth. First, people with births 1 to 10 get paid on the second Wednesday of each month. Then, those born from the 11th to the 20th receive payment on the third Wednesday of the month. Then, those who comply after the 21st of each month see their benefits paid on the fourth Wednesday.
This is followed very strictly, and only changes if any of these three Wednesdays coincides with a holiday. In this case, payment is advanced to Tuesday. For example, in February 2025, the last group will receive funds on the 26th. If the deposit does not appear after the assigned date, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) to clarify any issues.
Requirements to access SSDI
The disability must be verified by professionals and documented in reports that demonstrate its severity and duration (minimum one year or expectation of being terminal). The SSA lists eligible conditions in its “Blue Book,” excluding temporary or mild conditions. Before applying, verify that your condition is included in thi eligible conditions in its “Blue Book,” s book.
40 work credits are needed, of which 20 must have been obtained in the last decade. Each credit in 2025 is equal to $1,810 of income. Exceptionally, young adults with early disabilities may have flexibility in this requirement. That is, unlike other programs such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is based on need, the SSDI program depends on the individual’s work history.
Amount of benefits: How much can you receive?
The maximum monthly payment is $4,018, an exceptional figure applicable only to those who accumulated 35 years of high contributions and were born before 1954. For the majority, the amount varies depending on previous income and age when applying. Even if you don’t reach the maximum, SSDI can alleviate essential expenses.
Many are unaware of their eligibility and remain in critical situations without seeking help. Professional guidance can make the difference between vulnerability and financial stability.
Since we mentioned the SSI program before, it is worth adding that it is possible to complement SSDI benefits with SSI benefits, in case you can’t make ends meet because your income is not enough.
If SSDI is low (e.g. $800), SSI could make up the difference. However, the SSA rigorously evaluates all resources, including family supports. When both are approved, the payments are merged into one deposit, although SSDI may partially reduce the SSI amount.
The maximum for SSDI is $4,018, while SSI provides up to $967 for an individual, $1,450 for a couple, and $484 as a subsidy for a person’s payment of essential assistance.
