In April 2025, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) will continue to provide economic benefits to persons who are unable to work due to a disability in what is known as “Gainful Substantial Activity,” or SGA. By 2025, the average monthly benefit will be $1,751.08, a 2.5% increase from 2024.
This method is intended to reward individuals who earned the least during their working lives in a more equitable manner. This amount is different for everyone because it is determined by how much each person has contributed over their working life. It is calculated using a formula similar to that for retirement benefits.
How are SSDI benefits calculated?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) considers the applicant’s 35 highest-earning years and adjusts them for inflation. Then, a tiered formula is used: 90% of the first $1,226 of monthly income is awarded, 32% of $1,226 to $7,391, and 15% of anything above that sum. The outcome is known as the Primary Insurance Amount (PIA), which determines how much is received each month.
Additionally, the amount is unaffected by the severity of the handicap. The SSA emphasizes that delaying the application to wait for an aggravation would not result in an increased benefit. Payments are revised annually based on the cost of living index, ensuring that their purchasing power remains constant in the face of inflation.
There are income limitations to qualify for SSDI benefits.
In 2025, the monthly income maximum to retain eligibility is $1,620 ($2,700 for the blind). Exceeding this figure increases the risk of losing the benefit, but there are initiatives like Ticket to Work that offer verification of work without affecting payments. The SSA eliminates passive income, such as dividends and private pensions, from this assessment.
Self-employed individuals must record their earnings using particular criteria outlined in the SSA Red Book. Jobs in disabled-friendly environments are eligible for exemptions if their earnings do not exceed the maximum. To prevent punishment, the entity recommends that you notify them of any job activity.
SSDI payment dates for April 2025.
During the month of April, the SSA delivers payments to SSDI beneficiaries on three separate days that are shared with retirement beneficiaries. Payments are made on the second, third, and fourth Wednesdays of the month, with the following dates:
- Wednesday, April 9: Beneficiaries born between the first and tenth of the month.
- Wednesday, April 16: Beneficiaries born on the 11th and 20th of any month.
- Wednesday, April 23: Beneficiaries born on the 21st or 31st of any month
How can I apply for SSDI in 2025? The SSA offers numerous avenues.
Applications can be submitted online, by phone (1-800-772-1213), or in SSA locations. They need a medical history, a diagnosis confirmed by doctors, and confirmation of identity and citizenship. The process requires a physician authorization paperwork and can take up to six months. The initial complaint rate is 63%, however those who are refused may appeal with more proof.
Once an application for SSDI benefits has been officially granted, the SSA typically issues the first payment within 1-2 months.
We must remark. Payment does not occur immediately upon approval. Even if you already have an acceptance letter, there is a little administrative procedure that must be followed before funds are issued. If you provided banking information, your initial payment will normally be made via direct deposit. If not, it can be transferred via check, albeit this may take longer.
