The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) will make its next monthly payment on March 19, 2025, to beneficiaries born between the 11th and 20th of any month.
This disbursement system, in place since 1997, schedules payments on three Wednesdays each month based on the date of birth. Those who received benefits prior to May 1997 will be paid on the third, which falls outside of this date.
The program, funded by FICA taxes, assists people with severe disabilities who are unable to work for at least 12 months or who have a terminal illness. Unlike SSI, which is based on economic need, SSDI requires a credit-verified work record. In 2025, each credit represents $1,810 in income, with a maximum of four credits per year, totaling $7,240.
Amounts vary depending on work history: the average benefit in 2025 is $1,580, but some may receive up to $4,018. This payment benefits those who meet specific eligibility requirements and is based on previous contributions to the system.
Here is who qualifies for disability benefits
Eligibility is based on work credits, which vary by age. Those under the age of 24 require 6 credits in three years; from 24 to 30, half the years from 21; and over 30, 20 credits in the last ten years.
For those over 62, 40 credits are required, with 20 of them being recent. “The SSDI is a federal program financed by FICA taxes, intended for people with severe disabilities that prevent them from working for at least 12 months or with a terminal prognosis,” according to the official rules! This criterion does not consider the severity of the disability when determining amounts.
Approximately two-thirds of beneficiaries receive less than $1,580, with typical payments ranging from $900 to $1,600. Those with dependents, such as a spouse or children, earn a family average of $2,800 after accounting for previous financial responsibilities.
Calculation and additional benefits some may ask (if qualifying)
The SSDI calculation is based on average indexed income (AIME), which is derived from past income. In 2025, the maximum is $4,018, exceeding SSI, which pays $967 to individuals and $1,450 to couples. The amount is calculated based on previous contributions rather than the disability.
After 24 months of receiving SSDI, beneficiaries can access Medicare, which provides medical coverage. This benefit provides long-term support to those who are eligible for the program based on their work history.
The system prioritizes economic stability: the $4,018 cap distinguishes SSDI from other Social Security programs, reflecting differences in funding and purpose between SSDI and alternatives such as SSI.
How to apply and deadlines for SSDI
Applications are accepted at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, and at SSA offices. Medical documentation consistent with the SSA “Blue Book” and employment records are required. Approval can take several months, followed by a five-month wait for the first payment.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) cases approved after July 23, 2020 miss this deadline. Furthermore, the Trial Work Period (TWP) allows you to work for nine months without losing benefits, while the Extended Eligibility Period extends coverage by 36 months if your income is limited.
The most common illnesses that qualify for SSDI
In the United States, musculoskeletal diseases are the most common conditions for which people receive SSDI benefits. This category includes conditions like severe arthritis, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and amputations.
According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), these diagnoses limit one’s ability to perform physically demanding tasks such as lifting, standing, or walking for extended periods of time.
The SSA assessment assesses joint function loss, movement limitations, and impact on employability. Because of their high prevalence among the working population, these diseases are one of the leading causes of SSDI approval.
Mental disorders are the second most common reason for seeking SSDI. Conditions like severe depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and disabling anxiety have an impact on cognitive, emotional, and social abilities.
The SSA analyzes the severity of the symptoms, their duration, and how they limit interaction in work environments or compliance with schedules.
The agency evaluates cases based on the applicant’s age, education, and previous work experience. For example, a diagnosis of recurrent major depressive disorder necessitates evidence of hospitalizations, failed treatment attempts, or documented impairment in work performance.
These requirements are intended to ensure that only those with debilitating conditions receive benefits.
For both categories, the SSA requires objective medical evidence such as MRIs, psychiatric reports, or functional evaluations.
In musculoskeletal cases, loss of mobility is measured using tests such as the Range of Movement Scale. Diagnoses and records of ongoing therapies are required for mental disorders under the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5).
Applicants must show that their condition has persisted for at least 12 months or is terminal. Furthermore, the disability must preclude not only your previous job, but all current employment in the national economy. This last point, known as the residual capacity rule, is critical in 68% of initial denials, according to 2023 data.
