In April 2025, the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program continues to support people in the United States who are unable to work due to a disability. These benefits are given to those who cannot perform what the Social Security Administration (SSA) calls Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).
With a 2.5% increase over last year, the average SSDI benefit in 2025 has risen to $1,751.08 per month. This financial aid is especially important for individuals and families who depend on steady monthly support due to disability-related job loss.
How SSDI Benefits Are Calculated in 2025
The SSA calculates your SSDI benefit using a formula similar to retirement benefits. The main factors include:
- Your 35 highest-earning working years, adjusted for inflation
- A tiered formula applied to your average monthly earnings
Here’s how the benefit is calculated:
- 90% of the first $1,226
- 32% of the amount between $1,226 and $7,391
- 15% of anything above $7,391
The total is called your Primary Insurance Amount (PIA). The type or severity of your disability does not affect the amount. Delaying your application due to worsening health will not increase your monthly payment.
Income Limits for SSDI Eligibility in 2025
To remain eligible for SSDI in 2025, your monthly income must not exceed:
- $1,620 per month for most people
- $2,700 per month if you are legally blind
Note: This limit only applies to earned income (wages or self-employment), not passive income like:
- Dividends
- Rental income
- Private pensions
If you go over the income limit, your benefits may stop. But programs like “Ticket to Work” let you try working again without immediately losing your benefits. For the self-employed, income must be reported as per the SSA Red Book rules.
SSDI Payment Dates in April 2025
SSDI payments are made on Wednesdays, grouped by the beneficiary’s birth date. Here are the payment dates for April 2025:
- April 9 (2nd Wednesday) – For those born between the 1st and 10th
- April 16 (3rd Wednesday) – For those born between the 11th and 20th
- April 23 (4th Wednesday) – For those born between the 21st and 31st
Payments usually arrive through Direct Deposit. If you haven’t shared your bank details, you will get a paper check, which may take longer to arrive.
How to Apply for SSDI in 2025
You can apply for SSDI benefits in three ways:
- Online via the SSA website
- By phone at 1-800-772-1213
- At a local SSA office
What you need to apply:
- A complete medical history
- A professional diagnosis
- Proof of identity and citizenship
- A signed medical release form
The decision process may take up to six months. Around 63% of first-time applications are denied, but you can appeal with more evidence.
After Approval:
Once your application is approved, it takes 1–2 months to receive your first SSDI payment. This delay is due to some administrative steps, even if you already have an approval letter.