Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a U.S. federal program that helps workers who become disabled and cannot work. It is run by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and is based on the contributions workers have paid through taxes while working.
What is SSDI?
SSDI provides monthly cash payments and access to Medicare after certain waiting periods. Unlike Supplemental Security Income (SSI), SSDI depends on your work history and previous payments into the system.
To qualify, you must have a medical condition that stops you from doing substantial work, and the condition must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
SSDI Payment Dates for June 2025
- June 3, 2025 (Tuesday): Payments go to beneficiaries living outside the U.S., those receiving both SSI and SSDI, and those whose state pays Medicare premiums.
- June 11, 2025 (Wednesday): For people born between the 1st and 10th of any month.
- June 18, 2025 (Wednesday): For those born between the 11th and 20th of any month.
- June 25, 2025 (Wednesday): For those born after the 20th of any month.
Payment dates are based only on the day of the month you were born, not the birth month or year.
How Much Does SSDI Pay in 2025?
Your monthly SSDI payment depends on your work history and earnings before you became disabled.
- The maximum monthly benefit is $4,018 for workers with high pre-disability income who meet all eligibility requirements.
- The average monthly payment for individuals without dependents is about $1,580.
- For beneficiaries with eligible dependents, the average rises to approximately $2,826.
How Many Work Credits Do You Need to Qualify for SSDI?
To qualify for SSDI, you need to have earned enough work credits based on your age when you become disabled.
- If disabled between ages 21 and 24, you need about 18 credits (roughly 1.5 years of work).
- If disabled between ages 24 and 31, you need 42 credits (about 3.5 years).
- If disabled after age 31, you need 60 credits (5 years) earned within the 10 years before your disability started.
Credits are earned through paying Social Security taxes during your working years.
SSDI offers vital support for workers who become disabled, but it requires meeting specific work and medical criteria. Knowing your payment schedule and eligibility requirements can help you plan better if you or a loved one depends on these benefits.