Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a key support program for Americans who can’t work because of a serious disability. Run by the Social Security Administration (SSA), SSDI provides monthly payments to help cover living costs. But to qualify, you need a work history where you paid into Social Security.
Let’s look at how SSDI payments are scheduled in April 2025, how much you could receive, and the basic rules to apply for benefits.
April 2025 SSDI Payment Dates
Each month, SSDI payments are sent out in three waves, based on your birth date:
- If your birthday is between the 1st and 10th, you were paid on April 9, 2025.
- If your birthday falls between the 11th and 20th, your payment came on April 16, 2025.
- If you were born after the 21st, your payment will arrive on April 23, 2025.
It’s important to make sure your banking details are updated with the SSA to avoid any payment delays.
Average and Maximum SSDI Amounts in 2025
The amount of money you get from SSDI depends on your past earnings and work credits. Here’s what to expect in 2025:
- The average monthly SSDI payment is $1,580.
- The maximum monthly payment can reach $4,018 if you are at full retirement age (67 years old).
These numbers include a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) added in October 2024 to help people keep up with rising prices.
SSDI payments aren’t just cash support. After you receive SSDI for 24 months, you also become eligible for Medicare, which covers hospital stays and prescription drugs. Monthly SSDI checks help many people afford basic needs like rent, groceries, and transportation.
Who Can Apply for SSDI Benefits?
Applying for SSDI is different from applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Here’s what you need to qualify:
- Work Credits: Most people need 40 credits, and at least 20 of them must have been earned in the last 10 years. If you are under 31, you might need fewer credits based on your age.
- Medical Condition: You must have a serious, long-term disability that will last at least 12 months or could result in death. The disability must stop you from doing substantial work.
- Income Limits: In 2025, if you earn more than $1,550 per month from work, you might not qualify (different limits apply if you are blind).
- Residency: You must be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident and not be serving time in a federal prison.
How to Apply for SSDI
If you think you meet the requirements, it’s easy to start the application process. Just visit the official SSA website and go to the SSDI portal. You’ll find everything you need to know about applying and checking updates on your claim.