Suffering a major injury can be challenging. If you work, it’s completely normal to worry about keeping your job. But an even bigger concern might be about financial support. Specifically, you may be anxious to know if you can receive significant benefits while you cannot work due to your disability. If you’re eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), it’s extremely important to familiarize yourself with the benefits system. Doing so can help ease your worries and ensure you receive the maximum amount of the aid you’re entitled to.
When you look at the benefits those with different work histories receive, you’ll notice that the amounts vary. This variation is due to several factors. These factors determine the specific amount each person can get based on their circumstances.
How much you can get
If you’re curious about the maximum benefits you can get from SSDI, the answer isn’t straightforward. It ultimately depends on the maximum monthly benefits set by the SSA. For instance, in 2023, the highest monthly SSDI benefit is $3,627. This amount is set to increase in 2024 to $3,822. However, these are just the largest amounts. The average disability pay is usually less.
For example, in October 2023, the average disability pay from Social Security was $1,665.14 monthly. The average SSDI monthly benefit also varies by state due to differences in cost of living and individual lifetime earnings. In Texas, for instance, the average SSDI payment in 2023 was $1,548.71. These numbers show that the amount you get from SSDI can vary widely depending on where you live.
Factors that affect the amount of benefits
The SSA sets the maximum SSDI benefit amounts you can receive each year. This system, which is quite complex, bases its calculations on “bend points” and your personal earnings history. However, the actual amount you receive can be influenced by factors other than your past earnings. For instance, the SSA may consider the Social Security taxes you’ve paid. They may also look at whether or not you are receiving any other benefits, such as workers’ compensation or public disability benefits. If you believe you’re getting less than you should, it may be beneficial to seek assistance from an attorney. They can help you understand the maximum benefits you can get based on your specific situation.