Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments for May 2025 will follow a structured schedule based on the beneficiary’s birthdate. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has set these payment dates in the same way for other benefits such as retirement benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Payment Schedule Based on Birthdate
- May 14: Beneficiaries born between the 1st and 10th of the month will receive their SSDI payments on this date.
- May 21: Payments for those born between the 11th and 20th will be distributed on this day.
- May 28: If your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st, your payment will be made on the last Wednesday of May.
Exceptions to the Payment Schedule
Some beneficiaries may experience a deviation from this regular payment schedule. This applies to individuals who receive SSDI and SSI concurrently, those who lived outside the U.S. before 1997, or other special categories. These individuals may receive their payments earlier, on May 2, as May 3 falls on a Saturday (and payments are not made on weekends or holidays).
It’s always recommended to check your payment history and verify exact dates through your SSA account at SSA.gov/myaccount. If there are any delays in receiving payments, it’s suggested that you wait at least three business days before reaching out to your local SSA office.
Can You Receive Both SSDI and SSI Payments?
Receiving SSDI and SSI Simultaneously
It is possible to be eligible for both SSDI and SSI benefits at the same time. To qualify for SSDI, you need a work history with at least 40 work credits, which equals around 10 years of employment, along with a medical disability that has lasted more than one year.
On the other hand, SSI does not require work credits and is aimed at those with limited income and resources. The eligibility criteria include:
- Income: Individual income under $2,000 or $3,000 for couples.
- Age and Disability: Must be 65 years or older, blind, or living with a disability.
2025 Maximum SSDI and SSI Amounts
Maximum SSDI Amounts for 2025
- For individuals who qualify for SSDI and have a high lifetime income from 35 years of work, the maximum monthly payment is $4,018 at full retirement age (67 years for those born in 1960 or later).
- Individuals applying for benefits before age 67 will see a reduction in the amount. For instance, at age 62, the maximum SSDI payment drops to $2,831 per month.
Maximum SSI Amounts for 2025
- An individual receiving SSI will receive up to $967 per month.
- A couple can receive up to $1,450 per month.
These amounts reflect a 2.5% cost of living adjustment (COLA) for 2025, which is higher than the increase granted in 2024.
Potential Reductions in SSI Payments
The amount of SSI payments can be affected if the beneficiary has additional income or resources. For example, receiving SSDI at the same time will reduce the final SSI payment.
How to Apply for SSDI and SSI Benefits
Applications for SSDI and SSI can be made online at the SSA’s website (SSA.gov), over the phone, or in-person at local SSA offices. If you are applying for both programs, you will need to submit documentation, such as:
- Work history
- Medical conditions
- Financial resources and current income
The SSA will evaluate your applications together if submitted at the same time. The application process typically includes interviews and medical reviews, which may take several months to complete.
Reporting Income and Resource Changes
SSDI Income Reporting
Beneficiaries of SSDI must report any employment income that exceeds the $1,620 per month limit ($2,700 for blind individuals). Exceeding this limit will result in the suspension of benefits, as it is considered substantial work activity.
SSI Resource Reporting
For SSI recipients, any change in resources (e.g., inheritance, increased savings) must be reported immediately. If the asset limits are exceeded, SSI benefits may be temporarily or permanently suspended.
Family Benefits for SSDI Recipients
Family members of SSDI beneficiaries, such as spouses or minor children, can receive an additional 150% to 180% of the original SSDI payment, subject to a family maximum. The exact amount depends on the number of dependents and the base SSDI amount.
Important Notes on Family Benefits
- These additional family payments do not impact the primary beneficiary’s maximum SSDI payment.
- Beneficiaries must notify the SSA for approval of these family payments.
Understanding the SSDI and SSI payment schedules and eligibility requirements is crucial for those receiving or applying for these benefits. By staying informed about the payment dates, potential delays, and rules regarding work credits and income reporting, you can ensure you are receiving the maximum benefits available to you.
FAQs
Can I get SSDI and SSI at the same time?
Yes, it’s possible to receive both SSDI and SSI if you meet the eligibility requirements for both programs. SSDI requires work history and a disability, while SSI does not require work credits and helps those with limited resources.
What happens if I earn more than the SSDI income limit?
If your income exceeds $1,620 per month ($2,700 for blind individuals), your SSDI benefits may be suspended, as this would be considered substantial work activity.
How are family members affected by SSDI benefits?
Family members, such as spouses or minor children, may receive up to 150% to 180% of the original SSDI payment, depending on the number of dependents, without reducing the main beneficiary’s SSDI amount.