How SSD Benefits Are Calculated

The SSA uses a formula based on your work history and the amount of money you have earned while paying into the Social Security system. The process starts with determining your Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME), which is an average of your highest-earning years (up to 35 years of work). The SSA then applies a formula to convert your AIME into a Primary Insurance Amount (PIA), which is the base amount of your monthly benefits.

The actual amount you receive will depend on your PIA and may be subject to deductions based on the following factors:

• Your age: If you are under the full retirement age (FRA), your benefits may be reduced.
• Other income sources: In some cases, if you receive income from other sources, such as workers' compensation or pensions, your benefits may be reduced.

The Average Monthly SSD Benefit

While the amount you receive will vary, the average monthly SSD benefit in 2025 is approximately:

• $1,350 per month for a disabled worker.
• $2,260 per month for a disabled worker with a spouse and children.

The exact amount depends on your work history and the total number of work credits you’ve accumulated. It’s important to keep in mind that some people may receive more or less than the average amount.

Maximum SSD Benefit Amounts

The maximum amount of Social Security Disability benefits you can receive in 2025 is around $3,627 per month. However, this maximum is typically reserved for individuals who have earned the highest amounts throughout their careers and have a long work history.

Impact of Additional Family Members

If you have family members who are dependent on your income, they may also be eligible for dependent benefits. This can include:

• Spouse: If your spouse is over 62 years old or caring for a disabled child, they may receive benefits based on your work record.
• Children: If you have children under the age of 18 (or up to 19 if they are still in high school), they may also be eligible for benefits.

The amount each dependent receives is typically a percentage of your benefit, and the total amount can vary depending on the number of dependents.

How Long Will You Receive SSD Benefits?

If you are approved for Social Security Disability, you will continue to receive benefits as long as you remain disabled and cannot work. However, your benefits may stop if:

• Your condition improves to the point where you can return to work.
• You reach full retirement age, at which point your disability benefits will convert into retirement benefits.

Once you reach retirement age, the amount of your benefits will generally stay the same, but they will no longer be labeled as "disability" payments.