Step 1: Understand How Disability Benefits Are Calculated

The first step in understanding how to increase your disability benefits is knowing how they are calculated. Both SSDI and SSI benefits are based on different factors:

• SSDI Benefits: The amount of your SSDI benefits is based on your past earnings. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a formula to calculate your average lifetime earnings, and the higher your income during your working years, the higher your monthly SSDI payment will be.
• SSI Benefits: SSI benefits are needs-based, meaning they are determined by your income and resources. SSI is designed for individuals with low income and limited resources, and the maximum monthly benefit is set by the federal government but can be adjusted based on the state you live in.

Step 2: Consider a Reconsideration or Appeal for Higher Benefits

If your disability benefits are too low, you may be able to request a reconsideration or file an appeal to get a higher payment. Here are some options:

• Request a Reconsideration: If you believe your SSDI or SSI benefits are calculated incorrectly or that you should be receiving more, you can request a reconsideration. This is a review of your case where the SSA will examine your claim and make adjustments if they find errors.
• File an Appeal: If you disagree with a decision made by the SSA regarding your benefits, you can appeal to an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) for a hearing. This is especially useful if there is new evidence, such as updated medical information, that may support an increase in your benefits.
• Submit a Request for an Updated Medical Evaluation: If your condition has worsened, you may be able to request a new medical evaluation to increase your benefits. If you can prove that your disability has become more severe, the SSA may adjust your benefits to reflect your current condition.

Step 3: Report Any Changes in Your Income or Living Situation

If you are on SSI, reporting any changes to your income, resources, or living situation may help increase your benefits. For example, if your living expenses have increased or you’ve incurred new costs related to your disability, you can report these changes to the SSA to have them reassess your situation. Some specific changes that may lead to an increase in SSI benefits include:

• Living Alone or with Fewer People: If you live alone or have fewer people in your household, the SSA may determine that you are eligible for a higher SSI payment.
• Increased Disability Expenses: If your medical or disability-related expenses have increased, you may be eligible for additional support. For example, you may be able to claim costs for special transportation, medical equipment, or home modifications.

Step 4: Seek Assistance from a Disability Lawyer or Advocate

Working with a disability lawyer or advocate can help you better understand how to increase your disability benefits. These professionals can help:

• Ensure Accuracy: Lawyers can help make sure that all the information in your application is accurate and complete, which can prevent any errors that may lead to lower benefits.
• Guide You Through the Appeal Process: If you want to challenge the amount of your disability benefits, an experienced lawyer can help you file an appeal or reconsideration with the SSA.
• Help with Medical Evidence: Lawyers can help you gather updated medical documentation or additional evidence that may support an increase in your benefits.

Since disability lawyers usually work on a contingency fee basis (you only pay if you win), consulting a lawyer can often be a risk-free way to ensure you’re doing everything possible to get the maximum amount of benefits you are entitled to.

Step 5: Apply for Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA)

If you are receiving SSDI or SSI benefits, you may be eligible for Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA), which are annual increases in benefits to account for inflation. The SSA adjusts the benefits every year to reflect increases in the cost of living as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This means that your disability benefits could increase automatically each year.

You don’t need to apply for COLA increases — they are automatically applied to your payments if you qualify. Keep an eye on the annual COLA announcement to see if your benefits will increase.

Step 6: Reapply for Disability Benefits After a Recovery or Relapse

In some cases, you may be able to apply for a new disability claim after your condition worsens or if you experience a relapse in your health. If you were once denied disability benefits or received a lower amount due to partial recovery, a worsening of your condition or a relapse can be a valid reason to reapply or file for a new claim.

In this case, the SSA will evaluate your updated medical evidence, and if your condition has become more disabling, you may qualify for a higher benefit.

Step 7: Ensure You Are Receiving All Possible Benefits

In some cases, individuals may not realize they are entitled to additional benefits. Here are a few things to check:

• Family Benefits: If you have dependents, they may also be eligible for benefits based on your SSDI claim. This can include children, spouses, or even divorced spouses who meet certain conditions.
• Other Public Assistance Programs: Depending on your situation, you may qualify for other public assistance programs, such as food stamps (SNAP), Medicaid, or housing assistance. These programs can help ease the financial burden and improve your overall quality of life.