Understand How SSDI Benefits are Calculated

Before trying to increase your benefits, it’s important to understand how your SSDI benefit amount is determined:

• Work History and Earnings: SSDI benefits are based on your work history and the amount you paid into Social Security through payroll taxes. The more you earned (and paid into Social Security), the higher your benefit will be.
• Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME): The SSA calculates your AIME by looking at your highest-earning 35 years of work. The more you earned during those years, the higher your SSDI benefits will be.

Ensure Your Earnings Are Accurately Reported

If there are any discrepancies in your work history or earnings records, it could affect the amount of SSDI you receive. Here’s how to ensure you’re getting credit for your earnings:

• Review Your Social Security Statement: Regularly check your Social Security statement to make sure your earnings are accurately reflected. You can do this through the SSA’s online portal.
• Correct Any Errors: If you find mistakes, contact the SSA to correct your earnings record. Even small discrepancies can affect your benefit amount.

Appeal a Low SSDI Benefit Decision

If you feel your SSDI benefits are lower than they should be, you may be able to appeal the decision. Here’s what you can do:

• Request a Reconsideration: If you believe your benefit amount was calculated incorrectly, you can ask for a reconsideration of your case. The SSA will review your records and make any necessary adjustments.
• Appeal to the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If reconsideration doesn’t result in a favorable decision, you can request a hearing before an ALJ, who will review your case in detail and may increase your benefit amount if errors are found.

Reapply for SSDI After Improvement in Your Condition

In some cases, SSDI recipients are eligible for a re-evaluation or re-application if their health improves, especially if their condition has changed over time. Here’s what to know:

• Medical Improvement Review: If your condition improves and you are able to return to work, you may be re-evaluated for eligibility. While this can lead to a reduction in benefits, it can also result in a higher benefit if you are eligible for a higher payment after an improvement.
• Reapply for Higher Benefits: If you are no longer receiving the maximum SSDI benefit, but your disability has worsened, you can apply for a re-evaluation to see if you qualify for a higher benefit amount.

Consider Applying for Other Disability Benefits

In addition to SSDI, you might qualify for other forms of disability benefits that could increase your overall income:

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): If your income and resources are limited, you might be eligible for SSI, a needs-based program that can supplement your SSDI benefits.
• Workers’ Compensation or Other Disability Programs: If you qualify for other disability programs like workers' compensation, this could potentially increase your total disability income, although it may affect your SSDI benefit.

Delay Your SSDI Benefits to Increase Your Monthly Payment

If you are in good health and do not need your SSDI benefits immediately, delaying your application could increase your benefits in the long run. Here’s how:

• Delay to Full Retirement Age (FRA): If you qualify for SSDI and wait until your Full Retirement Age (FRA) (typically 66 or 67) to begin receiving Social Security benefits, your monthly payment may be higher, as the amount you receive will be based on your FRA.
• Delaying SSDI: While SSDI benefits do not increase by waiting like Social Security retirement benefits, if you qualify for Social Security Retirement benefits, you may receive a higher amount if you delay until your FRA.

Maximize Your Work Credits for Future Benefits

If you are still working or plan to work again, it’s important to maximize your Social Security work credits to increase your future SSDI benefits:

• Earn More Work Credits: SSDI benefits are based on how many work credits you have earned. You can earn up to four credits per year, depending on your income. The more credits you have, the higher your benefit can be.
• Work at Higher Income Levels: To maximize your SSDI benefits, aim to earn a higher income in your qualifying years of work. This will increase your AIME, and thus, your benefit amount.

Consider an SSDI Benefit Increase Through Family Benefits

If you are receiving SSDI benefits, certain family members may be eligible for auxiliary benefits, which could increase the total amount of Social Security benefits your family receives:

• Spouse and Dependent Children: Your spouse, children, or even dependent parents may be able to receive auxiliary SSDI benefits based on your disability. This can provide additional financial support for your family.
• Apply for Family Benefits: Ensure that your family members apply for these benefits if they are eligible, as it can boost your household income.

Explore Long-Term Financial Planning

While SSDI benefits can be a crucial part of your financial strategy, it’s important to also consider other sources of income to increase your financial security:

• Supplement Your SSDI Income: You may want to explore other financial options such as investment income, savings, or part-time work (if allowed under SSDI rules) to help make up the difference in your total income.
• Consult with a Financial Advisor: A financial advisor can help you plan your finances and make the most of your SSDI benefits, especially if you are considering other sources of income or ways to manage your money.