Types of Disability Benefits: SSDI vs. SSI

There are two main types of disability benefits administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA): SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) and SSI (Supplemental Security Income). The amount of money you receive will depend on which program you qualify for.

SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)

SSDI benefits are based on your work history and how much you’ve paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes. The amount you receive is typically calculated based on your average lifetime earnings. In general:

• The More You’ve Worked: The more you’ve paid into Social Security, the higher your SSDI benefit will be.
• Average SSDI Payments: As of 2025, the average monthly SSDI payment is about $1,400. However, the actual amount can range from $800 to $3,000 or more, depending on your lifetime earnings.

How to Calculate Your SSDI Benefit

The SSA uses a formula called the “Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME)” to calculate your SSDI benefit. Your AIME is based on your highest-earning years before you became disabled. The SSA will use this figure to determine your Primary Insurance Amount (PIA), which is the monthly benefit you’ll receive.

SSI (Supplemental Security Income)

Unlike SSDI, SSI is a need-based program for individuals with limited income and resources. SSI benefits are not based on your work history. Instead, they are determined by:

• Your Income: If you have little to no income, you may qualify for SSI.
• Your Resources: The SSA looks at your resources, such as savings or assets. To qualify, you must have less than $2,000 in resources ($3,000 for couples).

SSI Payment Amounts

As of 2025, the federal SSI payment for an individual is $914 per month, and for a couple, it’s $1,371 per month. However, these amounts can be higher if you live in a state that supplements the federal payment, such as in Kansas or other states with additional disability benefits.

Additional Factors That Affect Your Disability Payment

Several factors can influence the amount of your disability benefits, including:

• Family Members: If you have dependents, your monthly SSDI payment may increase. For example, children or spouses who depend on you financially may be eligible for additional benefits.
• Other Income: If you are receiving other forms of income or benefits, such as workers' compensation, your SSDI payment may be reduced.
• Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA): The SSA makes yearly cost-of-living adjustments to ensure that disability benefits keep up with inflation. These increases are typically based on changes in the Consumer Price Index.