Beneficiaries of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) should be aware that an important payment is set to be disbursed on December 24, 2024. The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers these federal funds and has outlined the relevant information pertaining to this payment.
This is the last group of SSDI beneficiaries to get their payment this month: this group is constituted by those disabled workers claiming their payments that have birthdates between the 21st and the 31st day of any month. The other two groups received their deposits on December 11th and December 18th.
SSDI benefits amounts as of December 2024
The amount received through SSDI is determined by the beneficiary’s prior income, as the program is structured to provide tailored financial support based on individual circumstances. As of December 2024, the average and maximum benefit payments are as follows:
- Average monthly payment: $1,537
- Payment for beneficiaries who are blind: Up to $2,590
- Maximum possible payment: $3,822
Moreover, December marks the final month during which the 2024 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) of 3.2% will be applicable. Beginning in January 2025, an additional COLA increase of 2.5% will be implemented, reflecting adjustments for annual inflation. This new rate will remain effective until the end of 2025.
Eligibility for SSDI Benefits in 2025
Eligibility for SSDI benefits is not automatic for all individuals with disabilities; specific criteria must be met. To qualify, applicants need to fulfill the following conditions:
- Demonstration of a Significant Disability: Applicants must provide medical evidence of a physical or mental condition that substantially limits their ability to work. This condition must either be expected to last at least 12 months or be classified as terminal.
- Inability to Engage in Substantial Gainful Activity: In addition to being unable to perform previous work roles, applicants must also show that their disability prohibits them from engaging in any meaningful work within the national economy, as outlined in Section 223(d) of the Social Security Act.
- Sufficient Work History: Another critical requirement is that the applicant must have accumulated adequate work credits through employment that contributes to Social Security. Typically, this means having worked for at least 10 years or having accrued enough credits within the last 35 years.
From January 1st, 2025, the benefits will grow following the cost of living adjustment (COLA), which for the fiscal year 2025 is set to be 2.5%, the lowest adjustment in the last four years. This is the result of a cooling inflation at the end of the current government.
