SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is a U.S. federal program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Its operation is based exclusively on prior FICA contributions paid by working people.
It provides monthly cash benefits and access to Medicare after established waiting periods, but is distinct from the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, which is not tied to a beneficiary’s work history. SSDI coverage applies only to medically verified disabilities that prevent substantial gainful activity (SGA).
SSDI payment dates in June 2025
Several specific groups will receive their payments on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. This includes people residing outside the United States. This also applies to those who receive both SSI and SSDI simultaneously. It also applies to beneficiaries whose state pays their Medicare premiums.
Wednesday, June 11, 2025, is assigned to beneficiaries with birthdates between the 1st and 10th of any month. This assignment is independent of the specific month of birth. It is based solely on the day of the month in which the person was born.
The same criteria are used for those who receive the benefit on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, corresponding to those whose birthday is between the 11th and 20th of the month. And finally, Wednesday, June 25, 2025, is the date for beneficiaries with birthdays after the 20th.
Amounts established for SSDI during 2025
SSDI benefit amounts depend directly on the beneficiary’s work history and previous income, which were contributed prior to the health condition that now prevents them from working.
By 2025, the maximum possible monthly benefit amount reaches $4,018. This amount applies to workers with high pre-disability income. Furthermore, they must strictly meet all SSA eligibility requirements.
The average monthly amount for individual beneficiaries without dependents is $1,580. When the beneficiary has eligible dependents, the national average rises to $2,826. These figures reflect the average calculated based on contributors’ historical income.
How Many Credits Do You Need for SSDI?: Varies by age at disability
Eligibility for SSDI is governed by strict criteria defined by the SSA. The central element is the legal definition of disability. The medical condition must prevent the individual from performing any substantial, gainful employment activity.
The disability must be expected to last at least 12 consecutive months or result in death. This definition includes physical, mental, or a combination of both. The conditions must be medically documented and verified.
But perhaps the most defining aspect is work credits. These are earned by working and contributing to the Social Security system through FICA taxes. The required amount varies depending on the worker’s age at the time of disability.
If the disability begins between ages 21 and 24, 1.5 years of covered work (18 credits) are required. For ages 24 to 31, the requirement increases to 3.5 years of covered work (42 credits). These credits must have been earned within a specific period.
If the disability begins after age 31, five years of covered work (60 credits) within the 10 years before the onset of disability are required. The SSDI program is designed for workers who become disabled before reaching full retirement age.
