The federal Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program provides payments to people who have accumulated enough work credits, after having worked a defined number of years, to claim payments if they are now unable to work due to a condition that compromised their health.
To be eligible, an applicant must demonstrate that their disability is listed on the SSA’s list of medical conditions or is comparable in severity, and must have worked and contributed to Social Security for the minimum required amount of time (generally 20 credits in the last 10 years, although this may vary depending on age at the time of disability).
Once approved, monthly SSDI payments provide a stable income that helps cover basic expenses such as housing, food, and supplemental medical care.
Second SSDI payment date: third Wednesday in May 2025
The second monthly SSDI payment is for beneficiaries whose birthday falls between the 11th and 20th of any month. In May 2025, the third Wednesday falls on May 21, 2025, so that is the day these beneficiaries will receive their automatic deposit.
Previously, payments were made on May 14 for those whose birthdays were between the 1st and 10th of any month. The final payment will be made on May 28 for beneficiaries whose birthdays were between the 21st and 31st of any month.
Those who receive payment on the 3rd of each month (whether they received SSDI before May 1997 or were simultaneously receiving SSI) had their payment advanced to May 2. This rule applies when the original date falls on a weekend or holiday, according to Social Security Administration (SSA) policies.
The maximum SSDI benefit in 2025, after the final cost-of-living increase, is $4,018. This can be supplemented, if eligible, with Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which has maximum payments of $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a couple filing jointly.
Far from the juicy $4,018 that disabled workers who earned high incomes for several years can apply for. Overall, more than 90% of beneficiaries receive a monthly payment closer to the average of $1,580.
How long can I receive SSDI?
You can receive SSDI benefits as long as you continue to meet the eligibility requirements, meaning you must be able to demonstrate that your disability prevents you from working substantially, and you have not yet reached full retirement age.
There is no fixed time limit – the program is designed to provide long-term ongoing support if your medical condition requires it. The SSA conducts periodic reviews, so be prepared to always be ready to prove, with documents in hand, that you are still eligible.
