WHAT'S THE MAXIMUM SSDI DISABILITY BENEFIT?

In 2013 the maximum monthly benefit for Social Security disability is $2,533.  The maximum federal benefit for Supplemental Security Income is $710 per month. (Some states add a small state benefit to the federal amount).  If a claimant is receiving at least $710 per month from SSDI, they will not qualify for additional SSI benefits.

The amount of the SSDI monthly payment is determined by how much you have worked and the amount of your wages over the last several years.  Persons who have worked recently and have earned higher wages will receive a larger monthly benefit.  In order to be covered by SSDI, however, an individual must have the required minimum "quarters of coverage."  

For disability coverage under Social Security, a worker generally needs to have 20 quarters of coverage during the last 10 years and be fully insured.  In 2013, earnings of $1,160 in a quarter satisfy the requirement for one quarter of coverage.  For past years, the amount of earnings required to accumulate one QC was lower (for example, in 2012 it was $1,130).

For individuals under the age of 31, the rules are different concerning the number of quarters needed for disability insurance.  The best bet to find out if you have enough work to be covered for SSDI (also called "Title 2 benefits") is to call your Social Security office.

THE FORSYTHE FIRM

 
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