Natalia
In 2025, the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program has undergone several vital updates spanning Cost‑of‑Living Adjustment (COLA), Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) thresholds, Trial Work Period (TWP) limits, work credits, and more.
These changes can directly influence your benefits, eligibility, and ability to work while receiving SSDI. Read on for everything you need to know.
Key 2025 SSDI Updates at a Glance
| Change | 2024 Value | 2025 Value & Details |
|---|---|---|
| COLA Increase | — | 2.5 % increase in SSDI monthly payments |
| Average SSDI Monthly Benefit | ~$1,542 | ~$1,580 (single disabled worker average) |
| Maximum SSDI Benefit | $3,822 | Up to $4,018 per month |
| SGA – Non-Blind | $1,550 | $1,620 per month |
| SGA – Blind | $2,590 | $2,700 per month |
| TWP Monthly Threshold | $1,110 | $1,160 per month |
| Work Credit Value | $1,730 per credit | $1,810 per credit (4 credits = $7,240/year) |
| Max Taxable Earnings | $168,600 | $176,100 in 2025 |
| SSI Federal Payment (Individual) | $943 | $967 per month |
| SSI Federal Payment (Couple) | $1,415 | $1,450 per month |
| SSI Student Earned-Income Exclusion | $2,290/mo, $9,230/yr | $2,350 monthly, $9,460 per year |
| SSA Field Office Service | Walk-in allowed | Appointment required, effective Jan 6, 2025 |
Detailed Breakdown
1. Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)
In January 2025, SSDI and related benefits rose by 2.5 %, boosting monthly income to about $1,580 for the average disabled worker, and setting the maximum benefit near $4,018.
2. SGA Limits
The SGA thresholds—the maximum earnings before SSDI is at risk—were lifted to $1,620 for non‑blind beneficiaries and $2,700 for blind individuals. Going above these may jeopardize benefits.
3. Trial Work Period (TWP)
Still generous, the TWP allows up to nine months with unlimited earnings without loss of benefits. In 2025, any month you earn over $1,160 counts as a TWP month.
4. Work Credits
To qualify for SSDI, you now earn one work credit per $1,810 of earnings. You can earn four credits per year—totaling $7,240 annually.
5. Other Notables
- The max taxable earnings for Social Security taxes rose to $176,100.
- SSI federal payments increased slightly to $967 (individual) and $1,450 (couple).
- The SSI student earned‑income exclusion was bumped up to $2,350 monthly and $9,460 yearly, helping students stay eligible.
- Starting January 6, 2025, SSA field offices now serve by appointment only, improving service flow.
If you rely on SSDI—or are planning to apply in 2025—these updates are crucial: higher COLA, raised SGA and TWP thresholds, increased work credit value, and streamlined SSA services. Stay informed to maximize benefits and avoid pitfalls.
FAQs
How much did SSDI benefits increase in 2025?
SSDI payments rose 2.5 % in 2025, boosting the average payment to approximately $1,580 per month.
What are the 2025 earnings limits before SSDI benefits are affected?
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620/month for non-blind and $2,700/month for blind individuals.
Do I still get to test working without losing benefits?
Yes. The Trial Work Period remains—any month you earn over $1,160 in 2025 counts as a TWP month, up to nine months in a 60-month window.