How Are My SSD Back Due Benefits Calculated?

If you have applied for Social Security Disability benefits, you may be wondering how your Social Security disability benefits are calculated if and when your claim gets approved.

The way your Social Security disability benefits are calculated depends on whether you were found disabled under Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.

SSDI Benefit Calculation

For SSDI benefits, the monthly benefit amount is based on your average earnings before you became disabled. SSDI benefits are also subject to a five-month waiting period, and therefore do not begin to accrue until your sixth month of disability.

SSI Benefit Calculation

For SSI benefits, on the other hand, your monthly maximum benefit is based on the federal maximum and any state supplementation. SSI benefits might decrease if you (or another member of your household) have other income.

Currently, the federal SSI maximum is $841 a month. SSI benefits do not have the five-month waiting period and can start to accrue in the month after you submit your application. It’s also important to note that because SSI benefits are variable depending on any other income that you might receive, including in kind income (such as someone else providing you with housing or food), SSI benefit amounts can vary from month to month.

Social Security Disability Lawyer

If you’re disabled and unable to work, click the scheduling link here or give us a call directly to see what I can do to help you.