What to Know About SSDI Benefits in 2024 | Beacon Disability

What to Expect from SSDI Benefits in 2024

If you’re considering applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in 2024 and are wondering what to expect, this video is for you.

My name is Kaitlin Wildoner, and I’m an attorney who helps disabled clients obtain their disability benefits as quickly as possible so they can focus on getting better. Today, we’re going to talk about Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI benefits, in 2024.

SSDI Eligibility Requirements in 2024

Before you consider applying, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria, including:

Having a qualifying disability
Earning sufficient work credits through employment covered by Social Security

The number of work credits you need depends on your age at the time you become disabled. Though we typically say that you must have worked five of the last ten years and paid into the Social Security system during that time period.

1. Understanding the Application Process

You may also want to familiarize yourself with the application process, which can be done:

Online
Over the phone
In person at a local Social Security Office

2. How SSDI Benefits Are Calculated

SSDI benefits are calculated based on your average lifetime earnings. The higher your past earnings, the higher your SSDI benefit is likely to be.

3. Waiting Periods to Know About

It’s also important to note:

There is typically a five-month waiting period from the onset of your disability before you can start receiving any SSDI benefits.
There is a second waiting period for Medicare benefits. That wait period is often 24 months from the date of entitlement to SSDI benefits—so a total of 29 months from the date that you became disabled.

Key SSDI Updates for 2024

According to the Social Security Administration, in 2024:

SSDI benefits are going to increase by 3.2% from their 2023 amounts as a result of the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) cap has increased:
- For non-blind individuals: from $1,470/month to $1,550/month
- For blind individuals: from $2,460/month to $2,590/month
The amount of earnings that will trigger a Trial Work Period (TWP) for an SSDI beneficiary has also increased:
- In 2024, the amount is $1,110 per month, up from $1,050 per month in 2023

Final Thoughts

Eligibility criteria and program rules may be subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to contact the Social Security Administration directly or speak with a Social Security attorney regarding your specific situation.

Thanks so much for watching!
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