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The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers the two disability programs that provide monthly benefits to disabled individuals. Many factors are used to determine how much a person can receive in Social Security disability benefits. Each program has the maximum benefits that it pays to disabled Americans.
Working with a Texas disability attorney can make the process of applying for disability benefits less stressful. Our lawyer understands the requirements for receiving disability benefits and how to maximize your chance of receiving the highest amount available for monthly Social Security disability benefits.
Maximum Social Security Benefits for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI disability benefits are paid to low-income disabled individuals who did not earn enough work credits to qualify for SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) benefits. Individuals must meet income and asset requirements to qualify for SSI disability benefits.
The maximum SSI benefit for an individual is $794 per month for 2021. The maximum monthly benefit for an individual with an eligible spouse is $1,191 per month. Generally, the maximum benefits increase slightly each year to reflect increases in the cost of living.
Individuals can earn income and still receive SSI disability benefits. However, your monthly benefits will be lower if you earn or receive income from working or another source. Other factors impact the amount of SSI benefits you might receive, such as your monthly housing and utility expenses.
Maximum Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Monthly Benefits
The maximum amount you can receive in SSDI benefits is $3,148 per month. Eligible dependents may receive benefits based on your benefit amount.
SSDI benefits are calculated differently than SSI benefits. The amount you receive each month is based on your average covered earnings before you became disabled. Covered earnings are wages that were subject to FICA or Social Security taxes. The severity of your disability does not impact the amount of disability benefits you receive each month.
Unlike SSI benefits, covered earnings are the primary factor that determines how much money you receive each month for SSDI benefits. Your assets and other resources are not factors in calculating SSDI monthly benefits.
However, receiving disability benefits from a private insurance policy or government disability program can reduce the amount of SSDI benefits you receive each month. Receiving workers’ compensation benefits or pension from work not covered by Social Security can also reduce your SSDI payments.
Receiving Back Pay for Social Security Disability Benefits
Once the SSA approves your application for SSI or SSDI benefits, you may receive retroactive disability payments or “back pay.” The amount of back pay you could receive depends on your disability onset date and when you applied for Social Security disability benefits.
Contact Our Texas Disability Attorney for More Information
When you apply for SSDI or SSI benefits, your goal is to receive the maximum benefits available. Receiving the maximum benefit amount helps ensure that you have sufficient income each month to pay for your needs.
Contact our office today to speak with a Texas disability attorney who can answer your questions about disability benefits and help you fight for maximum benefits.