SSDI Benefits & Payments: What to Expect

If you are approved for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), understanding how your benefits work is just as important as getting approved. At Wood & Carlton, P.C., with offices in Corinth, Tupelo, and Pontotoc, Mississippi, we are committed to helping clients not only secure their SSDI benefits but also fully understand their payments, timelines, and eligibility for additional programs like Medicare.

This detailed guide explains how SSDI payments are calculated, what average monthly benefits look like, how back pay works, and important information about Medicare and work incentives available to SSDI recipients.


How Are SSDI Payments Calculated?

One of the most common questions we hear is: “How much will I receive in SSDI benefits?”

SSDI payments are based on your work history, specifically the amount you have paid into Social Security through payroll taxes over the years. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a formula that factors in your:

  • Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME): This is the average of your earnings over your highest-earning years, adjusted for inflation.
  • Primary Insurance Amount (PIA): SSA applies a formula to your AIME to determine your PIA, which is the base figure for your SSDI benefit.


The formula is progressive, meaning it replaces a higher percentage of lower earnings and a smaller percentage of higher earnings. The exact amount you receive depends on your unique work record, but you can check your estimated benefit by creating a my Social Security account at www.ssa.gov.


Average Monthly SSDI Benefit Amounts

While SSDI benefits are personalized, the SSA releases annual data on average payments. As of 2024:

  • The average monthly SSDI benefit is approximately $1,540.
  • The maximum SSDI benefit is about $3,822 per month for individuals who earned at the highest taxable wage base.

Several factors can influence your monthly benefit, including:

  • Your work and earnings history
  • Whether you receive other government benefits (such as workers’ compensation)
  • Family benefits: spouses and children may be eligible to receive a portion of your benefit, which can increase the total household payment.

It’s important to note that SSDI benefits are not based on financial need (unlike Supplemental Security Income, or SSI) but strictly on your work record.


Understanding Back Pay: How Much and When You Receive It

SSDI claims can take months, sometimes years, to process. To ensure you aren’t penalized by these delays, the SSA offers back pay, which compensates you for the time you were disabled while waiting for your approval.

Key points to know:

1. Retroactive Payments:
You may be eligible for up to 12 months of retroactive payments before your application date if you can prove you were disabled before you applied.

2. Back Pay:
Your back pay covers the period between your application date and your approval date, minus the 5-month waiting period that starts from the SSA's established onset date of your disability.

3. Lump-Sum Payment:
Back pay is typically paid as a lump sum, deposited directly into your bank account after your claim is approved. This can take several weeks to process after your approval notice.

Example:
If you applied for SSDI in January 2023, and your disability onset date was determined to be June 2022, your payments would start after a five-month waiting period (November 2022). If you are approved in January 2024, your back pay would cover from November 2022 through January 2024.

Our team at Wood & Carlton, P.C. helps ensure your onset date and medical evidence are clearly established to maximize your back pay.


Medicare Eligibility After SSDI Approval

One of the significant benefits of SSDI is automatic eligibility for Medicare. However, Medicare coverage does not begin immediately after your SSDI approval.

Key facts:

  • Waiting Period: You become eligible for Medicare 24 months after the date your SSDI benefits begin.
  • Coverage: Once eligible, you will have access to:
  • Medicare Part A: Hospital insurance (free)
  • Medicare Part B: Medical insurance (premium-based)
  • Medicare Part D: Prescription drug coverage (optional)


For individuals with certain conditions—such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or end-stage renal disease (ESRD)—Medicare coverage may begin immediately without the 24-month waiting period.

Even if you have other insurance, Medicare can serve as a secondary payer, reducing out-of-pocket costs. Our attorneys can explain how SSDI and Medicare work together in your specific situation.


Can You Work While Receiving SSDI? Understanding Work Incentives and the Trial Work Period

Many SSDI recipients want to know whether they can attempt to return to work without losing their benefits. The answer is yes, thanks to the SSA’s work incentives, which are designed to encourage people to test their ability to work without risking their financial support.

The most important of these is the Trial Work Period (TWP):

Trial Work Period:

  • The TWP allows you to work for up to nine months within a rolling 60-month period while still receiving your full SSDI benefits, regardless of how much you earn.
  • For 2024, any month where you earn more than $1,110 counts toward your TWP.
  • Once you’ve used up your nine TWP months, your benefits may stop if you earn above Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) levels, which in 2024 is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals.

Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE):

  • After your TWP ends, you enter a 36-month Extended Period of Eligibility. During this time, you can continue receiving SSDI in any month where your earnings are below the SGA limit.

Expedited Reinstatement:

  • If your benefits stop because of work but you later become unable to work again within five years, you can request expedited reinstatement of your SSDI benefits without having to file a new application.


These incentives provide safety nets that make it easier to try re-entering the workforce without jeopardizing your financial stability. Our legal team can guide you through these programs to ensure you understand the risks and protections.


How Wood & Carlton, P.C. Supports Your SSDI Journey

Navigating SSDI benefits, payments, and related programs like Medicare can be complex. At Wood & Carlton, P.C., we provide comprehensive legal assistance at every stage:

  • Helping you understand your benefit calculations
  • Ensuring you receive full back pay
  • Clarifying Medicare eligibility and coverage options
  • Advising on trial work periods and work incentives
  • Handling disputes over benefit amounts or overpayments

With local offices in Corinth, Tupelo, and Pontotoc, Mississippi, we are here to provide personalized support and expert legal guidance to help you get the maximum benefits you deserve.


Contact Us to Learn More About SSDI Benefits

If you have questions about your SSDI benefits, payments, or Medicare eligibility, the team at Wood & Carlton, P.C. is ready to assist. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you secure your financial future with confidence.

Serving Corinth, Tupelo, Pontotoc, and surrounding areas throughout Mississippi and western Tennessee.

Social Security Disability Benefits for Children with Disabilities: What You Need to Know

August 7, 2025
Introduction: Navigating the Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits system for children with disabilities can be overwhelming for parents or guardians. However, understanding the available resources and processes is crucial for ensuring that children receive the support they need. In this comprehensive guide, Wood & Carlton, P.C., based in Corinth, Tupelo, and Pontotoc, Mississippi, offers valuable insights into Social Security Disability benefits for children with disabilities, empowering families to navigate this complex system effectively. Understanding Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for Children: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program designed to provide financial assistance to individuals with limited income and resources, including children with disabilities. SSI benefits can help cover the costs of food, clothing, and shelter for children with qualifying disabilities. Eligibility Criteria for SSI Benefits: To qualify for SSI benefits, children must meet the Social Security Administration's (SSA) definition of disability for children. This means having a physical or mental condition that significantly impairs their ability to function and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Additionally, families must meet certain income and resource limitations to qualify for SSI benefits. Applying for SSI Benefits for Children: The process of applying for SSI benefits for children involves submitting an application to the SSA, along with supporting documentation, such as medical records, school records, and statements from healthcare providers. The SSA will evaluate the child's medical condition and functional limitations to determine eligibility for benefits. Medical Listings and Compassionate Allowances: Children with certain severe medical conditions may qualify for expedited approval of their SSI claims through the SSA's Compassionate Allowances (CAL) program. CAL conditions are typically severe and debilitating, and the SSA fast-tracks the review process for these cases to ensure timely approval of benefits. Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs): Once approved for SSI benefits, children may undergo periodic Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) to assess their ongoing eligibility for benefits. CDRs help ensure that children continue to meet the SSA's criteria for disability and that benefits are appropriately administered. Legal Assistance from Wood & Carlton, P.C.: Navigating the process of applying for SSI benefits for children with disabilities can be complex and overwhelming for families. At Wood & Carlton, P.C., our compassionate attorneys understand the challenges families face and can provide invaluable legal assistance and advocacy throughout the application process.  Conclusion: Social Security Disability benefits can provide crucial financial support to children with disabilities and their families. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and available resources, families can effectively navigate the system and secure the benefits their children need. Contact Wood & Carlton, P.C., today for a consultation to discuss your child's eligibility for SSI benefits and learn how we can assist you in obtaining the support your family deserves.

Tips for Negotiating a Fair Settlement in Mississippi Workers' Compensation Cases

July 31, 2025
Introduction: Negotiating a fair settlement in a workers' compensation case can be a challenging task, especially for injured workers who may not be familiar with the legal process or their rights under Mississippi workers' compensation laws. At Wood & Carlton, P.C., with offices in Corinth, Tupelo, and Pontotoc, Mississippi, our experienced workers' comp attorneys understand the complexities of settlement negotiations and can provide invaluable guidance to injured workers seeking fair compensation for their injuries. In this blog post, we'll share essential tips for negotiating a fair settlement in Mississippi workers' compensation cases. Tip 1: Understand Your Rights and Benefits: Before entering into settlement negotiations, it's essential to understand your rights and benefits under Mississippi workers' compensation laws. Familiarize yourself with the types of benefits you may be entitled to, such as medical treatment, wage replacement, vocational rehabilitation, and permanent disability benefits. Tip 2: Gather Strong Evidence: Building a strong case requires gathering compelling evidence to support your claim for compensation. Collect medical records, treatment notes, witness statements, and any other documentation that demonstrates the nature and extent of your injuries, the impact on your ability to work, and the need for ongoing medical treatment or rehabilitation. Tip 3: Assess the Value of Your Claim: Before negotiating a settlement, assess the value of your claim based on factors such as the severity of your injuries, anticipated future medical expenses, lost wages, and any permanent disability or impairment. Consulting with an experienced workers' comp attorney can help you determine a fair and reasonable settlement amount. Tip 4: Consider Future Needs: When negotiating a settlement, consider your future needs, including ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation services, and potential long-term disability. Ensure that any settlement offer adequately addresses these future needs to provide financial security and stability moving forward. Tip 5: Don't Settle Too Quickly: Avoid the temptation to settle your workers' compensation claim too quickly, especially if you're still undergoing medical treatment or uncertain about the long-term impact of your injuries. Rushing into a settlement may result in accepting less compensation than you deserve. Tip 6: Seek Legal Representation: Navigating settlement negotiations can be complex, and insurance companies may try to offer lowball settlements to minimize their financial liability. Hiring an experienced workers' comp attorney from Wood & Carlton, P.C., can level the playing field and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the negotiation process. Tip 7: Negotiate from a Position of Strength: Approach settlement negotiations from a position of strength by presenting well-documented evidence of your injuries, treatment, and ongoing medical needs. Be prepared to advocate for yourself and assertively negotiate for a fair and just settlement that fully compensates you for your losses.  Conclusion: Negotiating a fair settlement in a workers' compensation case requires careful preparation, strategic planning, and skilled advocacy. With the guidance of experienced attorneys at Wood & Carlton, P.C., injured workers can navigate the negotiation process with confidence and secure the compensation they deserve for their injuries. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your workers' comp claim and learn more about how we can help you achieve a fair settlement.

Exploring the Appeals Council and Federal Court Levels for SSD Appeals

July 17, 2025
Introduction: Navigating the Social Security Disability (SSD) appeals process can be complex and daunting, especially for individuals who have had their initial SSD claims denied. Fortunately, claimants have the opportunity to seek further review of their cases at the Appeals Council and, if necessary, in federal court. At Wood & Carlton, P.C., with offices in Corinth, Tupelo, and Pontotoc, Mississippi, our experienced SSD attorneys are well-versed in the appeals process and can provide valuable guidance to claimants at every stage. In this blog post, we'll explore the Appeals Council and Federal Court levels for SSD appeals and offer insights to help claimants understand their options. The Appeals Council: The Appeals Council is the next level of review after an initial denial of SSD benefits. Claimants who receive an unfavorable decision from an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) can request a review by the Appeals Council. The Appeals Council examines the ALJ's decision for errors of law or procedure and may overturn, modify, or remand the decision for further review. Requesting Review by the Appeals Council: To request a review by the Appeals Council, claimants must submit a written appeal within 60 days of receiving the ALJ's decision. The appeal should include specific reasons why the claimant believes the decision is incorrect and may include additional evidence or legal arguments to support their case. The Appeals Council's Decision: Upon reviewing the case, the Appeals Council may take several actions, including affirming the ALJ's decision, issuing a new decision, or remanding the case for further review. If the Appeals Council denies the claimant's request for review, the ALJ's decision becomes final.  Federal Court Review: If a claimant disagrees with the Appeals Council's decision or if the Appeals Council denies their request for review, they may file a lawsuit in federal court seeking judicial review of their SSD claim. Federal court review provides claimants with the opportunity to present their case before a federal judge, who will evaluate whether the SSA's decision was supported by substantial evidence and free from legal errors. Legal Representation: Navigating the Appeals Council and federal court levels of SSD appeals requires experienced legal representation. At Wood & Carlton, P.C., our SSD attorneys have a deep understanding of the appeals process and can provide skilled advocacy to help claimants present their cases effectively at each stage of review. Conclusion: The Appeals Council and federal court levels offer claimants additional opportunities to appeal unfavorable decisions in SSD cases. With the guidance of skilled attorneys at Wood & Carlton, P.C., claimants can navigate the appeals process with confidence and increase their chances of obtaining the SSD benefits they deserve. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your SSD appeal and learn more about how we can assist you.
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