Social Security Calculator for Disability
Things That Could Impact Your Estimate for
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
1. Your average monthly wage has changed dramatically.
2. There are years you did not work
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
1. The monthly earned income of you or your spouse.
2. The unearned monthly income of you or your spouse.
3. This calculator does not take into account SSI received by a child in your household.
NOTE: This is only an estimate. Your actual benefit may vary.
Understanding Your Social Security Disability Payment
How Much Will Your Monthly Benefits Be?
At DisabilityAlabama, we understand that financial stability is a key concern for our clients. The amount you'll receive through disability benefits depends on several factors, including which program you qualify for and your unique circumstances.
SSDI Benefits: Based on Your Work History
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Calculated from your lifetime average earnings covered by Social Security
- Based on your "covered earnings" before your disability began
- Not affected by household income or other financial resources
- Currently averages $1,483 per month (as of 2025)
- Maximum possible benefit: $4,018 per month
- Eligibility typically requires working 5 out of the last 10 years
- Benefits may be available to eligible family members
SSI Benefits: Need-Based Support
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Fixed maximum federal benefit rate: $967 per month for individuals (2025)
- $1,450 per month for eligible couples
- Reduced by countable income from various sources
- Requires both limited income and limited resources ($2,000 individual/$3,000 couple)
- Some states provide supplemental payments above the federal amount
- No work history requirement
Back Pay: Compensation for Waiting
When your claim is approved, you may receive:
SSDI Back Pay: Benefits from the date of your established disability onset (minus 5-month waiting period) through your approval date
SSI Back Pay: Benefits from your application date through approval date
- May be paid in installments if amount exceeds certain thresholds
- First installment capped at $2,829 (three times the monthly maximum)
- Subsequent installments paid at 6-month intervals
Maximizing Your Benefits: Our Approach
Our experienced disability attorneys work to:
- Establish the earliest possible onset date to maximize back pay
- Identify all potential programs you qualify for
- Ensure all eligible family members receive auxiliary benefits
- Address complex income and resource issues affecting SSI payments
- Optimize payment timing and installment structures
Get Your Personalized Benefit Estimate
While general guidelines are helpful, your specific benefit amount depends on your unique situation. Our free benefits calculator tool provides a personalized estimate based on your work history and circumstances.