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Frequently asked questions about benefits

Updated over a week ago

What are my benefits based on?

Your monthly benefit amount is based on your work history and past earnings. If you’ve worked and paid into Social Security, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). The average monthly payment is about $1,500. If you haven’t worked much—or at all—you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). This need-based program provides an average monthly payment of about $600.

How long will my benefits last?

Disability benefits continue for so long as your health prevents you from working. If you recover and return to work, your disability benefits will stop. For people who never return to work, disability benefits continue until they hit retirement age. At that point, disability benefits convert to Social Security retirement benefits, usually at the same monthly amount.

Are benefits taxable?

For many people, SSDI benefits aren’t taxable. However, part of your benefits may be taxed if you have other sources of income or receive a higher benefit amount. SSI benefits are never taxed.

What if I already took early retirement?

You can still apply for disability, even if you've already taken early retirement benefits. (In this case, the amount you would receive for SSDI is the difference between your full retirement benefits and the amount you receive for early retirement benefits.) If you haven't yet claimed early retirement benefits but are thinking of doing so, it's best to talk to a lawyer, since the order in which you apply could impact the benefits you'd receive.

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