If I am approved for Social Security benefits, how much will I receive?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: If I am approved for Social Security benefits, how much will I receive?

Answering your question.

If you’re approved for Social Security Disability benefits, the amount of money you get each month depends mostly on how much you worked and paid into Social Security during your working years. The government keeps a record of your earnings and uses that to figure out your monthly benefit.

Let’s break it down step by step:

What Type of Disability Are You Getting?

There are two main kinds of Social Security disability benefits:

1. SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance):

• For people who worked and paid Social Security taxes.
• The monthly amount is based on your work history and earnings.
• The more you earned over the years, the higher your benefit will be.

2. SSI (Supplemental Security Income):

• For people with little or no work history and low income/resources.
• Has a maximum federal amount (in 2025, it’s about $943/month for individuals).
• It’s based on need, not your past earnings.

You may qualify for one or both, depending on your situation.

How Much Will I Get from SSDI?

If you qualify for SSDI, most people get between $800 and $2,200 per month.

• In 2025, the average SSDI check is around $1,537 per month.
• If you had high earnings over many years, you could get more.
• If your earnings were low or you worked less, your check might be smaller.
  

You can check your estimated amount on your Social Security statement online, or ask a lawyer to help you find out.

How Much Will I Get from SSI?

If you only qualify for SSI, the most you can get in 2025 is:

• $943/month if you’re single
• $1,415/month if you’re married (both receiving SSI)

BUT — that amount may be reduced if:

• You get free housing or help with food
• You live with family or someone who pays your bills
• You get other income (like workers’ comp, a pension, or part-time job income)

Some states also add extra money to the federal SSI check — it’s called a state supplement.

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Do I Get Medicare or Medicaid Too?

Yes!

• If you get SSDI, you qualify for Medicare after 24 months of disability payments.
• If you get SSI, you usually qualify for Medicaid right away.

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Summary (Simple Terms):

Benefit Type	Monthly Amount (2025)	Based On	Health Coverage
SSDI	~$800 to $2,200+	Your past earnings	Medicare (after 2 years)
SSI	Up to $943 (individual)	Low income/resources	Medicaid (right away)

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Need Help?

If you’re unsure what type of benefit you qualify for or how much you could receive, a Social Security Disability attorney can help you figure that out — and the best part is, you don’t pay anything unless you win your case.