SSDI Changes for 2025: New Disability Thresholds After COLA Increase

According to Vibes.okdiario, Following the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) announcement for Social Security benefits, there’s crucial news for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) recipients who may be considering returning to work. It’s essential for disability recipients to understand the new thresholds for Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).

COLA Increase for SSDI Recipients

All SSDI recipients will receive a 2.5% increase in their benefits, effective January 2025. As a result, the average SSDI check will rise to approximately $1,580, up from $1,542. To find your exact benefit amount, make sure to check your my Social Security account, ensuring it does not exceed the threshold with the increase.

New SSDI & SGA Thresholds for 2025

For those receiving SSDI, understanding the new SGA thresholds is critical. Here’s a breakdown of the changes:

Also read: Cash Back for Concert-Goers: $3.25M Data Breach Settlement Offers Up to $7,200

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Thresholds

• For Non-Blind Recipients:
  • 2024: $1,550/month
  • 2025: $1,620/month (an increase of $70)
• For Blind Recipients:
  • 2024: $2,590/month
  • 2025: $2,700/month (an increase of $110)
• Trial Work Period (TWP):
  • 2024: $1,110/month
  • 2025: $1,160/month

Understanding Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) refers to a specific level of earnings established by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that determines an individual’s eligibility for disability benefits. To qualify for SSDI, recipients must not engage in SGA, meaning that if their earnings exceed the SGA limits, they cannot receive disability benefits.

Key Points on SGA for SSDI Recipients

• Blind individuals have a higher SGA amount compared to non-blind recipients.
• The SGA thresholds are adjusted annually based on changes in the national average wage index.
• It’s crucial to note that the SGA for the blind applies specifically to Social Security benefits and not to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. In contrast, the SGA for non-blind disabled individuals applies to both Social Security and SSI benefits.

Conclusion

With these new thresholds and COLA adjustments, SSDI recipients should stay informed about their benefit amounts and work eligibility. Understanding the implications of Substantial Gainful Activity is vital for planning a potential return to the workforce while ensuring continued access to essential disability benefits.