Can I Increase My Social Security Disability Payments?

The short answer is no, once your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments are determined and you start receiving them, the amounts generally remain fixed. This article will explore why this is the case and offer guidance on understanding the impact of various factors on your SSDI or SSI benefits.

Understanding SSDI and SSI

SSDI is a federal benefits program designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who are disabled and have worked and paid into the system. The amount of your SSDI benefit is typically based on your average lifetime earnings over the last 35 working years, adjusted for inflation.

On the other hand, SSI benefits are meant to assist individuals with limited income and resources. Unlike SSDI, SSI benefits can vary based on various factors such as changes in household income, resources, and living arrangements.

Why Can't I Increase My SSDI or SSI Payments?

SSDI payments are intended to be a fixed amount, reflecting your past earnings and your medical condition as it was when you applied for benefits. Once you start receiving your SSDI payments, the amount generally does not change unless your medical condition significantly improves or changes.

Here are some reasons why your SSDI payments are not subject to change:

Your medical or mental condition does not worsen in a way that would justify an increase in benefits. The money is not increasing because you need more to pay your bills, as the benefit amount is set based on your past earnings. Benefit amounts do not automatically increase with age, as your past earnings already reflect your earning capacity and thus your potential need. You may receive small Cost of Living Adjustments (COLAs) annually to help offset inflation, but these are not frequent and typically minimal.

SSDI and SSI Benefits Overview

Once your SSDI or SSI benefit amount is determined, it is generally not subject to change unless you or a family member's circumstances change significantly. For example:

SSI: SSI benefits can be adjusted based on changes in household income, resources, and living arrangements. Your local Social Security office will help you report these changes to update your benefit amount. SSDI: SSDI payments are primarily determined by your past earnings and the severity of your disability as it was when you applied. The benefit amount is not influenced by your current financial needs or changed medical status unless your condition substantially improves.

Potential for Increasing SSDI Benefits

While you cannot genuinely increase your SSDI benefit, there are a few scenarios where you might see an increase:

Increased Earnings Before Disability:** If you earned more before you became disabled and that income is recognized as a top-35 earning year, your SSDI benefit amount may increase over time as the system recalculates your average lifetime earnings. However, this is a long-term process and you would need to have worked in higher-paying jobs. Qualifying Family Members:** If you have dependent children or family members under 18 who are still in elementary or secondary school, they may qualify for dependent benefits. These benefits are separate from your personal SSDI payments but can provide some additional financial support.

Alternative Income Sources

Considering your financial needs, you might also explore alternative income sources such as:

Part-time employment that accommodates disabilities and allows for flexibility in working hours and income generation. Other government assistance programs, such as food stamps or housing assistance, which can supplement your income.

Ultimately, while you cannot significantly increase your SSDI payments, there are steps you can take to manage your financial situation more effectively and explore other sources of income or assistance.