In April 2025, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments in the United States will be sent out on four different dates: April 3, 9, 16, and 23. These payments are a financial lifeline for many people who are unable to work due to a disability.
But not everyone gets paid on the same day. Your exact payment date depends mainly on two things: when you started receiving SSDI and your birth date. Let’s break down the schedule, who qualifies for what, and the latest news on in-person identity verification rules.
SSDI April 2025 Payment Schedule
Here is how the SSDI payment schedule is set for April 2025:
- April 3: For people who started receiving SSDI before May 1997, or those who receive both SSDI and SSI (Supplemental Security Income).
- April 9: For people born between the 1st and 10th of any month, and who started SSDI after May 1997.
- April 16: For those born between the 11th and 20th of any month.
- April 23: For those with birthdays between the 21st and 31st of any month.
Important note: If you receive both SSDI and SSI, your SSDI will always arrive on April 3, regardless of your birthday.
Maximum SSDI Benefit in April 2025
The maximum SSDI benefit in April 2025 is $4,018 per month, which is an increase from $3,822 in 2024. This higher amount is due to the annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).
However, most people will not receive the maximum. Only a small group of people—less than 1% of all recipients—get this full amount. Your benefit depends on how much you earned during your working years and how many work credits you’ve earned.
To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked long enough and paid into Social Security taxes. The number of credits you need depends on your age when your disability began.
In-Person Verification Rule: Does It Apply to SSDI?
Recently, the Social Security Administration (SSA) proposed a new rule that would require people to verify their identity in person for certain services. However, after criticism from many lawmakers and disability rights groups, the agency has decided to make changes.
Now, the rule will not apply to:
- People applying for SSDI
- Those applying for Medicare
- Individuals seeking basic financial aid, especially if they cannot access the SSA’s online system
This change will officially begin on April 14, 2025, which is two weeks later than originally planned.
Why Was There Pushback?
Many advocates raised concerns that this new rule would be unfair to people in rural areas, or those who have trouble moving around or accessing the internet. A group of over 40 Democratic lawmakers wrote a letter warning that forcing people to go to an SSA office was “unacceptable” for many vulnerable citizens.
They argued that requiring travel for something as simple as identity verification would create more barriers, especially for those who already struggle with health or mobility issues.
SSA’s Response to the Backlash
Lee Dudek, the acting director of the SSA, explained that the plan was meant to reduce payment fraud and modernise the system. However, after hearing the concerns, the SSA made the decision to exempt certain groups and promised to keep alternative methods for others who truly cannot travel.
He added, “We’re trying to find the right balance between security and access.”
But critics say there is no clear proof of large-scale fraud to support such a rule. Groups like the National Alliance of Retirees believe the rule was unnecessary and risked harming the very people it was meant to help.
In April 2025, SSDI payments will go out on April 3, 9, 16, or 23, depending on when you started receiving benefits and your date of birth. The maximum benefit for the month is $4,018, although most people will receive a lower amount based on their work history.
The SSA’s plan to require in-person identity checks has been softened after strong public response. If you’re receiving SSDI, this rule won’t apply to you, especially if you’re unable to access the digital system.
Stay alert to payment schedules and SSA announcements, and don’t hesitate to reach out to their office if you’re unsure about your benefits or any new rules.