At the law firm, we’ve helped hundreds of clients secure the Social Security Disability benefits they deserve. While the Social Security Administration (SSA) determines your initial benefit amount based on your earnings history and other factors, there are legitimate strategies to potentially increase your monthly payments.
1. Ensure Your Earnings Record Is Accurate
Your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits are calculated based on your average indexed monthly earnings (AIME) over your highest-earning 35 years. If you have fewer than 35 years of earnings, the SSA includes zero-income years, which can lower your AIME and, consequently, your benefit amount. Regularly reviewing your earnings record through your “my Social Security” account can help identify and correct any discrepancies. Even small corrections can lead to an increase in your monthly benefits.
2. Understand Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA)
The SSA applies annual COLAs to adjust benefits in line with inflation. For example, in 2024, beneficiaries saw a 3.2% increase in their benefits; in 2025, the COLA increase was 2.5%. Staying informed about these adjustments ensures you receive the correct benefit amount. The SSA typically announces COLA changes each October, with adjustments taking effect in January of the following year.
3. Explore Additional Benefits You May Qualify For
Depending on your circumstances, you might be eligible for additional benefits:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): If your income and assets are below certain thresholds, you may qualify for SSI in addition to SSDI. SSI provides monthly payments to individuals with limited income and resources.
- Spousal or Dependent Benefits: If you have a spouse or dependents, they might be eligible for benefits based on your work record. For instance, a spouse caring for a child under 16 or a disabled child may qualify for benefits.
Consulting with a experienced Social Security Disability attorney will make sure you correctly determine your eligibility for these additional benefits.
4. Consider the Impact of Work on Your Benefits
The SSA allows SSDI recipients to attempt a return to work through programs like the Trial Work Period (TWP) and the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE):
Trial Work Period (TWP): You can work for up to nine months (not necessarily consecutive) within a 60-month period without affecting your SSDI benefits, regardless of how much you earn during those months.
- Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE): After the TWP, you then enter a 36-month EPE during which you can receive benefits for any month your earnings fall below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level.
Participating in these programs, if your condition allows, provides a great opportunity for additional income while maintaining your SSDI benefits, potentially increasing your overall financial resources.
5. Utilize State Supplement Programs
Some states offer supplemental payments to individuals receiving SSI. These State Supplement Programs (SSPs) provide additional monthly income, depending on the state in which you live and your individual circumstances. In 2025, the federal SSI payment amounts are $967 for an eligible individual and $1,450 for an eligible couple. State supplements can add to these amounts. It’s essential that you check with your state’s social services agency to determine eligibility and application procedures.
6. Stay Informed About Legislative Changes
Legislation can impact Social Security benefits. For instance, the Social Security Fairness Act, signed into law in early 2025, repealed the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). This change increased benefits for many public sector workers, including teachers and police officers, who previously had their Social Security benefits reduced due to receiving pensions from non-Social Security-covered employment. Staying informed about such legislative changes can help you understand and potentially increase your benefits.
7. Contact an Experienced Disability Law Firm
Understanding the complexities of Social Security Disability benefits is challenging for anyone who does not work with the regulations every day. At the law firm, our experienced attorneys have a proven track record of successfully preparing disability claims and obtaining favorable results for our clients. We will assist you in understanding your benefits, identifying opportunities for increasing your payments, and ensuring you receive the full amount you’re entitled to.
If you’re seeking to maximize your Social Security Disability benefits, contact the law firm today to discuss the details of your case. We’re here to help you every step of the way.