In the United States, many people who are unable to continue working for medical reasons depend on Social Security Disability to get by. This is a key source of financial support designed for those facing a serious health condition that prevents them from earning an income. For these beneficiaries, the monthly payment represents much more than money: it is peace of mind, security, and a way to maintain some stability.
Over time, this type of retirement has been adjusted to respond to changes in the economy and the labor market. However, some aspects remain unchanged, such as the medical criteria or the number of years of contributions required to apply. Meeting all the requirements is not always easy, but those who do know that check can make all the difference.
In May and June 2025, there will be no changes to the requirements for accessing disability help. What has been updated, and this is important, is the maximum amount of payments, which is increasing compared to last year. These adjustments are designed to ensure that beneficiaries do not lose purchasing power in the face of rising prices.
Changes to Social Security Disability in May and June 2025
The main change in May and June does not relate to the requirements for accessing the program, but rather to the increase in the maximum amount that can be received each month. This update is due to the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which in 2025 has been 2.5%.
In May and June of last year, the highest check for Social Security Disability (SSDI) beneficiaries was $3,822 per month. Now, that amount has increased to $4,018 per month, representing an increase of almost $200. This change primarily benefits those who contributed for many years and earned good wages before leaving the workforce for medical reasons.
However, it is important to clarify that not everyone who receives SSDI will see that amount. The final amount paid by Social Security depends on many factors: how much you contributed, for how many years, and what your average income was. The new maximum simply indicates the ceiling that can be reached under the best conditions.
Social Security disability retirement requirements in 2025
To apply for disability retirement in 2025, you must meet two types of conditions: some related to health and others to work history. The first step is to prove that the disability prevents you from working and that it will last for at least one full year or that it could be a terminal condition.
In addition, Social Security only approves these payments if the applicant has worked long enough and contributed to the system. Normally, 40 work credits are required, although if the person is young, the requirement may be lower. Of those 40 credits, at least 20 must have been earned in the last 10 years.
Another important point has to do with income. To continue getting the payment, you cannot exceed a monthly limit. In 2025, that cap is $1,550 per month if the person is not blind, and $2,590 if they have a visual disability. Exceeding that amount may lead to a review of the case or even suspension of the benefit.
This program is not designed to supplement income or cover temporary situations. It is a safety net for those who truly cannot return to work. And although it is not easy to obtain, for many people it marks the beginning of a new phase of stability.