Millions of Americans receiving Social Security Disability benefits will get their next monthly payment on April 9, 2025, and it will include the latest Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) increase of 2.5%. This raise, implemented in January 2025, was designed to help beneficiaries keep up with inflation and the rising cost of everyday necessities.
For individuals with disabilities who rely on Social Security as a key source of income, this adjustment provides critical financial support amid ongoing economic challenges. The payment will be deposited automatically by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and follows the standard monthly schedule—no additional action is needed from recipients.
Who Will Receive the April 9 Disability Payment?
The payment scheduled for Wednesday, April 9, will go to disability beneficiaries who were born between the 1st and 10th of any month. This group is always the first to receive their payment each month, based on SSA’s birthdate-based payment schedule.
In 2025, the maximum Social Security Disability benefit can reach up to $4,018 per month, depending on the beneficiary’s prior earnings and work history. Actual amounts vary by case, but all eligible recipients in this group will receive the COLA increase as part of their April deposit.
SSA has also confirmed the updated Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) thresholds for 2025, which determine how much a person can earn while still qualifying for disability benefits:
- Persons with disabilities who are not blind: they can earn up to $1,620 per month under the substantial gainful activity (SGA) criteria.
- Persons with blindness: the monthly limit allowed is $2,700.
- In a trial work period (TWP): an income of up to $1,160 per month is allowed.
These income thresholds play a key role in determining ongoing eligibility and must be carefully monitored by beneficiaries who attempt to return to work while receiving disability payments.
Additional Social Security Updates in 2025
Beyond the COLA increase, several other adjustments are in effect for 2025. One of the most notable is the rise in the maximum taxable earnings, which now sits at $176,100. This change affects working individuals and is part of a broader federal effort to modernize the Social Security system and preserve its long-term financial stability.
For disability recipients, staying informed about these changes is essential, as policy shifts can impact payment amounts, eligibility rules, and long-term financial planning.