Free Tool
2026 SSDI Calculator
Estimate your monthly Social Security Disability check using SSA's official 2026 PIA formula and bend points.
This Social Security SSDI calculator uses the 2026 bend points ($1,226 and $7,391) and the official PIA formula to estimate your monthly benefit. Wondering how much will SSI checks be in 2026? The federal SSI max is $967/month for individuals — this tool focuses on SSDI (Title II).
Estimated monthly benefit
SSDI$1,991/mo
Estimated back pay
$37,829
SSDI estimate
$1,991/mo
SSI estimate
$967/mo
Medicare
Eligible immediately upon approval.
Medicaid
Likely eligible based on your asset level (state rules vary).
How we got this number
- • Estimated AIME (Average Indexed Monthly Earnings): $4,000.
- • 2025 PIA formula: 90% of first $1,226 + 32% up to $7,391 + 15% above.
National 2026 averages for reference: average SSDI $1,580/mo, maximum $4,018/mo.
Want a real number instead of an estimate?
Our attorneys pull your SSA earnings record and build the strongest possible case. No fee unless you win.
Get a free case evaluation →Estimate only. Your actual Primary Insurance Amount (PIA) depends on your top 35 years of indexed earnings. Pull your SSA Statement at ssa.gov/myaccount for the exact figure.
How the 2026 SSDI benefit is calculated
SSA indexes your lifetime earnings, averages your top 35 years, and converts that to a monthly figure (AIME). The PIA formula then applies progressive percentages at two "bend points" — 90% of the first $1,226, 32% up to $7,391, and 15% above.
Most workers fall in the middle bracket, which is why the national SSDI average sits near $1,580/month.
2026 SSDI & SSI benefit amounts at a glance
| 2026 figure | SSDI | SSI |
|---|---|---|
| Average monthly check | ~$1,580 | ~$700 |
| Maximum monthly check | $4,018 | $967 (individual) / $1,450 (couple) |
| First bend point | $1,226 | N/A |
| Second bend point | $7,391 | N/A |
| Annual COLA (2026) | 2.5% | 2.5% |
| SGA limit (work earnings cap) | $1,620/mo | $1,620/mo |
Why your estimate may differ from your actual check
SSA uses your exact indexed earnings record — this calculator approximates from the inputs you provide. Other factors that can move the number: Workers' Compensation offset, government pension offset, auxiliary family benefits, and whether you're filing as concurrent SSDI + SSI.
Estimate your back pay lump sum too →
SSDI vs SSI: which one are you eligible for? →
Last updated: June 21, 2026
Frequently asked questions
How much will SSDI pay per month in 2026?+
Average is about $1,580/month. Maximum at full retirement age is $4,018/month. Your specific amount depends on your lifetime indexed earnings.
What is the PIA formula?+
Primary Insurance Amount (PIA) = 90% of AIME up to $1,226 + 32% from $1,226–$7,391 + 15% above $7,391 (2026 bend points). Your AIME is the indexed average of your top 35 earning years, expressed monthly.
How accurate is this Social Security SSDI calculator?+
Within roughly ±15% for most workers. The exact figure depends on SSA's indexed earnings record, which only ssa.gov/myaccount can give you.
How much will SSI checks be in 2026?+
The 2026 federal SSI maximum is $967/month for individuals and $1,450 for couples. State supplements and countable income can change the final amount. This calculator focuses on SSDI; for SSI eligibility, start with a free case review.
What's the difference between SSDI and SSI monthly benefits?+
SSDI is based on your work history and lifetime earnings (capped at $4,018/month in 2026). SSI is a needs-based program with a flat federal max of $967/month for individuals. You can sometimes receive both — called 'concurrent benefits.'
When will I get my first SSDI check?+
After approval, SSDI benefits begin the month after your 5-month waiting period ends. Most claimants receive their first monthly payment within 1–2 months of the favorable decision, plus a separate back pay lump sum.
Does SSDI replace my full income?+
No — SSDI typically replaces about 40% of pre-disability earnings for average workers. Higher earners replace a smaller percentage because of the progressive PIA formula.
Will my SSDI amount go up each year?+
Yes. SSA applies an annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). The 2026 COLA was 2.5%. Your benefit increases automatically each January.
Can I work while on SSDI?+
Yes, but earnings above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit ($1,620/month in 2026, $2,700 for blind individuals) can end your benefits. SSA offers a Trial Work Period to test working without losing your check.
Does my spouse or child get benefits too?+
Yes — your spouse (if age 62+ or caring for your child under 16) and unmarried minor children can receive auxiliary benefits up to a family maximum of roughly 150–180% of your PIA.