SSDI is a Title II Social Security benefit funded by FICA payroll taxes. To qualify, you must have a documented medical condition expected to last at least 12 months or result in death, and a sufficient work history (typically 40 quarters of Social Security-covered employment, with 20 of those in the last 10 years).
SSDI payments follow the same schedule as Social Security retirement: 2nd, 3rd, or 4th Wednesday of each month, based on the beneficiary's date of birth (1-10, 11-20, or 21-31).
The average SSDI benefit in 2026 is approximately $1,580 per month. Medicare eligibility kicks in 24 months after SSDI benefits begin. SSDI converts automatically to retirement benefits at full retirement age, but the payment date does not change.