More than 8 million Americans receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. However, for many recipients, the money isn’t nearly enough to cover their basic living expenses.

**The Financial Struggle of SSDI Recipients**

SSDI benefits are available to disabled individuals and certain family members, provided the disabled person worked long enough and recently enough to pay Social Security taxes on their earnings. The amount received depends on the length of work and earnings during that time, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Despite this, getting by on SSDI benefits alone is a challenge. SSA data from August 2025 shows that the average disability insurance benefit is only $1,445.72 per month. Other sources report even lower figures. For example, a recent survey of 426 SSDI recipients conducted by the public interest law firm Atticus found the average payment among respondents was $1,243 a month—with nearly two-thirds (63%) saying the money doesn’t even cover basic living expenses.

Living on SSDI is described as a “daily balancing act” involving money, health, stability, and dignity. Highlights from the Atticus survey include:

– 38% of SSDI recipients report skipping meals to stay afloat.
– 23% have had to ration medication.
– 29% have considered going back to work because SSDI benefits aren’t enough.
– 38% say they wouldn’t last a month without benefits.

**Could SSDI Benefits Be at Risk?**

The financial difficulties facing SSDI recipients could worsen if benefits are cut. Although President Donald Trump has repeatedly said he “won’t touch” Social Security as part of any government downsizing, some groups and individuals warn that cuts might still be on the table.

A recent report from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP) reveals that the Trump administration is reportedly “preparing to propose a rule” to cut Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, potentially stripping eligibility from nearly 400,000 beneficiaries. These cuts could reduce benefits by “hundreds of dollars per month,” the CBPP noted.

While SSI and SSDI are different programs, both administered by the Social Security Administration and both providing benefits to people with disabilities, there is concern that cuts to SSI could pave the way for reductions to other programs, including SSDI.

Further compounding fears, the Center for American Progress (CAP) warned earlier this year about steps taken by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which announced plans to slash roughly 7,000 SSA jobs and close six of the agency’s 10 regional offices. These moves come at a time when the SSA is already operating with staffing levels near a 25-year low. Former Social Security Commissioner Martin O’Malley expressed concern that such cuts could lead to a “system collapse and an interruption of benefits.”

Additionally, the government shutdown that began on October 1 could weaken the SSA further. While Social Security beneficiaries will continue receiving their monthly checks during the shutdown, some SSA services may be disrupted, according to CBS News.

**Stay Informed**

As debates continue about the future of Social Security programs, SSDI recipients and advocates remain vigilant. The potential for benefit cuts could deepen the financial hardships already faced by millions.

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*Editor’s note:* GOBankingRates is nonpartisan and strives to cover all aspects of the economy objectively, providing balanced reports on politically focused finance stories. For more coverage on this topic, visit GOBankingRates.com.

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https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/social-security-disability-checks-dont-cover-living-costs-most-recipients-will-cuts-put