
If you’re receiving Social Security Disability (SSDI) payments, you may be wondering if you can increase the amount you receive each month. The process can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it’s possible. As experienced disability lawyers, we’ve helped many people maximize their SSD benefits, and we’re here to help you too. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—step by step.
Ways to Increase Your Social Security Disability Payments
Certain events in your life may allow you to increase your SSD payments. Here are some of the most common situations:
1. Death of a Spouse or Adult Child
If your spouse or an adult child has passed away, you might qualify for survivor benefits. These benefits could increase your monthly payments.For example, you could qualify if your child had enough work credits to be eligible for SSDI and provided at least half of your income support.
2. Dependent Children
If you have children under 18 (or disabled adult children you are caring for), they may be eligible for auxiliary benefits through your SSD claim. This can increase your overall family benefit amount.
3. Military Service
If you served in the military, you may qualify for additional benefits through Veterans Affairs (VA). Sometimes, SSD and VA benefits can work together to provide more financial support.
4. Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA)
Each year, Social Security applies a COLA to account for inflation. Check your payment amounts annually to ensure you’re receiving the adjusted amount. Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for more than 72.5 million Americans increased 2.5 percent in 2025.
The 2.5 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) began with benefits payable to nearly 68 million Social Security beneficiaries in January 2025. Increased payments to nearly 7.5 million SSI recipients began on December 31, 2024. (Note: some people receive both Social Security and SSI benefits)
5. Worsening Disability
If your medical condition has worsened, you may qualify for higher payments, particularly if you received a partially favorable decision in past. You will need to provide updated medical records to the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Before you apply for increased benefits, make sure you have all the necessary documents ready. This will make the process smoother and faster.
Checklist of Required Documents:
- Medical Records: Updated doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment plans.
- Household Changes: Death certificates, marriage certificates, or adoption records if applicable.
- Military Records: DD-214 or other proof of service.
- Financial Records: Recent tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements.
- Personal Identification: Social Security card, ID, or driver’s license.
Having these documents organized and ready will help avoid delays in your application.
How to Apply for Increased SSDI Payments
When you’re ready to request an increase in your SSD payments, you can apply online, by phone, or in person. Here’s how:
Online Application:
- Visit the Social Security Administration’s website.
- Log in to your account or create one if you haven’t already.
- Follow the steps to report changes or submit a request for reconsideration.
Phone Application:
- Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
- Be prepared to provide your Social Security number, updated information, and supporting documents.
In-Person Application:
- Schedule an appointment at your local Social Security office.
- Bring all your documents and explain why you believe you’re eligible for increased payments.
Pro Tips:
- Double-Check Your Application: Make sure all information is accurate before you submit it.
- Stay Organized: Keep copies of everything you send and note any communication with the SSA, including dates and names of representatives.
What Happens After You Apply?
Once you’ve submitted your application, here’s what you can expect:
- Review Process
- The SSA will review your application and the supporting documents. This can take several weeks to months.
- Follow-Up Requests
- You may receive a letter asking for additional information. Respond promptly to avoid delays.
- Decision Notification
- You’ll receive a letter with the SSA’s decision. If approved, the letter will include details about your new payment amount and when it will start.
What to Do if You’re Denied
It’s not uncommon for applications for increased benefits to be denied. Don’t be discouraged. There are steps you can take to appeal the decision.
Appeal Stages:
- Reconsideration
- Submit additional evidence or correct errors in your original application.
- Hearing
- Request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). You’ll have the chance to present your case in person.
- Appeals Council Review
- If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review by the Social Security Appeals Council.
- Federal Court
- As a last resort, you can file a lawsuit in federal court.
Real-Life Success Story
One of our clients, a single mother with two children, was receiving SSD payments based on her work history. When her ex-husband passed away, she didn’t realize her children could qualify for survivor benefits. We helped her apply for these auxiliary benefits, which increased her monthly payments by over $1,000. This extra income allowed her to cover essential expenses and provide a better life for her family. Disclaimer: Because the success of any legal matter depends on the unique circumstances of each case, we cannot guarantee results for future clients based on successes we have achieved in past legal matters.
In Closing, Take the Next Step
Increasing your Social Security Disability payments can feel like a complicated process, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’ve experienced a life change or simply want to ensure you’re receiving everything you’re entitled to, we’re here to help.
What You Can Do Next:
- Gather Your Documents: Start by collecting the necessary paperwork.
- Contact Us: Call our office to request a free consultation on your claim. We’ll evaluate your situation and guide you through the next steps
At Collins Price, we’ve helped countless individuals just like you maximize their SSD payments. Let us help you too. Call us today to get started!