Disability benefits in Wisconsin are calculated and distributed in Wisconsin according to several factors including what type of disability benefit you’re getting, how many work credits you have if you are receiving SSDI, and the type of disability that you have.
The two different types of disability benefits, SSDI and SSI, pay different amounts and are calculated differently.
How Much Disability Can You Earn in Wisconsin
The maximum Federal SSDI payment in Wisconsin is $3,822 for 2024. The maximum Federal SSI payment in Wisconsin is $914 for 2024. But, Wisconsin is one of the few states that has a state supplement program that pays an additional benefit to anyone receiving SSI. If you’re receiving SSI in Wisconsin, you will receive an additional $43 per month from the state.
All Social Security benefit payments are paid once a month, so it’s important to budget that money to make it last for the entire month. SSI payments are sent out on the first of every month. If the first of the month falls on a weekend or holiday the payment will be made the previous business day. SSDI payments are sent out on the second, third, or fourth Wednesday of the month according to your birth date.
Average Monthly SSDI Payments in Wisconsin
If you’re receiving SSDI in Wisconsin your benefit payment amount is based on your average lifetime earnings before you became disabled. So, each person who receives SSDI in Wisconsin will receive a different amount of benefit money.
The average SSDI payment in Wisconsin in 2024 is $1,500 per month. However, the payment that you receive could be anywhere from $1,000 to the maximum benefit of $3,822. The national average SSDI payment is $1,500, so Wisconsin residents receive about the same as most other people who receive SSDI across the country.
SSI Payment Rates in Wisconsin
If you’re receiving SSI in Wisconsin, you will receive $914 per month as a base payment. If you’re part of a couple and both of you receive SSI you will receive a benefit of $1,371 in 2024. But remember, Wisconsin has a state supplement to SSI. So you will receive $43 a month from the state of Wisconsin in addition to your SSI payment, or $86 if you’re part of a couple.
Factors That Influence Disability Payment Amounts in Wisconsin
The amount of SSDI that you receive is based on your work history and earnings, as well as your income and resources. Both will be taken into consideration by the SSA.
Work History and Earnings (SSDI)
The amount of the benefit payment that you are awarded after your application for SSDI in Wisconsin is approved depends on how long you worked, how many work credits you have, and what your total earnings were in the years before you became disabled.
Income and Resources (SSI)
SSI payment amounts are calculated differently because SSI is a benefit for people who have always been disabled and unable to work. If you are receiving SSI you will receive a flat rate benefit, but you must meet the SSA’s income and asset limits.
You can earn up to $914 per month if you’re receiving SSI. If you earn more than that your benefit payment amount will be reduced. You can have up to $2,000 in assets as well, but your home and car usually don’t count toward the asset limit.
Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA) & Taxes in Wisconsin
Most years the SSA implements a cost-of-living-adjustment that raises the benefit amount for everyone who receives disability benefits. The COLA is supposed to offset the increased price of living expenses and food that happens every year.
Annual Increases in Benefit Amounts
The COLA increase each year can make it easier for people who are disabled to absorb higher food prices, energy prices, and higher costs of living. The COLA increase for 2025 is 2.5%. That means Wisconsin residents receiving SSI will get an additional $24 and people receiving SSDI will receive, on average, an additional $43.
Taxation of SSDI & SSI Benefits
SSI benefits are never taxed. SSDI benefits may be taxed in some states, but they are not taxed in Wisconsin.
How to Estimate Your Disability Benefits in Wisconsin
If you want to calculate your potential disability benefit payment in Wisconsin you can use DBH’s handy benefit calculator or talk with a disability attorney in Wisconsin.
Using DBH Benefits Calculator
To estimate your SSDI payment put your information into the DBH benefit calculator.
Consulting with a Disability Lawyer or Advocate
If you have questions about applying for disability benefits in Wisconsin, or you want to speak to a disability attorney in Wisconsin about your specific situation fill out a Free Case Evaluation now and you’ll be connected with a Wisconsin disability attorney for a free consultation.
