Understanding SSDI Benefit Amounts in Arkansas

SSDI benefits are calculated using your average indexed monthly earnings (AIME), which represents your lifetime average income from work covered by Social Security. The Social Security Administration (SSA) then uses a formula to determine your Primary Insurance Amount (PIA) — the amount you'll receive each month if you're approved for benefits.

In Arkansas, the average SSDI payment typically ranges from $1,040 to $1,280 per month. However, your actual payment may be more or less depending on your specific earnings record.

The maximum monthly SSDI benefit for 2025 is just over $3,800, but this higher amount applies to individuals with high lifetime earnings. Most applicants fall well below that range.

Factors That Affect Your SSDI Benefit Amount

Several key factors influence the size of your monthly SSDI check:

• Work History: The longer and more consistently you’ve worked and paid into Social Security, the higher your benefit is likely to be.
• Earnings Record: Your income levels over your working years are used to calculate your benefit.
• Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA): Each year, your benefit may increase slightly based on inflation adjustments set by the SSA.
• Other Benefits: Receiving other government benefits like workers’ compensation or public disability benefits could reduce your SSDI amount.

What to Expect When Receiving SSDI in Arkansas

When you start receiving SSDI benefits in Arkansas, your monthly payment will be directly deposited into your bank account or sent as a paper check. It’s important to note that Arkansas does not offer a state supplement to SSDI, but you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if you have limited income and resources.

Your SSDI benefit may also come with Medicare eligibility — typically starting 24 months after you become eligible for SSDI.