When multiple family members receive benefits on a single worker’s SSDI record, the Social Security Administration applies a family maximum benefit (FMB) that limits the total amount payable. Understanding how this works in 2025 helps families plan their finances realistically.
The family maximum benefit generally ranges from 150% to 180% of the disabled worker’s primary insurance amount (PIA), with the exact percentage determined by a formula in the Social Security Act. This cap applies to the total benefits payable to:
- The disabled worker
- Spouse (if caring for a child under 16 or disabled)
- Children under 18 (or up to 19 if still in high school)
- Adult disabled children whose disability began before age 22
The disabled worker’s personal benefit is always paid in full. If the combined total of the worker’s benefit and all family benefits exceeds the maximum, each dependent’s benefit is proportionally reduced until the total equals the family maximum.
For example, if a disabled worker receives $1,500 monthly and has two children each eligible for $750 (50% of the worker’s benefit), the combined total would be $3,000. If the family maximum is $2,250 (150% of the worker’s benefit), each child’s benefit would be reduced from $750 to $375, bringing the family total to $2,250.
Several important aspects of the family maximum to understand in 2025:
- Divorce and remarriage impacts: When multiple families draw from one worker’s record (such as after divorce and remarriage), each family has its own maximum benefit calculation.
- Benefit increases: Cost-of-living adjustments increase both the worker’s benefit and the family maximum proportionally.
- Effect of other income: If some family members have earnings that reduce their individual benefits due to work activity, the reduction is not redistributed to other beneficiaries.
- Child-only situations: If the worker isn’t receiving benefits (such as if still working) but children qualify (such as in cases of adult disabled children), different maximum benefit rules apply.
Strategies to consider when facing family maximum reductions:
- If a spouse works, determining whether claiming spousal benefits or their own retirement benefit is more advantageous
- Timing benefit applications strategically if some family members might soon age out of eligibility
- Understanding how returning to work affects the overall family benefit structure
- Exploring alternative benefit programs for family members, such as SSI if they have limited income and resources
The family maximum doesn’t apply to survivors’ benefits in the same way, so planning should account for potential changes if the disabled worker passes away.
