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Arkansas • Mental Health
If you have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Arkansas, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI. These programs help cover lost income and provide access to Medicaid. The process starts with a medical diagnosis and proof that your condition prevents you from working for at least 12 months.
To qualify for disability benefits in Arkansas, you must have a medical condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers two main programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. You need enough work credits, usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require proof that your condition is severe enough to prevent Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). In 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered SGA and may disqualify you[1][2][3][4].
In Arkansas, qualifying for disability benefits follows federal rules, but state agencies help with Medicaid and other support. If you get SSI, you may also qualify for full Medicaid coverage in Arkansas. The state does not have a separate disability program, but local agencies can help with applications and provide resources. Workers with disabilities in Arkansas can keep Medicaid if they work, as long as they meet income limits. Arkansas also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help people with OCD live independently[5][7].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Arkansas residents can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how they work[internal_link: ABLE Accounts].
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620/month ($2,700 if blind). For SSI, your income and resources must be below certain limits. The maximum SSI payment is $967/month for an individual and $1,450/month for a couple[1][2][3][4].
If your income or situation changes, you must report it to SSA. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Learn how to avoid overpayments and report changes[internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Arkansas legal aid groups and state agencies can help with disability applications and appeals. Contact your local Social Security office or the Arkansas Department of Human Services for support.
Yes, if your OCD is severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. You need a doctor's diagnosis and proof that your condition meets SSA rules[1][2][3][4].
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620/month ($2,700 if blind). If you earn more than this, you may not qualify for disability benefits[1][2][3][4].
For SSDI, yes. You need enough work credits. For SSI, no. SSI is based on income and resources, not work history[1][2][3][4].
The process can take several months. SSA reviews your case, may ask for more info, and sometimes requires a medical exam. Appeals can take longer[1][2][3][4].
You can work, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. Arkansas also has work incentives that let you test your ability to work without losing benefits[internal_link: SSI & SSDI Work Incentives].
You need a diagnosis from a doctor and medical records showing how OCD affects your daily life and ability to work. SSA may ask for more details or a medical exam[1][2][3][4].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
If you get SSI, you usually qualify for full Medicaid coverage in Arkansas. This covers therapy, medications, and other services for OCD[7].
Yes, Arkansas has legal aid groups and state agencies that can help with applications and appeals. Local Social Security offices can also provide support[5][7].
In 2025, the maximum SSDI payment is $4,018/month. The maximum SSI payment is $967/month for an individual and $1,450/month for a couple[1].
You can appeal within 60 days of the denial. Arkansas has legal aid groups that can help with the appeal process. You may need to provide more medical evidence or attend a hearing[1][2][3][4].
