Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Benefits in Arkansas

To get federal disability benefits for PTSD, you must show that your condition is severe enough to stop you from doing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for at least 12 months. In 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered SGA and could disqualify you[1][2][3].

• You must have a diagnosis from a qualified medical professional.
• Your PTSD must significantly limit your ability to work or do daily activities.
• You must meet either the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) listing for mental disorders or prove your condition is equally severe.
• SSDI requires enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years)[4].
• SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history[4].

Arkansas does not offer a separate state disability program for adults with PTSD. Eligibility for federal benefits is the same as in other states. However, Arkansas residents may qualify for additional supports like Medicaid, food assistance, and housing programs if they meet income limits.

• There are no state-specific disability payments for PTSD in Arkansas.
• You may qualify for Medicaid if your income is low and you have a disability[5].
• Arkansas also offers Medicaid waivers for people with developmental disabilities, but these are not for PTSD[5].
• If you are approved for SSDI or SSI, you may also get Medicare or Medicaid, depending on your situation[6].

• Get a diagnosis from a doctor or mental health professional.
• Gather medical records and work history.
• Decide if you want to apply for SSDI (work history) or SSI (low income).
• Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office.
• Follow up and provide any additional information SSA requests.

• Step 1: Get a diagnosis and treatment for PTSD from a qualified medical professional. Keep all records.
• Step 2: Collect your work history, pay stubs, and any other proof of income.
• Step 3: Decide if you want to apply for SSDI (if you have a work history) or SSI (if you have low income and few resources).
• Step 4: Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local Social Security office.
• Step 5: SSA will review your application and may ask for more information or a medical exam.
• Step 6: If approved, you will get a letter with your benefit amount and start date. If denied, you can appeal.
• Step 7: Report any changes in income, work, or health to SSA to avoid overpayments[7].

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. In 2025, the average SSDI payment is $1,580, with a maximum of $4,018 per month[1].
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly payments for people with low income and few resources. The amount varies by state and individual circumstances[4].
• Medicare: Available after 24 months of SSDI, except for certain conditions like ALS[4].
• Medicaid: Available for those with low income, including some SSDI and SSI recipients[6].

Arkansas does not have a state disability program for adults with PTSD. However, you may qualify for other state supports:

• Medicaid: Health coverage for low-income individuals with disabilities. You can apply through the Arkansas Department of Human Services[5].
• Medicaid Waivers: For people with developmental disabilities, not PTSD[5].
• Food Assistance (SNAP): For low-income individuals and families[5].
• Housing Assistance: For low-income individuals with disabilities[5].

If you are approved for SSDI or SSI, you may also get Medicare or Medicaid, depending on your situation[6].

ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Arkansas residents can open an ABLE account through the national ABLE program. The account can be used for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and transportation[8].

In 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) and could disqualify you from SSDI or SSI[1][2][3]. SSI has strict income and resource limits. For 2025, the SSI federal benefit rate is $943 per month for an individual, but this can be reduced by other income[4].

If your income, work, or health changes, you must report it to SSA. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person[7].

• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Hours: Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–7 p.m.

  Website

  Apply online, by phone, or in person.
• Arkansas Department of Human Services
  Phone: 1-844-889-9711

  Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

  Website

  Apply for Medicaid and food assistance.

• Can PTSD qualify for disability benefits in Arkansas?

  Yes, PTSD can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it is severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months. You must provide medical proof and meet the SSA’s criteria.

• How much can I get in disability benefits for PTSD in Arkansas?

  The average SSDI payment in 2025 is $1,580 per month, with a maximum of $4,018. SSI payments vary by income and resources, with a federal rate of $943 per month.

• Do I need to be working to get disability for PTSD in Arkansas?

  No, you must not be able to do Substantial Gainful Activity. In 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered SGA and could disqualify you.

• What medical proof do I need for PTSD disability in Arkansas?

  You need a diagnosis from a qualified medical professional and records showing how PTSD affects your ability to work or do daily activities.

• Can I get Medicaid with PTSD in Arkansas?

  Yes, if your income is low and you have a disability, you may qualify for Medicaid. You can apply through the Arkansas Department of Human Services.

• Are there state disability payments for PTSD in Arkansas?

  No, Arkansas does not have a state disability program for adults with PTSD. You must apply for federal SSDI or SSI.

• How long does it take to get disability for PTSD in Arkansas?