If you have depression in Connecticut, you may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI), Medicaid, and state programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) for depression, your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a strict definition of disability. For SSI, you must have low income and limited resources. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. Depression must meet SSA’s medical criteria, which include symptoms like persistent sadness, loss of interest, trouble concentrating, and inability to function in daily life. You must provide medical records and documentation from your healthcare provider. If approved, you may receive monthly payments and access to Medicaid or Medicare.
Learn more about federal disability eligibility (SSA.gov, accessed 2025-11-05).
In Connecticut, people with depression may qualify for state programs in addition to federal benefits. The state offers the Aid to Aged, Blind, and Disabled (AABD) program, which provides cash assistance to supplement income. Connecticut also has Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, such as the Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver, which can help people with severe disabilities stay in the community. The state does not count the 2025 federal Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) as income for AABD, so your benefits will not be reduced. To qualify for state programs, you must meet income and asset limits and provide proof of your disability. Connecticut also offers legal aid and support services for people with disabilities.
Learn more about Connecticut disability services (CT.gov, accessed 2025-11-05).
Apply for SSI/SSDI (SSA.gov, accessed 2025-11-05) Connecticut DSS application (CT.gov, accessed 2025-11-05) Legal aid in Connecticut (CTLawHelp.org, accessed 2025-11-05)
Learn more about federal disability programs (SSA.gov, accessed 2025-11-05)
Learn more about Connecticut disability programs (CT.gov, accessed 2025-11-05) Connecticut Medicaid waivers (CT.gov, accessed 2025-11-05)
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, and transportation. Connecticut offers ABLE accounts through the state’s ABLE program. To open an account, you must have a qualifying disability and meet SSA’s criteria.
Learn more about ABLE accounts (internal link)
For SSI, the federal income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Connecticut’s AABD program has its own income and asset limits, which may be higher. The state does not count the 2025 federal COLA as income for AABD, so your benefits will not be reduced. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size.
Check SSI income limits (SSA.gov, accessed 2025-11-05) Connecticut AABD income limits (CT.gov, accessed 2025-11-05)
It is important to report any changes in your income, living situation, or health to the SSA and DSS. Failure to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay. If you receive an overpayment notice, contact the agency to discuss repayment options. You can avoid overpayments by reporting changes as soon as they happen.
Learn more about avoiding overpayments (internal link)
Connecticut will not count the 2025 federal Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) as income for the AABD program. This means your benefits will not be reduced because of the COLA increase.
Yes, depression can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months. You must provide medical records and meet SSA’s criteria for disability.
You can apply online at the SSA website, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office. You will need to provide personal information, work history, and medical evidence of your depression.
Connecticut offers AABD cash assistance, Medicaid waivers, legal aid, and other support programs for people with disabilities. You may also qualify for home care and community services.
No, Connecticut does not count the 2025 federal COLA as income for the AABD program. This means your benefits will not be reduced because of the COLA increase.
The federal SSI income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Connecticut’s AABD program has its own income and asset limits.
Yes, if you have depression and meet income and asset limits, you may qualify for Medicaid in Connecticut. Medicaid covers health care services for people with disabilities.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. Connecticut offers ABLE accounts to residents who meet SSA’s criteria for disability.
Report any changes in your income, living situation, or health to the SSA and DSS as soon as they happen. This helps prevent overpayments and ensures you receive the correct amount of benefits.
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. Contact the SSA or a nonprofit legal aid organization for help with the appeals process.
Yes, Connecticut offers legal aid services for people with disabilities, including help with housing and family issues. You can contact nonprofit organizations for free legal help.
