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Delaware • Mental Health
If you have bipolar disorder in Delaware, you may qualify for SSI cash payments, Medicaid health coverage, and state programs. These benefits help with medical costs, daily living, and offer work incentives. Eligibility depends on disability, income, and resources. This guide explains how to apply, avoid overpayments, and use ABLE accounts.
To qualify for federal disability benefits for bipolar disorder, you must meet Social Security’s definition of disability: your condition must be severe enough to prevent substantial work for at least 12 months or be expected to result in death. SSI is for low-income individuals with limited resources; SSDI is for those who’ve worked and paid into Social Security. Medicaid eligibility often follows from SSI approval but also has its own rules for adults and children. SSI income and resource limits are strict, but certain work incentive programs let you earn some income without losing Medicaid[2].
Delaware Medicaid (DSHP) follows federal guidelines but adds state-specific rules for adults and children with disabilities, including bipolar disorder. There is no official Delaware source detailing unique programs for mental health conditions, so general disability rules apply. Children receiving SSI in Delaware also qualify automatically for Medicaid. For adults, Medicaid eligibility mirrors federal poverty guidelines and considers both income and resources—your local office can confirm the latest limits. State-specific information is limited; start here: check the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services for updates.
Apply as soon as you think you may qualify—benefits are not retroactive to before your application date. Gather medical records, proof of income, and bank statements. For SSI/SSDI, file online at ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. For Medicaid, apply at Delaware’s ASSIST portal or your local Division of Social Services office.
Delaware offers Medicaid through the Division of Medicaid and Medical Assistance (DMMA). People with bipolar disorder may qualify for Diamond State Health Plan (DSHP) if they meet income and disability rules. Delaware does not have a unique state disability cash program, so residents rely on SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid. Children on SSI get Medicaid automatically. Adults must apply separately and meet income guidelines. For the latest details, contact your local Division of Social Services.
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities (including bipolar disorder) save up to $100,000 without losing SSI eligibility. Delaware offers an ABLE account program—visit the state treasurer’s site for details.
See also: ABLE Accounts for more on how these accounts work.
SSI has strict income and resource limits: in 2025, you cannot have more than $2,000 in resources ($3,000 for couples). Income limits change yearly and depend on your living situation. Medicaid (DSHP) in Delaware also has income limits—check the state’s ASSIST portal for the latest numbers.
If your income or resources go up, you must report this to Social Security and Medicaid. Failing to report can lead to overpayments—money you’ll have to pay back. Keep records of all changes and report them as soon as they happen.
If bipolar disorder makes it impossible for you to work, apply for SSI/SSDI and Delaware Medicaid. You may qualify even if you have some income—special work incentives help you keep benefits while you try to work.
Children with bipolar disorder can qualify for SSI and, if approved, automatically get Medicaid in Delaware. The process is different for adults, so always check your local DSS office for the latest rules.
Yes, both SSI and Medicaid have work incentives that let you earn some income without losing benefits. Section 1619(b) protects Medicaid for SSI recipients who work. Always report earnings to Social Security and Medicaid.
Yes, children with bipolar disorder can qualify for SSI if their condition severely limits daily activities. If approved, they get Medicaid automatically in Delaware.
SSI/SSDI decisions usually take 3–5 months. The process can be longer if you need more medical proof. You can check your status online at ssa.gov.
No, you can apply on your own. However, many people hire a lawyer or advocate, especially if their claim is denied and they need to appeal.
Delaware Medicaid (DSHP) covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescription medications, therapy, and mental health services for people with bipolar disorder who qualify.
Yes, if you qualify for both, you can have Medicare (from SSDI) and Medicaid (from SSI or low income). This is called dual eligibility and can help with costs Medicare doesn’t cover.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only. Benefits rules change often, and your situation may be unique. Always check with official agencies or a qualified benefits counselor for the latest information and advice.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. Delaware offers these accounts—see the state treasurer’s website for details.
You have 60 days to appeal. Many people are approved after appealing. Get help from legal aid or a disability advocate if you can.
You must renew your Medicaid once a year. You’ll get a notice in the mail or online. Keep your information up to date.
You can get free help from your local Division of Social Services, legal aid groups, or disability advocates. The Social Security Administration also offers free assistance online and by phone.
