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Delaware • Mental Health
If you have depression in Delaware, you may qualify for federal and state benefits. These include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and other support programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with depression, you must have a diagnosis that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a work history and enough work credits. For Supplemental Security Income (SSDI), your income and assets must be low. Depression is recognized as a disabling condition if it is severe enough to stop you from doing substantial work. You must provide medical records and a doctor’s statement to support your claim. [^1]
SSDI and SSI both require that your depression is diagnosed by a licensed medical professional and documented in your medical records. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a set of criteria to determine if your depression is disabling. These include symptoms like persistent sadness, loss of interest, trouble concentrating, and inability to function at work. [^1]
State-specific information is limited; start here:
For more information, contact the Delaware Division of Social Services or the Delaware Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.
For more information, visit SSA.gov or call 1-800-772-1213.
Delaware does not have a state short-term disability program. Most people with depression in Delaware rely on federal programs like SSDI and SSI. Delaware Medicaid covers mental health services for people with depression, including therapy and medication. To qualify, you must meet income and asset limits. Delaware also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, which can provide additional support services. If you are unable to work due to depression, you may also qualify for other state programs, such as vocational rehabilitation or supported employment. For more information, contact the Delaware Division of Social Services or the Delaware Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. [^3][^4][^5]
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for benefits like SSI and Medicaid. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, and transportation. To open an ABLE account in Delaware, visit the official ABLE website or contact a financial institution that offers ABLE accounts. [^6]
For SSI, the income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple in 2025. For Medicaid, the income limit varies based on household size and other factors. For more information, visit the Delaware Division of Social Services website. [^7]
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report any changes in your income, work status, or living situation to avoid overpayments. For more information, see the Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide. [^8]
Contact your local Social Security office or the Delaware Division of Social Services for help with your application.
Yes, if your depression prevents you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. You must provide medical records and a doctor’s statement to support your claim.
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local SSA office. For Medicaid, apply through Delaware ASSIST.
You need records from a licensed mental health professional, including diagnosis, treatment plan, therapy notes, and any hospitalizations related to your depression.
You can work, but your earnings must be below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit. If you earn too much, you may lose your benefits.
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with low income and assets who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older.
Delaware does not have a state short-term disability program. Most people with depression in Delaware rely on federal programs like SSDI and SSI.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, Delaware Medicaid covers mental health services for people with depression, including therapy and medication. You must meet income and asset limits.
An ABLE account allows you to save money without losing eligibility for benefits like SSI and Medicaid. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses.
The approval process can take several months. It may take longer if you need to appeal a denial.
You can appeal the decision. You may want to get help from a disability advocate or attorney.
