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Idaho • Mental Health
If you have depression that prevents you from working, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI in Idaho. These programs can help with monthly income and healthcare. Idaho does not have its own disability program, but residents can access federal benefits and Medicaid services. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medical condition like depression that stops you from working and have paid Social Security taxes for at least five of the last ten years. SSDI payments depend on your work history and average about $1,334 per month in Idaho. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with low income and limited work history. SSI payments average $612 per month in Idaho. Both programs require that your depression is severe enough to prevent you from doing any substantial work for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses strict medical and work criteria to decide if you qualify.
For 2025, benefits will increase by 2.5% due to the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for non-blind individuals is $1,470 per month in 2024, with a similar increase expected in 2025. If you earn more than this, your benefits may be affected.
Source: SSA.gov, 2025 SSDI/SSI updates [Accessed: 2024-11-05]
Idaho does not have its own state disability program, so residents must apply for federal SSDI or SSI benefits. If you have depression and need Medicaid, you must first apply for Medicaid and meet financial eligibility. If your depression is part of a developmental disability (such as intellectual disability or autism), you may qualify for special Medicaid services for adults with developmental disabilities. To qualify, your disability must be chronic, appear before age 22, and substantially limit your ability in at least three major life activities. Idaho’s Medicaid program also covers mental health services for eligible residents.
Source: Idaho Health and Welfare, Medicaid DD Programs [Accessed: 2024-11-05]
Source: SSA.gov, Medicaid.gov [Accessed: 2024-11-05]
Idaho does not have its own state disability program. However, Idaho residents can access federal SSDI and SSI benefits. Idaho’s Medicaid program offers special services for adults with developmental disabilities, including those with depression if it meets specific criteria (chronic, onset before age 22, and substantial limitations in major life activities). To apply for these services, you must first qualify for Medicaid and then complete a separate application for developmental disability services. Idaho Health and Welfare also provides mental health services and support for eligible residents.
Source: Idaho Health and Welfare, Medicaid DD Programs [Accessed: 2024-11-05]
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities, including depression, save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You must have become disabled before age 26. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses. Idaho residents can open an ABLE account through the national ABLE program.
Source: ABLE National Resource Center [Accessed: 2024-11-05]
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you must not earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,470 per month in 2024 (expected to increase in 2025). Medicaid income limits vary based on household size and other factors.
Source: SSA.gov, Medicaid.gov [Accessed: 2024-11-05]
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you receive an overpayment, you may be able to request a waiver or set up a repayment plan.
Source: SSA.gov, Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes [Accessed: 2024-11-05]
Consider contacting a disability advocate or attorney for help with your application. Idaho Health and Welfare and Social Security offices can also provide support.
Yes, depression can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months. You must provide medical evidence and meet Social Security’s criteria.
The average SSDI payment in Idaho is about $1,334 per month. The average SSI payment is about $612 per month. Amounts depend on your work history and income.
No, Idaho does not have its own state disability program. Residents must apply for federal SSDI or SSI benefits.
Yes, if you qualify for SSI or meet Idaho’s Medicaid income and disability requirements, you can get Medicaid coverage for depression and other mental health services.
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. For Medicaid, apply through Idaho Health and Welfare. You may need to provide medical records and work history.
If your claim is denied, you can appeal. Consider getting help from a disability advocate or attorney. You have 60 days to file an appeal after receiving a denial letter.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.
Yes, there are work incentives that let you try working without losing benefits. If you earn more than the SGA limit, your benefits may be affected.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities, including depression, who became disabled before age 26. Idaho residents can open an account through the national ABLE program.
Yes, you must report changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to Social Security. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties.
You can get help from a disability advocate, attorney, or local nonprofit. Idaho Health and Welfare and Social Security offices can also provide information and support.
