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Illinois • Mental Health
If you have Bipolar Disorder in Illinois, you may qualify for federal and state benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. These programs help cover medical care, living costs, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
Yes, if your Bipolar Disorder is severe enough to prevent you from working, you may qualify for SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid in Illinois. You must meet the Social Security definition of disability and the program's income and resource limits [6][7][1].
For SSI, the 2025 payment limit is $967 per month for an individual. For SSDI, you must not earn more than $1,620 per month (non-blind) to be considered disabled. For HBWD, a single person can earn up to $4,393 per month [7][3][1].
HBWD is an Illinois program that lets people with disabilities work and keep Medicaid coverage. It has higher income and asset limits than regular Medicaid, making it easier to keep benefits while working [1].
Yes, you must report changes in your income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and the Illinois Department of Human Services. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay [7].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money for qualified expenses without losing SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. You can contribute up to $18,000 per year in 2025 [9].
Yes, you can work while getting disability benefits, but there are limits on how much you can earn. Work incentives like the Ticket to Work program can help you keep benefits while you work [5].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
You will need medical records from your doctors that show your Bipolar Disorder diagnosis, treatment history, and how it affects your ability to work [6].
The approval process can take several months. It's important to apply as soon as possible and provide all required documentation to avoid delays [6].
Yes, children with Bipolar Disorder may qualify for SSI if their condition meets the Social Security definition of disability and their family's income and resources are within the limits [3].
You can get help from a Work Incentives Planning and Assistance counselor, a local benefits office, or a disability advocacy organization like The Arc of Illinois [5][4].