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Illinois • Mental Health
If you have depression in Illinois, you may qualify for federal and state benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with depression, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) criteria. Depression is listed under mental disorders. You must show that your condition severely limits your ability to work and daily activities. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. In 2025, the SSI income limit is $967 per month for an individual. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. If you earn more than this, you may not qualify for SSDI. SSA reviews your medical records and work history to decide eligibility [2][3][6].
In Illinois, you can get Medicaid coverage through the Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities (HBWD) program if you have depression and are working. HBWD allows workers with disabilities to earn up to $4,393 per month (single) or $5,962 (couple) and keep Medicaid. Unlike other Medicaid programs, HBWD lets you have up to $25,000 in assets. You must be between 16 and 64 years old and working. Illinois also offers Medicaid waivers for people with developmental disabilities and other needs. These programs may help with home care, therapy, and support services. Check with the Illinois Department of Human Services for details [1][4][7].
Illinois ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save up to $18,000 per year for qualified expenses. The total balance can be up to $500,000 without affecting SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use funds for housing, education, transportation, and more. Open an account online at IL ABLE [8].
You must report changes in income, work, or health to SSA and DHS. Not reporting can lead to overpayments and penalties. Use the SSA online portal or call 1-800-772-1213 to report changes. For Illinois benefits, call 1-800-843-6154 [4].
Call the Illinois Department of Human Services at 1-800-843-6154 for help with Medicaid and other benefits. For Social Security, call 1-800-772-1213.
Yes, if your depression is severe and meets SSA criteria. You must have limited income and resources. SSI pays up to $967/month in 2025. Apply through Social Security [6].
Yes, you can work and keep benefits with special rules. The SGA limit is $1,620/month in 2025. If you earn more, you may lose SSDI but can keep SSI or Medicaid [2][3].
HBWD is Medicaid for workers with disabilities. You can earn up to $4,393/month (single) and keep Medicaid. You can have up to $25,000 in assets. Apply through DHS [1].
If you have SSI or SSDI, you may get Medicaid automatically. Otherwise, apply through DHS. Call 1-800-843-6154 or apply online [4].
Illinois offers waivers for people with developmental disabilities and other needs. These may cover therapy, home care, and support. Check with DHS for details [7].
Yes, Illinois ABLE accounts let you save up to $18,000/year for disability expenses. The balance can be up to $500,000 without losing SSI or Medicaid [8].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
The SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals in 2025. If you earn more, you may lose SSDI but can keep SSI or Medicaid [3].
Report changes to SSA online or by phone at 1-800-772-1213. For Illinois benefits, call 1-800-843-6154. Not reporting can lead to overpayments [4].
Yes, if you have low income, you can get SNAP. Apply through DHS. Call 1-800-843-6154 for help [4].
You can appeal the decision. Ask for help from a Work Incentives Planning and Assistance Program. Call 1-866-968-7842 for support [4].
