Massachusetts offers several financial and medical benefit programs for people with depression, including SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid. Eligibility depends on your income, work history, and the severity of your depression. This guide explains how to apply, what support is available, and where to get help.
To qualify for SSDI with depression, you generally need to have worked and paid Social Security taxes for at least 10 years, earning a minimum number of credits. For 2025, this typically means 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began[5]. Your depression must severely limit your ability to work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For SSI, there is no work requirement, but you must have limited income and resources, and your depression must meet the same severity standard. Both programs require medical evidence, such as records from doctors, therapists, or hospitals, showing how depression affects your daily life and work. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for 2025 will increase slightly from 2024; earning above this amount may affect your eligibility[1].
Massachusetts Disability Determination Services (DDS) decides if you qualify for SSI or SSDI. DDS uses a team of medical and mental health professionals to review your claim[2]. They look at your job history (especially the last 15 years), education, medical records, and may ask for statements from people who know you well. Massachusetts also offers a small state supplement to the federal SSI payment, but the main rules follow federal guidelines. For Medicaid, income limits and eligibility rules may be more flexible under certain waivers, but you must apply separately. If you have questions, contact DDS directly for help specific to Massachusetts[2].
Start by gathering your medical records, work history, and proof of income. You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at the Social Security website, by phone, or in person at a local office. If you need help, contact Massachusetts DDS at 617-727-1600 or visit their offices in Everett or Worcester[2]. You may also apply for Medicaid through MassHealth.
SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) provides monthly payments if you have a sufficient work history and your depression prevents you from working. SSI (Supplemental Security Income) offers cash assistance based on financial need, with a maximum federal benefit rate of $967 for individuals in 2025[3]. Medicare is available after 24 months of SSDI eligibility. ABLE accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without losing benefits.
Massachusetts supplements the federal SSI payment with a small state payment. MassHealth (Medicaid) provides free or low-cost health coverage, including mental health services. Massachusetts also offers Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers for people who need extra support to live at home. To apply for MassHealth, visit the state’s official website. For SSI and SSDI, your application is managed by Massachusetts DDS, which has offices in Everett and Worcester[2]. State-specific information on cash benefits is limited; start here: Mass.gov’s disability benefits page and the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services for HCBS options. Always check directly with these agencies for the latest details.
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for qualified expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Anyone who became disabled before age 26 can open an ABLE account.
For SSI, your income and resources must be below federal limits—$967/month for an individual in 2025[3]. Earned income (like wages) is treated more favorably than unearned income. For SSDI, there’s no strict income limit, but you cannot engage in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). The 2025 SGA limit is expected to increase slightly from 2024 ($1,470/month for non-blind individuals)[1].
If your income or situation changes, report it immediately to the Social Security Administration or Massachusetts DDS. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to pay back. Keep records of all updates. See our guide on avoiding overpayments for more tips.
Depression can qualify you for SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid in Massachusetts if it severely limits your ability to work or manage daily life. Medical documentation is key—keep records from doctors, therapists, and hospitals. Apply through Social Security for SSI/SSDI and MassHealth for Medicaid. For help, contact Massachusetts DDS directly.
Yes, but your earnings must stay below the SGA limit, which is about $1,470/month for non-blind individuals in 2025. SSI also has strict income and resource limits. Special work incentives may help you keep some benefits while working. For details, see our SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide.
Processing times vary, but Massachusetts DDS aims to review claims as quickly as possible. Delays can happen if more medical information is needed. Check with DDS for current wait times.
You can appeal. Massachusetts DDS can explain the process, and you may want to seek help from a legal aid organization or advocate.
Massachusetts provides a small state supplement to the federal SSI payment. Check with your local DDS office for the exact amount and eligibility.
Yes, MassHealth covers mental health services for eligible residents. Apply separately from SSI or SSDI.
Submit records from doctors, therapists, and hospitals that show your diagnosis, treatment, and how depression limits your daily activities and ability to work.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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Youth with depression may qualify for SSI if they meet income and disability rules. Some Massachusetts HCBS waivers may also offer additional support. Check with DDS and MassHealth.
Payments are adjusted annually for cost of living. For 2025, the increase is 2.5%[1].
Yes, through an ABLE account, which lets you save for disability-related expenses without affecting eligibility for most benefits.
Report any improvement in your condition to the Social Security Administration or Massachusetts DDS. They will review your case and may adjust your benefits.
