Panic Disorder Benefits in Massachusetts

To get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes, earning enough work credits. Most people need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled [6].

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require a medical condition that stops you from working for at least a year or is expected to result in death [6].

For Panic Disorder, Social Security looks at how much your symptoms limit your ability to do daily activities, social functioning, and maintain concentration. You must show that your condition is severe enough to prevent you from doing any substantial work [6].

In Massachusetts, eligibility for SSI and SSDI follows federal rules. However, the state may add a small supplement to SSI payments for some people [3].

MassAbility Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews your medical records and decides if you qualify for benefits. They use doctors and mental health professionals to evaluate claims [1].

If you are homeless or have HIV, MassAbility makes special efforts to help you apply. Periodic reviews check if you still qualify as your condition changes [1].

Massachusetts does not have a separate state disability program for adults, so most people apply for federal SSI or SSDI [5].

• Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to start your application.
• Gather medical records showing how Panic Disorder affects your daily life.
• Report all income and resources honestly.
• If denied, you can appeal with help from MassAbility DDS [1].
• Use the SSA BEST tool online to check eligibility [1].

• Step 1: Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visit their website to start your application. You can also apply in person at a local office.
• Step 2: Collect medical records from doctors, therapists, or hospitals that show your Panic Disorder diagnosis and how it limits your ability to work or do daily tasks.
• Step 3: Fill out all forms, including those for income, resources, and work history. Be honest and complete.
• Step 4: MassAbility DDS will review your case. They may ask for more information or schedule a medical exam.
• Step 5: If denied, you can appeal. MassAbility DDS handles appeals and can help you prepare for a hearing if needed [1].
• Step 6: If approved, you will get monthly payments. Report any changes in income or health to avoid overpayments [3].
• Step 7: You may qualify for Medicaid or other state supports. Check with your local Department of Transitional Assistance for more help [5].

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Pays benefits if you worked and paid Social Security taxes. Amount depends on your work history [6].
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Pays benefits to people with low income and resources, including those with Panic Disorder. Maximum 2025 payment is $967/month for an individual [3].
• Medicaid: If you get SSI, you may also qualify for Medicaid, which covers health care costs [5].

• Massachusetts SSI Supplement: Some people get a small extra payment added to their federal SSI benefit [3].
• Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): These programs help people with disabilities live in the community instead of institutions. You may qualify if you meet income and disability rules [5].
• MassAbility DDS: Handles all disability reviews and appeals in Massachusetts. They use local medical experts to make decisions [1].
• Other Supports: Massachusetts offers job training, housing help, and transportation for people with disabilities. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or Department of Transitional Assistance for more information [5].

An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use it for expenses like housing, education, and health care. Massachusetts has its own ABLE program with tax benefits for state residents [internal_link: ABLE Accounts].

For SSI in 2025, the maximum payment is $967/month for an individual and $1,450 for a married couple. Income includes cash, in-kind support, and some types of unearned income. The state may add a small supplement to SSI payments [3].

For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you cannot earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold. In 2025, SGA is $1,620/month for most people, or $2,700 if blind [2].

You must report changes in income, resources, or health to Social Security. If you do not, you may get an overpayment and have to pay it back. Use the SSA online portal or call to report changes. For more details, see our guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes [internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].

• MassAbility Disability Determination Services (DDS)
  Phone: 617-727-1600

  TTY: 1-800-882-2040

  Website

  Handles initial applications, appeals, and reviews for disability benefits in Massachusetts.
• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Website

  Start your application for SSI or SSDI here.

• Can Panic Disorder qualify for disability benefits in Massachusetts?

  Yes, Panic Disorder can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it severely limits your ability to work. You must show medical proof and how your symptoms affect daily life. MassAbility DDS reviews your case using federal rules [1][6].

• How much can I earn and still get SSI in Massachusetts?

  In 2025, the maximum SSI payment is $967/month for an individual. Your income, resources, and living situation affect your payment. Massachusetts may add a small state supplement [3].

• What is the SGA limit for SSDI in Massachusetts?

  The SGA limit for SSDI in 2025 is $1,620/month for most people, or $2,700 if blind. If you earn more than this, you may not qualify for SSDI [2].

• Do I need to report changes in my income or health?

  Yes, you must report any changes in income, resources, or health to Social Security. Not reporting can lead to overpayments and penalties. Report changes online or by phone [3].

• What happens if my application is denied?

  If denied, you can appeal. MassAbility DDS handles appeals and can help you prepare for a hearing. You have several levels of appeal, including a hearing before an administrative law judge [1].

• Can I work while getting SSI or SSDI?

  Yes, there are work incentives that let you try working without losing benefits right away. During the Extended Period of Eligibility, you can work and keep benefits if your earnings are below the SGA limit [2].