If you have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Massachusetts, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and key programs like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts.
To get federal disability benefits for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) rules. PTSD is listed under mental disorders in the SSA Blue Book (Section 12.06). You need medical proof that your PTSD is severe enough to stop you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months. You must also have enough work credits for SSDI (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years) or meet income and asset limits for SSI. The SSA reviews your medical records, work history, and how PTSD affects your daily life. If approved, you may get monthly payments and access to Medicare or Medicaid.
In Massachusetts, MassAbility Disability Determination Services (DDS) handles your initial application and appeals for SSI and SSDI. DDS uses medical and mental health experts to review your case. If you get SSI, Massachusetts adds a small state supplement to your federal payment. You may also qualify for Medicaid waivers (HCBS) for extra support at home or in the community. To keep benefits, you must report changes in income, living situation, or health. DDS does periodic reviews to check if you still qualify. If your claim is denied, you can appeal with help from DDS or a legal aid group.
Step 1: Get your medical records. These should include your PTSD diagnosis, treatment history, and how PTSD limits your daily activities and work.
Step 2: Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or visit their website to start your application. You can apply online, by phone, or in person.
Step 3: MassAbility DDS will contact you for more info or to schedule a medical exam. They may ask for work history or financial details.
Step 4: Attend any required interviews or exams. DDS uses medical and mental health experts to review your case.
Step 5: Wait for a decision. If approved, you’ll get monthly payments. If denied, you can appeal within 60 days.
Step 6: Report any changes in income, living situation, or health to avoid overpayments.
Step 7: If you need extra support, apply for Medicaid waivers or state supplements through MassHealth or DDS.
SSA: How to Apply for Disability (2025-11-06)
MassAbility DDS: Disability Determination Services (2025-11-06)
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments if you have enough work credits and a severe disability like PTSD.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly payments if you have low income and assets, plus a disability like PTSD.
Medicare: Health coverage for most SSDI recipients after 24 months.
Medicaid: Health coverage for most SSI recipients.
Work Incentives: Programs to help you work without losing benefits.
SSA: Disability Programs (2025-11-06)
Massachusetts Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Extra support for people with disabilities to live at home or in the community. Covers services like personal care, therapy, and respite care.
State SSI Supplement: Massachusetts adds a small amount to your federal SSI payment.
MassHealth: State Medicaid program for health coverage.
ABLE Accounts: Tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities.
Periodic Disability Reviews: MassAbility DDS checks if you still qualify for benefits.
Massachusetts Medicaid Waivers (HCBS) (2025-11-06)
Massachusetts ABLE Accounts (2025-11-06)
MassHealth (2025-11-06)
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Massachusetts, you can open an ABLE account through the state program. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit). Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like therapy, education, or housing. ABLE accounts do not count toward SSI asset limits.
SSI: In 2025, the maximum federal SSI payment is $967 for an individual and $1450 for a married couple. Massachusetts adds a small state supplement. Income from work is treated more favorably than other income.
SSDI: There is no strict income limit, but you cannot earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. In 2025, SGA is expected to be about $1,500 per month for non-blind individuals.
Medicaid: Income and asset limits apply; they vary by program and household size.
SSA: SSI Payment Amounts (2025-11-06)
Massachusetts Medicaid Waivers Income Limits (2025-11-06)
You must report changes in income, living situation, or health to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to SSA and MassAbility DDS as soon as possible. Work incentives can help you keep benefits while working. If you get an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan.
Call MassAbility DDS at 617-727-1600 (Boston) or 508-752-5001 (Worcester) for help with your application or appeal.
Yes, PTSD can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it meets SSA criteria. You need medical proof that PTSD is severe and stops you from working. MassAbility DDS reviews your case and may ask for more info.
The maximum federal SSI payment in 2025 is $967 for an individual. Massachusetts adds a small state supplement. SSDI payments depend on your work history. Income from work is treated more favorably.
You need records showing your PTSD diagnosis, treatment history, and how PTSD limits your daily life and work. Include notes from doctors, therapists, and hospitals.
Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to start your application. MassAbility DDS will review your case and may ask for more info or schedule a medical exam.
Yes, you can work, but there are limits. In 2025, the SGA limit is about $1,500 per month. Work incentives help you keep benefits while working.
If denied, you can appeal within 60 days. MassAbility DDS will review your appeal and may schedule a hearing. You can get help from a legal aid group.
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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Yes, Massachusetts offers Medicaid waivers (HCBS) for extra support at home or in the community. You may also get a state supplement to SSI and access to ABLE accounts.
DDS does periodic reviews to check if you still qualify. The frequency depends on your case. You must report changes in income, living situation, or health.
Yes, you can get both if you meet the rules for each. SSDI is based on work history, SSI on income and assets. Both can help cover living costs and health care.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $17,000 per year in 2025.
