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Michigan • Mental Health
If you have bipolar disorder in Michigan, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs such as SDA. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available in 2025.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with bipolar disorder, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This means your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work and must last at least 12 months or result in death. For SSDI, you need a qualifying work history (usually 40 credits, 20 in the last 10 years). For SSI, you must have limited income and assets, regardless of work history. Both programs require medical proof of your bipolar disorder and its impact on your ability to work. Children with bipolar disorder may also qualify for benefits if they meet the criteria.
Citations: [1], [2], [5]
In Michigan, adults with bipolar disorder may qualify for the State Disability Assistance (SDA) program if they meet the state’s criteria for disability and financial need. SDA is for adults with disabilities who do not qualify for federal benefits or need extra help. You must be a U.S. citizen or qualified legal immigrant, live in Michigan, and meet income and asset limits. SDA is not available if you receive cash assistance from another state. Michigan also offers Medicaid to SSI recipients, which can help cover health care costs for those with bipolar disorder. Some Michigan residents may get a state supplement to their SSI payment.
Citations: [2], [3], [4], [7]
Citations: [5], [6]
SSA Apply Online Michigan SDA Application
Citations: [5], [6], [7]
Citations: [1], [2], [3], [5]
Michigan SDA Michigan Medicaid
Citations: [2], [3], [4], [7]
ABLE accounts let people with bipolar disorder save money for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) and the account grows tax-free. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other disability-related costs. Michigan residents can open an ABLE account through the Michigan ABLE program.
Citations: [3]
SSA SGA Limits Michigan SSI Limits
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It’s important to report any changes in income, work, or health to the SSA or MDHHS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you don’t report changes or if your situation changes. If you get an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan. Always keep records of your reports and communications.
Citations: [5]
Contact a Michigan Benefit-to-Work Coach for free help with disability benefits and work questions. Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office.
Yes, if your bipolar disorder is severe enough to prevent you from working and you have limited income and assets. You must meet SSA’s medical and financial criteria. SSI is available to Michigan residents who qualify.
Yes, if your bipolar disorder is severe enough to prevent you from working and you have a qualifying work history. SSDI is available to Michigan residents who qualify.
The SGA limit for non-blind individuals in 2025 is expected to be $1,530 per month. For blind individuals, it’s $2,550 per month. This is the maximum you can earn and still qualify for SSDI.
Yes, if your SSDI payment is low and you meet the financial requirements for SSI. This is called concurrent benefits and can help make up the difference in your monthly income.
SDA is the State Disability Assistance program. It provides cash assistance to adults with disabilities who do not qualify for federal benefits or need extra help. You must meet Michigan’s criteria for disability and financial need.
Yes, SSI recipients in Michigan automatically qualify for Medicaid, which covers health care costs for those with bipolar disorder and other disabilities.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.
Yes, but there are limits. You can earn up to the SGA limit and still get SSDI. For SSI, your income must stay below the limit. Work incentives can help you test your ability to work without losing benefits.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $17,000 per year and use the funds for housing, education, transportation, and other costs.
Gather medical records and proof of income, then apply online at SSA.gov or at your local Social Security office. For SDA, apply through MDHHS. You can also get help from a Michigan Benefit-to-Work Coach.
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. You have 60 days to file an appeal. You can get help from a disability attorney or legal services office.
