If you have depression in Michigan, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus state programs such as Medicaid and the State Disability Assistance Program (SDA). This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available in 2025.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Michigan due to depression, you must meet both medical and financial criteria. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and assets. Both programs require that your depression is severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a strict definition of disability, and your condition must match their criteria for mental disorders. Documentation from doctors and therapists is required.
[Source: SSA.gov, DisabilityLawGroup.com]
In Michigan, adults with depression may qualify for additional state programs beyond federal benefits. The State Disability Assistance Program (SDA) provides cash help to adults with disabilities who do not qualify for federal benefits. To be eligible for SDA, you must be a U.S. citizen or qualified legal immigrant, live in Michigan, and meet income and asset limits. Michigan also offers Medicaid to SSI recipients and others with low income, which covers mental health services. Some people with depression may qualify for Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. Michigan residents may also receive a state supplement to their SSI payments, increasing their monthly benefit.
[Source: Michigan.gov, DisabilityLawGroup.com]
[Source: SSA.gov, Michigan.gov, DisabilityLawGroup.com]
[Source: SSA.gov, Medicare.gov, Medicaid.gov]
[Source: Michigan.gov, MDHHS, DisabilityLawGroup.com]
ABLE accounts let people with depression save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) in a tax-free account for disability-related expenses. Michigan residents can open an ABLE account through the Michigan ABLE program. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and more.
[Source: Michigan.gov, ABLE.gov]
[Source: SSA.gov, DisabilityLawGroup.com]
If your income or health changes, you must report it to Social Security or MDHHS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to repayment demands or loss of benefits. Report changes in earnings, living situation, or medical status as soon as possible. Use the SSA online portal or call your local office. For SSI and SDA, report changes to MDHHS.
[Source: SSA.gov, Michigan.gov]
Contact a Michigan Benefit-to-Work Coach for free help with disability benefits and work incentives. Call 1-800-772-1213 for Social Security or your local MDHHS office for SSI and SDA.
Yes, if your depression is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. You must provide medical proof and meet financial requirements.
In 2025, the SGA limit is expected to be $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals. Earning more than this may affect your SSDI or SSI benefits.
The federal SSI maximum in 2025 is $943 per month for individuals. Michigan may add a state supplement, so some residents get more.
SDA is a state program that gives cash help to adults with disabilities who do not qualify for federal disability benefits. You must meet income and asset limits.
No, SSI is based on financial need, not work history. SSDI requires a work history and Social Security credits.
Yes, if your SSDI payment is low and you meet SSI financial requirements, you may get both. This is called concurrent benefits.
If you get SSI, you are automatically eligible for Medicaid. Others can apply through MDHHS if they have low income and meet other requirements.
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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Medicaid waivers provide extra support for home and community-based services for people with depression, such as therapy, case management, and daily living help.
Michigan residents can open an ABLE account online through the Michigan ABLE program. You must have a qualifying disability and meet other requirements.
Report any changes in income or health to Social Security or MDHHS as soon as possible to avoid overpayments and keep your benefits.
