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Michigan • Mental Health
If you have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Michigan, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes, and your OCD must be severe enough to stop you from doing substantial work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the term "substantial gainful activity" (SGA) to set the income limit. In 2025, the SGA limit is expected to be $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,550 for blind individuals. If you earn less than this, you may still qualify for SSDI.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with disabilities who have little income or assets. In 2025, the federal SSI maximum is $943 per month for an individual. You do not need a work history for SSI. Both SSDI and SSI require proof that your OCD is disabling and expected to last at least 12 months.
Children with OCD may also qualify for benefits if their parent receives Social Security benefits or if they meet the adult disability rules.
Source: SSA Disability Qualifications Source: 2025 SSDI Proposed Changes Source: SSI vs SSDI in Michigan
In Michigan, adults with OCD may also qualify for State Disability Assistance (SDA), which provides cash help to those who are disabled and meet income and asset limits. SDA is for people who do not qualify for federal SSDI or SSI, or who need extra support. To get SDA, you must be a U.S. citizen or qualified legal immigrant, live in Michigan, and not receive cash aid from another state.
Michigan residents on SSI may get a small state supplement to their federal SSI payment. The amount depends on your living situation. Medicaid is automatically available to SSI recipients, which can help with health care costs.
If you are a caretaker for someone with OCD, you may also be eligible for SDA or other state programs.
Source: State Disability Assistance Program (SDA) Source: What is SSI in Michigan Source: SSI vs SSDI in Michigan
For help, contact a Michigan Benefit-to-Work Coach or a local legal aid office.
Source: SSA Disability Qualifications Source: SSI vs SSDI in Michigan Source: Michigan Disability Benefits 101
Source: SSA Disability Qualifications Source: SSI vs SSDI in Michigan
Source: State Disability Assistance Program (SDA) Source: Michigan Disability Benefits 101 Source: Medicaid Waivers in Michigan Source: Michigan ABLE Accounts
Michigan ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid. You can use the funds for housing, education, transportation, and other qualified expenses. To open an account, visit the Michigan ABLE website.
Source: Michigan ABLE Accounts
Source: 2025 SSDI Proposed Changes Source: What is SSI in Michigan
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to the SSA or MDHHS. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. For help, see the guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes.
Source: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes Source: SSA Disability Qualifications
Contact a Michigan Benefit-to-Work Coach or a local legal aid office for free help with your application.
Yes, if your OCD is severe enough to prevent you from working or doing daily tasks, you may qualify for SSDI, SSI, or State Disability Assistance. You need medical proof and must meet income and asset limits.
SSDI is for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for those with low income and assets, regardless of work history. Both require proof that your OCD is disabling.
SSDI payments depend on your work history. SSI maximum is $943 per month in 2025. SDA payments are for those with very low income and assets. Michigan may add a small supplement to SSI.
Yes, but there are limits. In 2025, you can earn up to $1,530 per month and still get SSDI. SSI has lower limits. Work incentives help you keep benefits while trying to work.
You do not need a lawyer, but one can help with the process, especially if your claim is denied. Legal aid offices in Michigan offer free or low-cost help.
You need a diagnosis from a doctor and details about how OCD affects your daily life and ability to work. Medical records, treatment notes, and statements from your doctor are important.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Yes, if a child's OCD is severe and meets the SSA's rules, they may get benefits. This can be on their own record or as a dependent on a parent's record.
The process can take several months. After you apply, the SSA reviews your case and may ask for more information. If denied, you can appeal.
If denied, you can appeal. You have 60 days to file an appeal. You may need to provide more medical proof or attend a hearing.
Yes, SSI recipients automatically get Medicaid. SSDI recipients may qualify for Medicaid if they have low income. Medicaid covers health care, including mental health services.
