If you have depression in Missouri, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and other supports. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available in 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) due to depression, your condition must prevent you from working for at least 12 months and meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. For SSDI, you must have earned enough work credits. For SSI, your income and resources must be below certain limits. Depression is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book under mental disorders, and you must meet specific medical criteria to qualify. The SSA reviews your medical records, work history, and how your depression affects daily life. If approved, you may receive monthly payments and access to Medicare or Medicaid.
SSA Disability Qualifications (accessed 2025-11-06)
In Missouri, people with depression may also qualify for state benefits like MO HealthNet (Medicaid), food assistance (SNAP), and vocational rehabilitation. MO HealthNet covers mental health services, including therapy and medication. To qualify for MO HealthNet, your income must be below certain limits, which are updated yearly. Missouri also offers the MO ABLE program, allowing people with disabilities to save money without losing benefits. Work incentives are available to help you return to work without losing benefits. If you are approved for SSDI or SSI, you may automatically qualify for MO HealthNet. Contact your local Family Support Division (FSD) office for more information on state benefits.
MO HealthNet Income Limits (accessed 2025-11-06), MO ABLE Program (accessed 2025-11-06)
Start here: SSA Disability Application (accessed 2025-11-06)
SSA Disability Application (accessed 2025-11-06), MO HealthNet Application (accessed 2025-11-06), Vocational Rehabilitation (accessed 2025-11-06)
SSA Disability Programs (accessed 2025-11-06)
MO HealthNet (accessed 2025-11-06), MO ABLE Program (accessed 2025-11-06), Vocational Rehabilitation (accessed 2025-11-06)
The MO ABLE program allows people with disabilities to save money without losing federal benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year in an ABLE account. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like therapy, education, and housing. Opening an ABLE account does not affect your eligibility for SSDI, SSI, or MO HealthNet.
MO ABLE Program (accessed 2025-11-06)
In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for SSDI is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. MO HealthNet income limits vary by household size. For a household of 1, the limit is $1,692 per month.
SSA SGA Limit (accessed 2025-11-06), MO HealthNet Income Limits (accessed 2025-11-06)
If your income, work, or health changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment or loss of benefits. Report changes to SSA and FSD as soon as possible. Keep records of all communications.
SSA Reporting Changes (accessed 2025-11-06), FSD Reporting Changes (accessed 2025-11-06)
Contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or your local Family Support Division office for help with applications and questions.
Yes, depression can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it prevents you from working for at least 12 months and meets SSA’s medical criteria. You must provide medical records and show how depression affects daily life.
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. Earning more than this may affect your SSDI benefits.
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local SSA office. You’ll need medical records and work history.
Missouri offers MO HealthNet (Medicaid), SNAP, vocational rehabilitation, and the MO ABLE program. MO HealthNet covers mental health services.
Yes, you can work, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. Work incentives help you return to work without losing benefits.
The maximum SSDI payment in Missouri is $4,555 per month. SSI payments are up to $943 per month for an individual.
The MO ABLE program allows people with disabilities to save money without losing federal benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year for disability-related expenses.
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, you must report changes in income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. Report changes to SSA and FSD as soon as possible.
Yes, children with depression may qualify for SSI or MO HealthNet if they meet medical and income criteria. Benefits may continue into adulthood if the disability persists.
SSDI is for those who worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for those with limited income and resources. Both require proof of disability.
