If you have Bipolar Disorder in Montana, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. These include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with Bipolar Disorder, you must meet federal criteria. For SSDI, you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Bipolar Disorder is listed in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book under Section 12.04 for mental disorders. You must show that your symptoms severely limit your ability to work, such as problems with daily living, social functioning, or concentration. Medical evidence from doctors is required to prove your diagnosis and how it affects your life[3].
In Montana, the Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews medical eligibility for Social Security Disability using federal standards. Montana also offers the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD) program, which lets people with disabilities work and earn more without losing Medicaid coverage. Eligibility for MWD is based on your net-countable income and is determined by your local Office of Public Assistance. You must have a qualifying disability, be a Montana resident, and meet income and asset limits. The MWD program supports employment by letting you “buy-in” to Medicaid with a sliding fee scale based on your income[2].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Montana residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s program. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like education, housing, and transportation. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one[internal_link: ABLE Accounts].
For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. For Medicaid in Montana, the income limit varies by program. For the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD) program, eligibility is based on net-countable income and a sliding fee scale. Check with your local Office of Public Assistance for exact limits[2].
If your income, work status, or health changes, you must report it to Social Security and Medicaid. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Learn how to report changes and avoid overpayments[internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Contact Montana Disability Determination Services or your local Social Security office for help with your application. They can answer questions and guide you through the process.
Yes, Bipolar Disorder is a recognized disability under federal law. If your symptoms severely limit your ability to work, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. Montana uses federal criteria for eligibility.
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. For Medicaid, apply at your local Office of Public Assistance.
The MWD program lets people with disabilities work and earn more without losing Medicaid coverage. You pay a cost-share based on your net-countable income. Eligibility is determined by your local Office of Public Assistance.
Yes, Montana has work incentives and the MWD program that let you work and keep benefits. You must report changes in income or work status to avoid overpayments.
The amount depends on your work history for SSDI or your income and resources for SSI. In 2025, the federal SSI limit is $943 per month for an individual. SSDI payments vary based on your earnings.
You need medical records from your doctor that show your Bipolar Disorder diagnosis, symptoms, and how it affects your daily life and ability to work. This includes treatment history and how your symptoms limit your functioning.
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, Montana offers grants for equipment, home modifications, and disability-related services, up to $3,600 per year. Contact local agencies for more information.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Montana residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s program for disability-related expenses.
Report any changes in income, work status, or health to Social Security and Medicaid. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties.
You can get help from Montana Disability Determination Services, local Social Security offices, or a Medicaid eligibility specialist at your local Office of Public Assistance.
