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Montana • Mental Health
Montana residents with depression may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities, and other state supports. This guide explains federal and state eligibility, how to apply, key Montana programs, income and banking options, and where to get help.
To qualify for SSDI with depression, you must have a medical condition (like major depressive disorder) that prevents you from working for at least a year, and you must have earned enough work credits—generally 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began[4]. SSI has strict income and asset limits and is for people with limited work history. Both programs require medical proof that your depression severely limits daily activities and ability to work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the same medical criteria nationwide, so depression must meet their Blue Book listing or equal it in severity[4].
Montana Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews SSI and SSDI claims using federal rules, but the state also offers unique programs. For example, Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD) helps adults with depression who want to work but risk losing Medicaid due to income. Eligibility is based on disability status, Montana residency, income, and willingness to pay a premium on a sliding scale[2]. State Medicaid may cover therapy, medications, and other mental health services not always included in private insurance. To find out if you qualify, contact your local Office of Public Assistance—eligibility is decided case by case[2]. Montana also has developmental disability services and independent living programs, though these may not be specific to depression[3].
Start your application for depression benefits by gathering medical records, work history, and personal ID. You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a Montana Social Security office. For Medicaid, visit your local Office of Public Assistance. Ask your doctor or a disability advocate for help if needed.
SSI and SSDI are federal programs that provide monthly cash benefits to people with depression who meet disability and financial criteria[4]. SSDI is for those with enough work credits; SSI is for low-income individuals with limited assets. Both require medical proof that depression severely limits your ability to work. Medicare (after 24 months of SSDI) and certain Medicaid waivers may also help with health care costs. ABLE accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without losing benefits.
Montana offers several programs beyond federal benefits. Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD) lets adults with depression keep Medicaid while working, paying premiums based on income[2]. This is crucial for those who might otherwise lose coverage due to earning too much. Montana Medicaid covers mental health services, therapy, and prescriptions. The state also has a Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (not specific to depression) and independent living centers that may offer counseling, job training, or peer support[3]. State-specific information is limited; start by contacting your local Office of Public Assistance or Montana DDS for the most current options[1][2].
Montana residents with depression can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Funds in ABLE accounts (up to a certain limit) are not counted as assets for benefit programs. This can help pay for therapy, medications, transportation, or other needs.
SSI has strict income and asset limits—generally, you can’t have more than $2,000 in assets ($3,000 for couples) and must have very low income. SSDI does not have asset limits, but you must have enough work credits. Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities uses a sliding scale—you may qualify even if your income is above regular Medicaid limits, but you’ll pay a premium[2]. Always check current limits, as they change yearly.
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security and Medicaid to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to benefit cuts or having to pay money back. See our guide on Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes for tips to stay compliant.
Montana Disability Determination Services and local Social Security offices can answer questions about your claim. Nonprofits and disability advocates may also offer free help with applications and appeals. Don’t hesitate to ask for support—many people are denied at first but win on appeal with the right help.
If you want to work but worry about losing benefits, Montana’s Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities and federal work incentives may let you keep health coverage and some cash benefits. Always report changes in work or income to avoid problems. See our SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide for more.
Yes, with SSI/SSDI work incentives and Montana’s Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities, you may keep some benefits and health coverage while working. Always report earnings to avoid overpayments and check how income affects your eligibility.
You need detailed medical records, including doctor and therapist notes, medication lists, and evidence showing how depression limits your daily activities and ability to work. A formal diagnosis and treatment history are essential.
You have 60 days to appeal. Consider getting help from a disability advocate or attorney. Many denials are overturned on appeal with the right evidence.
Yes, Montana Medicaid covers therapy, counseling, medications, and sometimes case management for depression. Coverage details depend on your specific Medicaid plan.
Yes, ABLE accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. There are annual and lifetime limits on deposits.
It typically takes 3–5 months for an initial decision, but appeals can take much longer. Delays often happen if medical evidence is incomplete.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Benefits and eligibility rules change frequently; always verify with official agencies.
Apply at your local Office of Public Assistance. Bring proof of income, disability, and Montana residency. They will help determine your eligibility and explain any premiums for working adults.
SSDI is based on work history and requires enough credits. SSI is for low-income individuals with limited work history. Both require medical proof of disability. See our SSI vs SSDI guide for details.
Montana may offer limited grants for disability-related expenses through independent living centers or developmental disability programs. For depression, most support comes through SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid[3].
Report the change immediately to Social Security and Medicaid. You may qualify for work incentives or Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities to keep your coverage[2].
