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New York • Mental Health
People with anxiety disorders in New York may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and work support programs. Eligibility depends on medical documentation, income, and work history. This guide explains how to apply and what benefits are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI with an anxiety disorder, you must have a diagnosis that meets Social Security’s criteria for severity and duration. The condition must significantly limit your ability to work and last at least 12 months. You must also meet income and resource limits for SSI, or have enough work credits for SSDI. Medical records from doctors, therapists, or hospitals are required to prove your disability. Social Security reviews your application and may ask for more information or a medical exam.
For more details, see the Social Security Administration’s disability eligibility page [citation 1].
In New York, people with anxiety disorders may also qualify for state-specific programs like Medicaid, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. Medicaid provides health coverage for low-income individuals, including those with disabilities. Medicaid waivers (HCBS) can help pay for home and community-based services, such as therapy or support workers. ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. To qualify for these programs, you must meet income and disability requirements. New York also offers vocational rehabilitation and work incentives for people with disabilities. Contact your local social services office or the Department of Health for more information.
For more details, see the New York State Department of Health and Social Services websites [citation 2, 3].
For more details, see the Social Security Administration and New York State Department of Health websites [citation 1, 2, 3].
For more details, see the Social Security Administration and Medicare websites [citation 1, 4].
For more details, see the New York State Department of Health and Social Services websites [citation 2, 3].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. You must have a diagnosis before age 26 and proof of disability. You can save up to $16,000 per year (2025 limit) and the account grows tax-free. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other disability-related expenses. For more details, see the New York ABLE website [citation 5].
Income limits for SSI and Medicaid vary by program and household size. For SSI, the federal limit is $943 per month for an individual (2025). For Medicaid, the limit is higher and varies by household size and program. ABLE accounts have a contribution limit of $16,000 per year (2025). For more details, see the Social Security Administration and New York State Department of Health websites [citation 1, 2, 5].
If your income, work, or health changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you don’t report changes or if Social Security makes a mistake. If you get an overpayment, you may have to pay it back. You can request a waiver if you can’t afford to pay. For more details, see the Social Security Administration website [citation 1].
Contact your local Social Security office or social services agency for help with your application. Disability advocates and attorneys can also assist.
Yes, anxiety disorders can qualify for SSI or SSDI if they meet Social Security’s criteria for severity and duration. You must have medical records showing your condition limits your ability to work. New York also offers Medicaid and Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities.
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov or at a Social Security office. For Medicaid or Medicaid waivers, apply through your local social services office. You will need medical records and proof of income.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs require proof that your disability prevents you from working.
Yes, work incentives let you keep benefits while working. You must report any changes in your income or work to avoid overpayments. Some programs have limits on how much you can earn.
A Medicaid waiver (HCBS) helps pay for home and community-based services, such as therapy or support workers. You must meet income and disability requirements to qualify.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. You must have a diagnosis before age 26 and proof of disability. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. For official eligibility and application details, consult the Social Security Administration and New York State agencies.
You must report any changes in your income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you get an overpayment, you may have to pay it back.
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. You have 60 days to file an appeal. You can get help from a disability advocate or attorney.
Yes, New York offers extra support for people with mental health disabilities, including Medicaid waivers, vocational rehabilitation, and work incentives. Contact your local social services office for more information.
It can take several months to get a decision on your application. Social Security may ask for more information or schedule a medical exam. You can check the status of your application online or by phone.
