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New York • Mental Health
If you have Bipolar Disorder in New York, you may qualify for federal and state benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and work supports. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with Bipolar Disorder, your condition must meet Social Security's definition of disability. This means your symptoms must be severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months. You must also have enough work credits for SSDI, or low income and resources for SSI. Social Security reviews medical records, work history, and how your symptoms affect daily life. If approved, you can get monthly payments and access to Medicaid or Medicare.
Source: Social Security Administration
In New York, people with Bipolar Disorder may qualify for Medicaid, Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers, and other state programs. To get Medicaid, you must meet income and disability rules. HCBS waivers help people live at home instead of in institutions. New York also offers ABLE accounts for saving without losing benefits. You may need to apply separately for each program and provide medical proof of your disability. Local offices can help with applications and questions.
Source: Social Security Administration Source: New York State Department of Health
Source: Social Security Administration
Source: New York State Office of Mental Health Source: New York State Department of Health
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for disability-related expenses like therapy, education, and housing. New York offers ABLE accounts through the state. To open one, visit the official ABLE website or contact your local office.
Income limits for SSI and Medicaid vary by program and household size. For SSI, the federal limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. Medicaid limits depend on your situation and may be higher for people with disabilities. Check with your local office for exact numbers.
Source: Social Security Administration
You must report changes in income, address, or health to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes as soon as possible to keep your benefits. Contact Social Security or your local office for help.
Contact your local Social Security office or the New York State Office of Mental Health for help with applications and questions.
Yes, if your Bipolar Disorder is severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must provide medical proof and meet income or work credit rules.
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a local Social Security office. You will need medical records and proof of income.
Medicaid is health coverage for people with low income and disabilities. You can apply online or at a local office. You must meet income and disability rules.
HCBS waivers help people with disabilities live at home instead of in institutions. You can apply through the New York State Department of Health. You must meet eligibility rules.
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. You can open one through the New York ABLE Program website or by contacting your local office.
You must report changes in income, address, or health as soon as possible. Contact Social Security or your local office to avoid overpayments.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official sources for the most current rules and eligibility.
New York offers therapy, counseling, and support groups through the Office of Mental Health. You can also get help with housing and employment.
Yes, there are work incentives that let you try working without losing benefits. Social Security and New York have programs to help you keep benefits while you work.
If your claim is denied, you can appeal. Ask for help from a local office or nonprofit. You may need to provide more medical proof.
It can take several months to get a decision. You may get benefits sooner if your case is urgent. Follow up on your application and keep copies of all documents.
