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New York • Mental Health
People with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in New York may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and supported employment programs. Eligibility depends on how OCD affects your ability to work and daily life.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, your OCD must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at medical records, how symptoms affect daily tasks, and your ability to work. You must meet income and resource limits for SSI, while SSDI is based on work history and Social Security taxes paid. Both programs require regular reporting of changes in your condition or income.
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New York State offers additional support for people with OCD through Medicaid waivers, vocational rehabilitation, and supported employment programs. The state’s Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers can help pay for services like therapy, supported living, and job coaching. Eligibility for these programs depends on your income, assets, and how OCD affects your daily life. You may also qualify for state-funded mental health services and peer support programs.
Learn more about Medicaid Waivers (HCBS)
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Learn more about SSI & SSDI Work Incentives
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Learn more about Medicaid vs Medicare
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Learn more about Medicaid Waivers (HCBS)
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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 its own ABLE program with tax benefits for state residents.
Learn more about ABLE Accounts
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Federal and state programs have income and resource limits. For SSI, the 2025 federal limit is $943/month for an individual. SSDI has no income limit, but you must not be doing substantial work. Medicaid and state programs have their own limits based on household size and income.
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It’s important to report changes in your condition, income, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to loss of benefits or repayment. Keep records of all changes and report them as soon as possible.
Learn more about Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes
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Contact your local Social Security office or county Department of Social Services for help with applications and questions.
Yes, if your OCD is severe enough to prevent you from working, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You’ll need medical records and proof of how OCD affects your daily life.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is based on work history and Social Security taxes paid. Both require ongoing medical documentation.
You can apply for Medicaid through your county Department of Social Services or online. You’ll need proof of income, assets, and residency.
Medicaid waivers pay for home and community-based services like therapy, supported living, and job coaching for people with disabilities.
Yes, work incentives can help you keep benefits while working. Report any changes in your income or condition to avoid overpayments.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses.
Report changes in your condition, income, or living situation to Social Security or your county Department of Social Services as soon as possible.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Yes, New York offers state-funded mental health services, peer support programs, and vocational rehabilitation for people with mental health conditions.
If you’re denied, you can appeal the decision. Ask for help from a disability advocate or legal aid organization.
The process can take several months. Gather all required documents and follow up regularly to speed up the process.
