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New York • Mental Health
People with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in New York may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and work support programs. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and resources for New Yorkers living with PTSD.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI with PTSD, your condition must be severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a list of impairments called the Blue Book. PTSD is listed under Section 12.15, which covers trauma- and stressor-related disorders. You must provide medical records, therapy notes, and evidence of how PTSD affects your daily life and ability to work. If you meet the criteria, you may receive monthly payments and access to Medicaid or Medicare.
For SSI, you must also have limited income and resources. SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. Both programs require regular reporting of changes in your health or finances.
In New York, people with PTSD may qualify for state-specific programs like Medicaid waivers, mental health services, and vocational rehabilitation. The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) offers support for those with serious mental illness, including PTSD. Eligibility for Medicaid waivers depends on income, assets, and the need for long-term care. You may also qualify for services through the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) if PTSD is part of a broader disability profile. New York also provides access to crisis intervention, counseling, and peer support programs for veterans and civilians with PTSD.
Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes
Learn more about SSI & SSDI Work Incentives
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In New York, you can open an ABLE account through the NY ABLE program. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other qualified expenses. Contributions are limited, and there are annual reporting requirements.
Learn more about ABLE Accounts
For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. New York may have higher limits for state supplements. For Medicaid, income limits vary based on household size and program. SSDI payments are based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid.
It is important to report changes in your health, income, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to the Social Security Administration and your state agency as soon as possible.
Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes
Contact your local Social Security office or the NY State Office of Mental Health for help with applications and support.
Yes, PTSD can qualify for federal SSI and SSDI benefits if it meets Social Security criteria. You must provide medical evidence and show that PTSD prevents you from working for at least 12 months.
You need medical records, therapy notes, a diagnosis from a healthcare provider, and evidence of how PTSD affects your daily life and ability to work.
The approval process can take several months. It depends on how quickly you submit documents and whether Social Security needs more information or a consultative exam.
New York offers Medicaid waivers, mental health services, vocational rehabilitation, and peer support programs for people with PTSD. Veterans may also qualify for additional benefits.
Yes, you can work, but there are limits on how much you can earn. Social Security has work incentives to help you keep benefits while you try to work.
You can apply for Medicaid through the NY State of Health Marketplace or your local social services office. You will need to provide proof of income, assets, and disability.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other qualified expenses.
Yes, you must report changes in your health, income, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Report changes to the Social Security Administration and your state agency as soon as possible.
Yes, New York has crisis intervention teams, hotlines, and emergency services for people with PTSD. You can contact the Office of Mental Health or local agencies for help.
Yes, veterans with PTSD may qualify for additional benefits through the VA and New York State, including counseling, housing assistance, and job training.
