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Ohio • Mental Health
If you have depression that limits your ability to work, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Ohio. These programs provide monthly payments and access to Medicaid or Medicare. Ohio also offers extra support through county boards, work incentives, and legal advocacy.
To qualify for Social Security disability benefits for depression, your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a medical guide called the Blue Book. Depression is listed under Section 12.04, which requires symptoms such as persistent sadness, loss of interest, sleep problems, and difficulty concentrating. You must also show that your depression limits your ability to work, interact with others, or complete tasks. You need to provide medical records, treatment history, and sometimes a mental health evaluation. If you meet these criteria, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI, depending on your work history and income [^1].
In Ohio, the Division of Disability Determination (DDD) works with the SSA to review your medical records and decide if you meet the federal criteria for disability benefits. Ohio does not have a separate state disability program for adults, but county boards of developmental disabilities can help people with mental health conditions access services and supports. If you are approved for SSDI or SSI, you may also qualify for Medicaid or Medicare. Ohio also offers work incentives and legal advocacy through programs like the Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) and Disability Rights Ohio [^2][^3][^4].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Ohio residents with depression that began before age 26 may qualify. You can save up to $16,000 per year (2025 limit) and use the funds for qualified disability expenses. Learn more at Ohio ABLE or SSA.gov [^4].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to the SSA. Failure to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. Ohio offers resources to help you understand and report changes, including legal advocacy and benefits counseling [^4].
Contact your local county board of developmental disabilities or Disability Rights Ohio for free help with your application and appeals.
Yes, if your depression is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months and meets the SSA's medical criteria. You must provide medical records and treatment history to prove your condition.
Start by gathering medical records and treatment history. Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local SSA office. The Ohio Division of Disability Determination will review your application.
You need records from mental health professionals, including diagnosis, treatment plan, medications, therapy notes, and how depression affects your daily life and ability to work.
Yes, Ohio offers work incentives like the Ticket to Work program. These programs help you work while keeping benefits, and you can earn up to $1,620 per month (2025 limit) without losing SSDI.
Ohio county boards provide service planning and coordination. You may also qualify for Medicaid, Medicare, and legal advocacy through Disability Rights Ohio.
It can take 3 to 6 months to get a decision. If denied, you can appeal within 60 days. Ohio offers help with appeals through legal advocacy programs.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult official government sources for the most current eligibility and application details.
Yes, if you receive SSI or have low income, you may qualify for Medicaid. If you receive SSDI, you can get Medicare after a 24-month waiting period.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. Ohio residents with depression that began before age 26 may qualify. You can save up to $16,000 per year (2025 limit).
You can appeal within 60 days. Ohio offers legal advocacy and benefits counseling to help you with the appeals process.
Report changes in income or living situation to the SSA. Ohio offers resources to help you understand and report changes, including legal advocacy and benefits counseling.
