Panic Disorder Benefits in Pennsylvania

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a significant work history and paid Social Security taxes. You need enough work credits, which depend on your age. Your Panic Disorder must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you do not need a work history. Instead, you must have limited income and resources, and your Panic Disorder must meet Social Security’s definition of disability. Both programs require medical proof that your condition stops you from working 1, 2, 6.

In Pennsylvania, Panic Disorder is considered a disability if it meets federal criteria. You must show that your symptoms are severe and long-lasting, affecting your ability to work or do daily activities. SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medical Assistance (Medicaid), which covers healthcare. SSDI recipients get Medicare after a 24-month waiting period. Pennsylvania also offers Medical Assistance for Workers with Disabilities (MAWD), which has higher income limits and is designed for people who want to work but still need health coverage. You must provide medical documentation from a licensed provider to prove your Panic Disorder diagnosis and its impact 1, 2, 4.

1. Gather medical records and proof of income.
2. Decide if you need SSI (low income) or SSDI (work history).
3. Apply online at ssa.gov or at your local Social Security office.
4. Submit proof of Panic Disorder and how it affects your work.
5. Wait for a decision from the Bureau of Disability Determination Services.
6. If approved, you may get benefits and Medicaid or Medicare 1, 2.

• Step 1: Collect medical records from your doctor or therapist that detail your Panic Disorder diagnosis, symptoms, and how it limits your ability to work or do daily activities.
• Step 2: Decide which program fits you: SSI (if you have low income and assets) or SSDI (if you have a work history and paid Social Security taxes).
• Step 3: Apply online at the Social Security Administration website or visit your local Social Security office. You can also apply by phone or mail.
• Step 4: Submit all required documents, including proof of identity, income, assets, and medical evidence.
• Step 5: The Bureau of Disability Determination Services (BDD) will review your medical eligibility. They may ask for more information or schedule a consultative exam.
• Step 6: Wait for a decision. If approved, you will receive benefits and may qualify for Medicaid (if on SSI) or Medicare (if on SSDI after 24 months).
• Step 7: Report any changes in your income, work, or health to avoid overpayments 1, 2, 6.

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For those with a work history. No income or asset limits. Average monthly benefit is $1,537 in 2025, with a maximum of $3,822. Family members may also get benefits.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For those with low income and assets. Maximum monthly benefit is $943 for individuals in 2025. No family benefits. Automatic Medicaid eligibility in Pennsylvania.
• Medicare: Available to SSDI recipients after 24 months.
• Medicaid: Automatic for SSI recipients in Pennsylvania.
• ABLE Accounts: Tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities onset before age 26 (expanding to 46 in 2026) 1, 5.

• Medical Assistance for Workers with Disabilities (MAWD): PA’s Medicaid program for people with disabilities who want to work. Higher income and asset limits than regular Medicaid. You pay a 5% premium based on your income. You can apply in person, online, by phone, or by mail. You must prove work and disability, such as with an SSDI award letter or a doctor’s note 4.
• Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Pennsylvania offers home and community-based services for people with disabilities who need long-term care. These waivers help you get support at home instead of in an institution 7.
• SNAP (Food Stamps): People receiving SSI or SSDI are not subject to work requirements for SNAP, making it easier to get food assistance 3.

ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and transportation. In Pennsylvania, you can open an ABLE account if your disability started before age 26 (this will expand to age 46 in 2026). Contributions grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free 5.

• SSDI: No income or asset limits.
• SSI: $943/month for individuals, $1,415/month for couples in 2025. Asset limit is $2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples.
• MAWD: Higher income and asset limits than regular Medicaid. You pay a 5% premium based on your income 1, 4.

You must report changes in your income, work, or health to Social Security and your state agency. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. If you get too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Always keep records of your reports and updates 1.

• Pennsylvania Department of Human Services
  Phone: 1-800-692-7462

  TTY: 1-800-451-5886

  Email: [email protected]

  Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday - Friday

  Website

  For help with Medicaid, SNAP, and other state benefits.
• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Email: ssa.gov/contact

  Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Monday - Friday

  Website

  For help with SSI, SSDI, and ABLE accounts.

• Can Panic Disorder qualify for disability in Pennsylvania?

  Yes, Panic Disorder can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months. You must provide medical proof from a licensed provider [1](https://www.disabilityresources.org/pennsylvania-disability-benefits.html), [2](https://www.pa.gov/services/dli/apply-for-a-social-security-disability-determination).

• What is the difference between SSI and SSDI for Panic Disorder?

  SSI is for people with low income and assets, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those with a work history and paid Social Security taxes. Both require medical proof of disability [1](https://www.disabilityresources.org/pennsylvania-disability-benefits.html).

• How do I apply for disability benefits for Panic Disorder in PA?

  Gather medical records, decide if you need SSI or SSDI, and apply online, by phone, or in person at Social Security. Submit all required documents and wait for a decision [2](https://www.pa.gov/services/dli/apply-for-a-social-security-disability-determination).

• Does Pennsylvania offer Medicaid for people with Panic Disorder?

  Yes, SSI recipients automatically get Medicaid (Medical Assistance) in Pennsylvania. SSDI recipients get Medicare after 24 months. MAWD is also available for workers with disabilities [1](https://www.disabilityresources.org/pennsylvania-disability-benefits.html), [4](https://www.phlp.org/uploads/attachments/cmevf5aioeas92fu89e5ckmqa-mawd-guide-2025.pdf).

• Can I work while getting disability benefits for Panic Disorder?

  Yes, SSDI recipients can earn up to $1,550 monthly during a trial work period without losing benefits. SSI recipients can work but face benefit reductions. MAWD also supports working with disabilities [1](https://www.disabilityresources.org/pennsylvania-disability-benefits.html), [4](https://www.phlp.org/uploads/attachments/cmevf5aioeas92fu89e5ckmqa-mawd-guide-2025.pdf).