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Vermont • Mental Health
If you have an anxiety disorder in Vermont, you may qualify for federal disability programs like SSI and SSDI, as well as food and medical benefits. Vermont does not have a state disability program, but residents can access federal and local support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
If you have an anxiety disorder that severely limits your ability to work or live independently, you may qualify for federal disability benefits. The two main programs are Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSI is for people with limited income and resources, including those with anxiety disorders. SSDI is for those who have worked and paid into Social Security. Both programs require medical proof that your anxiety disorder meets federal criteria for disability.
To qualify, your condition must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. You must also be unable to do substantial gainful activity (SGA). The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your medical records, work history, and daily functioning.
SSI and SSDI have different income and resource limits. SSI is stricter, while SSDI is based on your work credits. Both programs can help cover basic needs and medical costs.
Vermont does not have a state disability program for residents with anxiety disorders. All disability benefits are federal, such as SSI and SSDI. However, Vermonters with disabilities, including anxiety disorders, can access special rules for food assistance through 3SquaresVT (SNAP). If everyone in your household receives disability benefits, you may not have to meet income or resource limits for 3SquaresVT.
Vermont also offers Medicaid and Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities. These programs can help pay for therapy, medications, and other supports. You may also qualify for paid family and medical leave through Vermont’s new voluntary program, which starts in 2025.
Source: SSA.gov, 2025 Source: Vermont Food Help, 2025 Source: VTLawHelp.org, 2025
Vermont does not have a state disability program for people with anxiety disorders. However, Vermonters can access federal programs and state-specific supports:
Source: Vermont Food Help, 2025 Source: LiDAC, 2025 Source: VTLawHelp.org, 2025
ABLE accounts let Vermonters with anxiety disorders save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for housing, education, transportation, and more. To open an account, you must have a qualifying disability and meet federal requirements. Vermont’s ABLE program is run by the state treasurer.
Source: ABLE National Resource Center, 2025
SSI has strict income and resource limits. For 2025, the resource limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. SSDI is based on your work history and earnings, not income or resources. 3SquaresVT may not have income or resource limits if everyone in your household gets disability benefits.
Source: SSA.gov, 2025 Source: Vermont Food Help, 2025
If your income, health, or living situation changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to fines or loss of benefits. Report changes to Social Security, Medicaid, and 3SquaresVT as soon as possible. Keep records of all reports and decisions.
Contact Legal Services Vermont at 1-800-889-2047 for free help with disability applications and appeals.
If you have trouble communicating in court or hearings, call the Vermont Communication Support Project at 1-888-686-8277.
Yes, if your anxiety disorder is severe and meets federal disability criteria, you can apply for SSI in Vermont. You must have limited income and resources, and your condition must last at least 12 months.
No, Vermont does not have a state disability program. Residents must apply for federal programs like SSI and SSDI for disability benefits.
Apply for 3SquaresVT online or by phone. If you get disability benefits, you may not need to meet income or resource limits for food assistance.
Yes, if you have an anxiety disorder and meet income and disability requirements, you can get Medicaid in Vermont. Medicaid can cover therapy, medications, and other supports.
An ABLE account lets you save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. Vermont offers ABLE accounts to residents who meet federal requirements.
It usually takes about 6 months to get an initial decision on disability in Vermont. Most people are denied at first and must appeal, which can take up to 2 years.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check official sources for the most current rules and eligibility.
Yes, SSI and SSDI have work incentives that let you try working without losing benefits. Report any changes in income to avoid overpayments.
If your application is denied, you can appeal. Most people need to appeal and go to a hearing. Contact Legal Services Vermont for help with appeals.
You don’t need a lawyer, but legal help can improve your chances. Legal Services Vermont offers free help with applications and appeals.
Vermont’s new paid family and medical leave program starts in 2025. It will offer paid leave for medical reasons, including anxiety disorders, for most workers.
