If you have bipolar disorder in Vermont, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, Medicaid, and food help. Vermont does not have a state disability program, but federal rules make it easier for people with disabilities to get help. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
If you have bipolar disorder, you may qualify for federal disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers two main programs: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSI is for people with limited income and resources, including those with disabilities. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid into Social Security. To qualify, your condition must meet SSA’s definition of disability and last at least 12 months. You must also meet income and resource limits for SSI, but SSDI is based on your work history. Both programs are available in Vermont.
For SSI, you must have little or no income and few resources. The value of what you own must be less than $2,000 if you are single or $3,000 for married couples. Your home and one car usually do not count. For SSDI, there is no resource limit, but you must have enough work credits. Both programs require you to live in the U.S. and be a citizen or legal resident.
Source: SSA SSI in Vermont, 2025
Vermont does not have a state disability program. Only five states do. Vermonters with bipolar disorder must apply for federal programs like SSI and SSDI. There are no state-specific disability benefits, but Vermont does offer other help, such as Medicaid and 3SquaresVT (food assistance). If you get federal disability benefits, you may also qualify for these programs. Vermont makes it easier for people with disabilities to get 3SquaresVT. If everyone in your household gets disability benefits, you may not have to meet income or resource limits. You may also get a higher monthly benefit if you have out-of-pocket medical costs.
Source: Vermont Food Help, 2025, Atticus Vermont Disability Benefits, 2025
Source: SSA SSI in Vermont, 2025, Atticus Vermont Disability Benefits, 2025
Source: SSA SSI in Vermont, 2025, Atticus Vermont Disability Benefits, 2025
Vermont does not have a state disability program. Only five states do. Vermonters with bipolar disorder must apply for federal programs. However, Vermont offers other help:
Source: Vermont Food Help, 2025, VTLawHelp.org, 2025 State-specific information is limited; start here: VTLawHelp.org, Vermont Food Help
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can use the money for housing, education, transportation, and more. Vermont has its own ABLE program. You can open an account online or through a financial institution.
Source: ABLE National Resource Center
For SSI, the resource limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. Your home and one car usually do not count. For SSDI, there is no resource limit, but you must have enough work credits. Income from work may affect your benefits. Report changes to avoid overpayments.
Source: SSA SSI in Vermont, 2025
If your income or health changes, report it to the SSA. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you get an overpayment, you may have to pay it back. You can ask for a waiver if you cannot afford to pay.
Source: SSA SSI in Vermont, 2025 Internal Link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes Internal Link: SSI & SSDI Work Incentives
Most people in Vermont are denied at first. If denied, appeal within 60 days. Get help from Legal Services Vermont if needed.
If you have out-of-pocket medical costs, you may get a higher monthly 3SquaresVT benefit. Keep records of all medical expenses.
Yes, if your bipolar disorder meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability and lasts at least 12 months. You must apply for SSI or SSDI. Vermont does not have a state disability program.
The average SSI payment in Vermont is $619.75 per month. The average SSDI payment is $1,279.63 per month. Your payment depends on your income and work history.
If everyone in your household gets disability benefits, you may not have to meet income or resource limits for 3SquaresVT. You may also get a higher monthly benefit if you have out-of-pocket medical costs.
You need records that show your diagnosis, treatment, and how bipolar disorder affects your daily life. Include notes from doctors, therapists, and hospitals.
It takes an average of 6.1 months to get an initial decision in Vermont. Most people are denied at first and need to appeal. The full process can take up to two years.
Yes, but your income may affect your benefits. There are work incentives that let you keep some benefits while you work. Report changes to avoid overpayments.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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You can appeal within 60 days. Most people in Vermont are denied at first. You may need to go to a hearing. Get help from Legal Services Vermont if needed.
Yes, Legal Services Vermont can help you with appeals and complaints. The Vermont Communication Support Project can help you in court or administrative hearings.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. Vermont has its own ABLE program. You can open an account online or through a financial institution.
Yes, you must report changes to the SSA. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person.
