People with Bipolar Disorder in Wisconsin can get help with income, health care, and daily living through federal and state programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with Bipolar Disorder, you must meet Social Security's definition of disability. This means your condition must be severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months and must meet the criteria in the Social Security Blue Book (Listing 12.04 for Bipolar Disorder). You must also have worked enough to earn Social Security credits for SSDI, or have low income and resources for SSI. Both programs require medical proof and regular updates on your condition [9].
In Wisconsin, people with Bipolar Disorder can get help from several state programs. The main programs are Medicaid, Family Care, IRIS, and the Medicaid Purchase Plan. To qualify, you must be between 18 and 59, have a qualifying disability, and meet income and resource limits. Some programs also require a functional need for support. Wisconsin uses the federal definition of disability for most programs, but some state programs may have additional criteria. You can get help from Disability Benefits Specialists at your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) to determine your eligibility [1, 4, 8].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Wisconsin, you can open an ABLE account through the state's program. The account can be used for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and transportation. There are annual and lifetime contribution limits, and the account grows tax-free. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one in Wisconsin [internal_links].
If you get too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. This is called an overpayment. To avoid overpayments, report changes in income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and Wisconsin agencies right away. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you get an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a payment plan. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes [internal_links].
Disability Benefits Specialists at ADRCs can help you understand your options, fill out applications, and appeal if needed. Contact your local ADRC for support.
Yes, if your Bipolar Disorder is severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months and you meet the criteria for SSDI or SSI. You must also meet Wisconsin's eligibility rules for state programs.
Contact your local ADRC for help. Gather medical records and apply for SSDI, SSI, and Medicaid online, by phone, or in person. Disability Benefits Specialists can help you with the process.
SSI is for people with low income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for people who have worked and earned enough Social Security credits. Both provide monthly payments for people with disabilities.
Yes, but there are limits. If you earn more than the substantial gainful activity limit, your benefits may be reduced or stopped. Work incentives can help you keep benefits while you try to work.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. You can save money for qualified expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and Wisconsin agencies right away. This helps prevent overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate.
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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Disability Benefits Specialists help people with disabilities understand and apply for benefits, including Medicaid, SSI, SSDI, Medicare, and more. They can also help with appeals and reporting changes.
Wisconsin offers Medicaid, Family Care, IRIS, the Medicaid Purchase Plan, and Disability Benefits Specialists. These programs help with health care, long-term care, and daily living support.
Contact your local ADRC or Disability Benefits Specialist. They can help you fill out forms, understand eligibility, and appeal if needed.
If your application is denied, you can appeal. Disability Benefits Specialists can help you with the appeal process and provide support.
