Veterans Administration Benefits & Bipolar

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers disability benefits to individuals who develop conditions that result in disability due to military service. Bipolar disorder, a mental illness characterized by depressive and manic phases, is a qualifying disorder for disability benefits.

Eligibility

• You may be eligible for disability benefits if you have bipolar disorder that is a direct result of military service and was discharged under other than dishonorable conditions.

Applying

• Applying for disability benefits requires completing VA Form 21-526 and attaching medical records, including psychological reports documenting bipolar disorder, and discharge paperwork such as the DD214. Contact VA Benefits hotline at 800-827-1000 to inquire about how to obtain this paperwork.

Compensation Rates

• The amount of your disability check varies depending on the severity of your bipolar disorder. Factors such as how much your symptoms impair your ability to maintain employment, complete daily living tasks and achieve education goals, are assessed for determining this percentage.

Beneficiaries

• If you are found to be disabled due to bipolar disorder, VA may pay your spouse and dependent children disability benefits. You will be required to turn in copies of birth certificates for your dependent children and a marriage certificate for your spouse in order for these individuals to receive benefits.

Alternatives

• If you are determined to be ineligible for VA disability, you may consider applying for Social Security disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Contact your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office or go ssa.gov to obtain application instructions.