Can You Get SSI for Bipolar Disorder?

Many people are familiar with SSI as supplemental income for people with physical disabilities or physical conditions that limit mobility and the ability to work. What many sufferers of mental disabilities do not realize is that disorders such as clinical depression, dementia and bipolar disorder may also qualify individuals for SSI benefits.

Bipolar disorder is a manageable illness that does not ordinarily impair the sufferer's ability to work. But there are exceptions.

SSI

• Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, provides supplemental income for those with disabling diseases or mental disorders. Eligibility for SSI indicates that an individual may also qualify for medical coverage through the Medicaid program. According to the Bipolar Disorders Center, benefits as of 2009 typically range from $300 to $600 a month.

Bipolar Disorder

• Bipolar Disorder is a mood disorder characterized by extreme "highs" and "lows" in mood. This disorder used to be known as manic depressive disorder. Sufferers have mood swings that range, sometimes quite frequently, between depression and mania.

  Depression is characterized by feelings of hopelessness, constant fatigue, crying spells, and overwhelming sadness. Mania is characterized by feelings of invincibility, hyperactivity, and unusually high sociability. These symptoms can range from being somewhat disruptive to debilitating.

Qualifying

• Bipolar disorder is a mental disability that can be debilitating in some instances. It therefore can qualify a person for disability benefits. For a disability to qualify for SSI the sufferer must be so debilitated by the condition that they are unable to maintain gainful employment. The Social Security Administration says it is the responsibility of the applicant to prove inability to work.

Applying

• SSI can be applied for at a local Social Security office. Another way to apply for SSI benefits is by calling the toll free number 1-800-772-1213 to make an appointment. Some documentation will be necessary to prove eligibility including income verification, verification of age, Social Security card, proof of citizenship, and proof of address. Proof of a qualifying disability will need to be supplied before any benefits will be paid.

  Anyone can apply for SSI benefits, though not everyone will be eligible. The application process is free.

Considerations

• As of 1981, college students are not eligible for SSI benefits. Students in grades one through 12 may still qualify.

  Applicants who are denied benefits are entitled to an appeal process. Applicants have the right to obtain copies of the information included in their SSI files.