Mental Disability Benefits in Michigan

If you are living with a mental health condition, you know how difficult it can be to perform daily activities. Although other people may think you are managing well, the reality is that some days are especially difficult. When your condition starts to interfere with your ability to do your job, you may be eligible to apply for governmental financial assistance.

At Thurswell Law, our SSDI attorneys could help you understand your rights regarding mental disability benefits in Michigan. Unfortunately, unlike physical disabilities, mental conditions are often harder to prove, and many applicants receive an initial denial. Experienced legal help could make a significant difference in the success of your application.

Which Mental Health Conditions Are Covered by Social Security?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provides financial assistance to people who have worked for a sufficient period but can no longer work because of a disabling condition. While many people think the program covers only physical impairments such as paralysis or respiratory illness, it also covers mental disorders. The SSA classifies these conditions into categories such as neurocognitive, psychotic, trauma-related, and anxiety disorders.

Common covered conditions include:

Alzheimer’s and dementia
Traumatic brain injuries
Schizophrenia
Bipolar depression
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder

SSDI also covers less common conditions such as anorexia, autism, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

In Michigan, a claim for SSDI benefits based on a mental health condition must meet the same criteria as a claim based on a physical disability. Specifically, the condition must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death, and it must significantly affect the person’s ability to work. Additionally, the applicant must have worked and paid into the Social Security system for a sufficient period to be eligible.

Additional Sponsored Benefits

SSDI is not the only option for people with disabilities who cannot work. Michigan’s State Disability Assistance (SDA) program could provide financial assistance for people with mental health conditions alongside the federal program. People already receiving SSDI benefits for a disability, including those based on mental health conditions, may automatically qualify for Michigan’s SDA. Even people who do not receive federal disability benefits may still be eligible if they obtain a medical certification proving that their condition prevents them from working for more than 90 days.

However, applicants must meet strict requirements to receive SDA benefits, such as residing in Michigan and not receiving assistance from any other state. The program also imposes an asset limit based on the combined value of the applicant’s cash and other property, such as bank accounts, investments, and trusts. The program limits real estate holdings to $200,000.

Unlike SSDI, applying for SDA benefits is a faster process. The SSA can take six months or longer to review and approve an application, but the SDA must approve or deny an application within 60 days.

Contact Our Mental Disability Attorneys in Michigan About Your Benefits Claim

Since 1968, Thurswell Law has been helping injured and disabled clients achieve the benefits they need. Experience gets results. Whether you are applying for mental disability benefits in Michigan or appealing a denied claim, our lawyers could guide you through the process.