Understanding the Disability Payment Process for Depression

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) vs. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

There are two main programs that provide disability benefits: SSDI and SSI. The program that you qualify for will determine how much you are paid.

• SSDI: To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked and paid into Social Security for a certain number of years. The amount you receive through SSDI is based on your average lifetime earnings. In 2025, the average SSDI benefit for a disabled worker is about $1,500 per month, but this amount can vary depending on your work history.
• SSI: SSI is a need-based program for individuals with limited income and resources. It is not based on your work history but rather your financial need. In 2025, the federal base SSI payment is $914 per month for an individual, with a higher amount if you live in a state that supplements SSI payments.

How Much Will You Receive for Depression?

The amount of money you can receive for depression through SSDI or SSI depends on a variety of factors, including the severity of your condition and your work history. Here’s how it breaks down:

• SSDI Benefits: If you qualify for SSDI, your payment amount will be based on your earnings record. Generally, the more you’ve worked and paid into Social Security, the higher your benefit will be. SSDI benefits can range from a few hundred dollars to over $2,000 per month, depending on your earnings prior to becoming disabled.
• SSI Benefits: If you qualify for SSI, your payment will generally be lower since it is based on financial need. For 2025, the federal SSI payment is $914 per month, but this could be higher if your state provides additional benefits or if you qualify for certain exclusions, like living expenses paid by others.

Meeting the SSA’s Criteria for Depression

To qualify for disability benefits for depression, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) criteria for mental health disorders. The SSA evaluates whether your depression severely limits your ability to function in your daily life, particularly in areas like:

• Social functioning: Difficulty interacting with others, maintaining relationships, or being part of a social setting.
• Concentration and task completion: The inability to focus on or complete tasks due to your depression.
• Adjusting to change: Problems coping with changes in your routine or environment.
• Physical or emotional limitations: Experiencing extreme fatigue, loss of interest in life, or suicidal thoughts.

To be approved for disability benefits, you must provide sufficient medical evidence, including doctor's notes, therapy records, and any tests or treatments that support your diagnosis of depression.

What Factors Influence Your Monthly Disability Payment?

Several factors influence how much you’ll receive in disability payments:

• Your Work History (for SSDI): If you qualify for SSDI, your benefit amount is based on your lifetime earnings. The higher your earnings, the higher your benefit amount. Your Social Security statement will show your estimated benefit amount.
• Living Situation: If you live in a household where others contribute to your financial support, or if you live in a state that provides additional SSI benefits, your payment could be higher.
• Income and Resources (for SSI): For SSI, the amount you receive will depend on your household income and resources. If you have a spouse or others in your household with a higher income, this may affect your eligibility or the amount you can receive.

How Long Does It Take to Get Approved for Disability for Depression?

The process of applying for disability benefits can take time, especially when applying for mental health conditions like depression. On average, the process can take 3 to 5 months for an initial decision. However, many people experience delays, and it’s not uncommon to face a denial and need to appeal the decision. It can take longer if you need to go through the appeals process, and in some cases, it can take up to a year or more before your case is resolved.

How to Increase Your Chances of Approval for Depression

The key to winning your disability claim for depression is providing sufficient evidence that your condition prevents you from working. Here are some tips to help improve your chances:

• See a Doctor Regularly: Consistent treatment from a psychiatrist, psychologist, or other mental health professionals is crucial. Regular visits help establish a medical record that supports your claim.
• Provide Detailed Medical Records: Ensure that your doctor documents your depression symptoms thoroughly, including how it affects your ability to work, perform daily tasks, and maintain social relationships.
• Complete Your Application Accurately: When filling out your application, be honest and detailed about your condition and how it impacts your life. Include information about your work history, medical treatments, and daily struggles.