Disability Benefits for Anxiety: SSDI vs. SSI

There are two primary programs through which you can receive disability benefits: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

• SSDI: This program is for individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes over the years. The amount of your SSDI check depends on your average lifetime earnings and how much you’ve paid into the Social Security system.
• SSI: This is a needs-based program for individuals who are disabled and have limited income and resources. SSI benefits are typically lower than SSDI benefits and depend on your income, resources, and living situation.

How Much Will Your SSDI Check Be for Anxiety?

For SSDI, the amount you receive each month is based on your average indexed monthly earnings (AIME), which is calculated from your work history and contributions to Social Security. The more you’ve earned and paid into the system, the higher your SSDI benefits will be.

• Average SSDI Benefits: In 2025, the average SSDI payment is around $1,400 per month. However, some people receive more, and others may receive less. The maximum SSDI payment in 2025 can be as high as $3,627 per month for individuals with a very high work history and earnings.
• How Anxiety Affects Your SSDI Claim: To qualify for SSDI with anxiety, your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months or result in death. The SSA evaluates your mental health condition using the Listing of Impairments, which includes guidelines for anxiety-related disorders. You must show that your anxiety severely limits your ability to function in a work environment (e.g., difficulty concentrating, severe panic attacks, or an inability to leave your home).

The SSA may approve your claim for anxiety if you can provide detailed medical evidence of your condition, including diagnoses, treatment history, and how anxiety affects your daily life and ability to work.

How Much Will Your SSI Check Be for Anxiety?

For SSI, the benefit amount is determined by the federal government, but it can vary based on your state. As of 2025:

• Federal SSI Payment: The federal payment for SSI is $914 per month for an individual and $1,371 per month for a couple.
• State Supplementation: Some states offer additional payments to SSI recipients, which can increase the total amount you receive. These state supplements can vary widely depending on where you live.

To qualify for SSI, you must meet financial need criteria. Your income and resources must be below certain limits, which for an individual are typically around $2,000 in resources. If you have more than this, you may not qualify for SSI, unless you have specific exclusions (e.g., your primary home or car).

Factors Affecting Your Disability Check Amount

Several factors can influence how much you receive in disability benefits for anxiety:

• Work History (for SSDI): If you’ve worked for many years and paid substantial taxes into Social Security, your SSDI check could be higher. The SSA uses your earnings record to calculate your monthly benefit.
• Other Sources of Income: If you have additional income, such as a spouse’s income, rental income, or retirement benefits, this could affect your SSI eligibility or the amount you receive.
• Living Situation: If you live in a state with additional SSI supplements, this may increase the amount you receive. Your living arrangements (e.g., if you live with family or in a nursing home) can also affect your SSI benefits.

How to Apply for Disability Benefits for Anxiety

If your anxiety is severe enough to prevent you from working, you may qualify for disability benefits. Here’s how to start the application process:

• Gather Medical Documentation: You’ll need to provide detailed evidence of your anxiety condition, including medical records, treatment history, and statements from your doctors. Be prepared to show how your anxiety prevents you from maintaining a job.
• Apply Online: The easiest way to apply for SSDI is through the SSA’s online portal at www.ssa.gov.
• Consider a Disability Attorney: If you’re unsure about the application process or if you’ve been denied before, it may be helpful to consult with a disability attorney or advocate who can assist with your claim and improve your chances of approval.

What to Do If Your Disability Claim for Anxiety Is Denied

It’s common for disability claims to be denied, especially for mental health conditions like anxiety. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. The appeal process can involve several steps, including:

• Requesting Reconsideration: This involves asking the SSA to review your case again with any additional medical evidence or documentation.
• Requesting a Hearing: If reconsideration doesn’t work, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), where you’ll have the opportunity to present your case in person.
• Appeals Council: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can ask the SSA’s Appeals Council to review your case.