Step 1: Understand the Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a disability check, you need to meet the eligibility criteria for SSDI or SSI:

• SSDI: You must have a sufficient work history, meaning you’ve worked and paid into the Social Security system for a certain number of years. The number of work credits you need depends on your age when you become disabled.
• SSI: SSI is a needs-based program for individuals with limited income and few resources. SSI does not require a work history, so if you haven’t worked enough to qualify for SSDI, you may still be eligible for SSI if you meet financial qualifications.

Step 2: Meet the SSA’s Definition of Disability for Mental Illness

The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates disability claims based on a medical definition of disability. To qualify for benefits with a mental illness, your condition must meet the SSA’s criteria for mental disorders under the Listing of Impairments.

The SSA lists several mental health conditions that may qualify for Social Security Disability, including:

• Depressive disorders (e.g., major depression, bipolar disorder)
• Anxiety disorders (e.g., generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder)
• Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders
• Intellectual disorders
• Autism spectrum disorders
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

To meet SSA’s criteria for disability due to mental illness, your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from working and must have lasted or be expected to last for at least 12 months.

The SSA will evaluate your disability using a five-step process that includes:

• Whether you are working and earning above the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level.
• Whether your condition is severe enough to limit your ability to perform basic work tasks.
• Whether your condition matches one of the impairments listed in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments.
• Whether you can perform your previous work.
• Whether you can perform any other type of work based on your age, education, and work experience.

Step 3: Gather the Necessary Documentation

To strengthen your application, you’ll need to provide medical evidence that supports your claim of mental illness. The SSA requires detailed documentation of your condition, so make sure to:

• Visit your doctor regularly: Consistent treatment, including medication, therapy, and other interventions, will help document the severity of your condition.
• Obtain detailed medical records: Your medical records should include information on your diagnoses, treatment history, and how your condition affects your ability to function. Include records from mental health professionals like psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists.
• Provide letters from healthcare providers: A letter from your doctor or therapist explaining how your mental illness limits your ability to work can strengthen your case. The more specific and detailed the letter, the better.
• Include records of hospitalizations: If you’ve been hospitalized for mental health issues, make sure those records are included in your application.
• Provide evidence of how your condition affects daily life: The SSA will want to know how your mental illness impacts your daily activities, such as maintaining relationships, caring for yourself, and managing responsibilities.

Step 4: Apply for SSDI or SSI

Once you have gathered the necessary documentation, you can begin the application process. There are several ways to apply:

• Online: The easiest way to apply for SSDI or SSI is through the SSA’s website at www.ssa.gov.
• By Phone: You can apply by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. A representative will guide you through the application process.
• In Person: You can apply at your local Social Security office, but you’ll need to schedule an appointment first.

When applying, be sure to:

• Provide accurate and complete information about your mental illness, treatment, and how it affects your ability to work.
• Be honest and detailed about your symptoms, limitations, and how your condition affects your daily life.

Step 5: Be Prepared for a Possible Denial

It’s common for Social Security Disability claims to be denied, even for those with severe mental illness. If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.

The appeals process involves several steps:

• Reconsideration: You can request the SSA to review your claim again.
• Hearing: If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). At this stage, you can present additional evidence or testimony to support your case.
• Appeals Council: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review by the SSA’s Appeals Council.