Social Security Disability for Mental Illness

Discuss Your Case with Our Social Security Disability Lawyers in Plano Today

While it is possible to obtain Social Security disability for a mental illness, the process of recovering your Social Security Disability Insurance benefits can be daunting. These types of Social Security disability claims tend to be especially challenging due to the intangible nature of mental illness; proving that your condition is disabling according to the Social Security Administration's standards can be very difficult without the right legal team on your side.

At Coats & Todd, we have over 60 years of combined experience in this particular area of law. In fact, Social Security disability issues are the only types of cases we handle. This dedicated focus allows us to pour all of our resources, experience, and efforts into helping individuals obtain the Social Security disability benefits they need and are owed. We understand the unique challenges you face in seeking Social Security disability for mental illness, and we know how to help you navigate the process.

For personalized legal representation and caring support, contact our Plano Social Security disability lawyers online or at 972-671-9922 today. Your initial case evaluation is completely free and confidential.

How Do I Know If My Mental Illness Qualifies for SSDI?

In order to have a mental illness qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance, it will need to meet the same impairment listing standards as any physical injury. Impairment listing standards are set by the Social Security Administration.

When determining whether a mental illness or condition qualifies for Social Security disability, the Social Security Administration will carefully review the following:

• If/how the illness or condition affects the individual's ability to work
• If the individual is able to work in any capacity (including at alternative and light duty employment)
• The expected length of the mental illness/condition

In order to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, you must also meet all other eligibility requirements, including having earned enough work credits and paid Social Security taxes (among others). If you do NOT qualify for SSDI, you may be eligible to receive Supplemental Security Income. In order to qualify for SSI, you will still need to prove that you mental illness or condition prevents you from being able to work, but you do not need to have earned a certain number of work credits or have paid Social Security taxes. That being said, however, there are additional eligibility requirements you must meet, including low-income standards and more.

What Types of Mental Illnesses Are Covered by Social Security Disability?

Again, the Social Security Administration doesn't look at particular mental illnesses and conditions so much as how those conditions affect the person's ability to work. Therefore, there are no specific mental illnesses that are "covered" by Social Security disability.

That being said, people with the following conditions may be able to obtain Social Security Disability Insurance benefits:

• Schizophrenia
• Alzheimer's
• Autism
• Bipolar disorder
• Depression
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Borderline personality disorder
• Anxiety disorders
• Personality disorders
• Intellectual disabilities

If you are seeking Social Security disability for a mental illness or condition, it's important that you work with an attorney who has experience handling these types of claims. An attorney from Coats & Todd can not only guide you through the process but can also assist you in making sure your claim is properly filed, requesting an appeal if your claim is denied, and navigating any legal challenge that may arise.

Schedule a Free Case Evaluation Today

At Coats & Todd, we are committed to helping individuals with disabling physical and mental conditions navigate the complex and often challenging process of securing Social Security disability benefits and/or Supplemental Security Income. We understand just how important this is for you and your future, which is why we work tirelessly on your behalf. Along the way, we are available to answer your questions, address your concerns, and protect your legal rights. We have successfully handled thousands of Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income claims; learn how we can help you, too.

Contact us at 972-671-9922 to request a complimentary case evaluation. Se habla Español.