How Does The Process Work
You receive a Ticket in the mail. You take this Ticket to any Employment Network or State Vocational Rehabilitation agency , and if you both agree to work together, the EN or VR will help you with job training, finding employers, information about work incentives, materials to send to prospective employers, and other tasks that will help you go to work. Participating in the Ticket to Work program means that youre protected from a Continuing Disability Review based on your potential ability to work.
Contact Our Mckinney Social Security Disability Benefits Attorneys
Showing that bipolar disorder has caused you to be disabled is not always easy. If you are suffering from this type of mental illness, the Law Offices of Coats & Todd can make sure you provide the necessary documentation of your treatment and evidence showing how your ability to work has been affected. We will make sure you take the right steps to receive the Social Security disability benefits you need. Set up a free consultation and case review today by contacting us at 972-671-9922. We provide legal help with benefits for disabilities related to mental health for clients in Dallas County, Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Dallas, Denton, Denton County, Lewisville, Collin County, and Allen.
Does Bipolar Disorder Qualify For Disability Benefits
On Behalf of Disability Rights Law Center | May 4, 2020 | Social Security Disability
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes dramatic shifts in mood. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the disorder affects around 2.8% of Americans 18 years and older. On average, bipolar disorder manifests itself at around age 25, although it can start in early childhood.
Social Security Disability Insurance covers mental disorders, such as bipolar disorder. To qualify for benefits, an individual must work a specified number of years and pay Social Security taxes. In addition, a person must have a disability that the Social Security Administration considers long-term.
Bipolar disorder categories
Bipolar disorder is a category of mental illness that includes three different conditions. The American Psychiatric Associations Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders describes these conditions as:
- Bipolar I: Bipolar I is a manic-depressive disorder that can occur with and without psychotic episodes. Manic episodes must last at least seven days and become severe enough for immediate hospital care.
- Bipolar II: This type of condition has both depressive and hypomanic episodes that alternate and do not usually lead to hospitalization. Hypomania is similar to mania, but less severe.
- Cyclothymic disorder: This is a cyclic disorder that causes only brief periods of mania and depression.
Social Security requirements
Read Also: How Do I Change My Direct Deposit For Va Benefits
Bipolar Disorder & Social Security Disability Eligibility
Bipolar disorder is recognized by the SSA as a disabling condition, but a person applying for SSDI or SSI must still show that their condition is severe enough to qualify them for benefits.
Bipolar disorder is characterized by the SSA as three or more of the following symptoms/behaviors:
- Frantic, rapid speech patterns
- Shifting, disconnected thoughts
- An unrealistic sense of ones worth
- Being easily distracted and unable to focus/concentrate
- Participation in high-risk activities without recognizing the risk
- Engaging in multiple projects at the same time without completing any or making physical movements that serve no purpose
To consider a person with bipolar disorder to be disabled, the SSA requires that the person has a severe limitation of one, or marked limitation of two, of the following:
- Comprehending, recalling, or applying information
- Interacting or working together with other people
- Focusing, persisting, maintaining pace
- Adapting, adjusting, or managing himself or herself
The Pennsylvania BDD will also consider whether your bipolar disorder isserious and persistent. This means you havemedical documentation that it has lasted at least two years, and youve received ongoing medical treatment or therapy but find it extremely difficult to adjust or adapt to changes and new thingsthings that are not already part of our normal routine.
Seeking Legal Counsel For Bipolar Disability Benefits
If youre interested in seeking Social Security Disability for bipolar disorder, it can be challenging to get your application approved. In fact, about two-thirds of all SSDI applications are denied the first time around. About 85% are denied when submitted for reconsideration. Put your interests and future first with the team at Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC. Weve served clients inYork,Lancaster,Hanover,Harrisburg,Carlisle, and throughout Pennsylvania for nearly 100 years. Our unparalleled experience andproven results make our firm a clear choice for your bipolar disorder disability claim.
Lets talk about the ways we can help you. Call today for your free, confidential consultation.
Read Also: What Is The Average Disability Check
Unable To Work With Bipolar Disorder & Mental Rfc
As mentioned before, proving that a mental disorder is truly disabling and prevents an applicant from working is very difficult. One of the best ways to prove to the SSA that an applicants bipolar disorder prevents them from performing unskilled work is to have their treating doctor fill out a mental residual functional capacity.
This form describes what tasks an applicant is capable of in a work environment despite his or her mental disability. Tasks include the ability to concentrate, focus, properly communicate, perform tasks in a timely manner, etc. If your doctor fills out the form and finds the applicant is actually capable of unskilled work, he or she will be denied and vise versa.
Which Disability Benefits For Bipolar Mood Disorder Do I Qualify For
As a worker, you might be eligible for one of two types of disability benefits in Canada. These are the Canada Pension Plan disability benefits and the long-term disability insurance benefits.
CPP disability benefits for bipolar mood disorder
The CPP, designed to support you after retirement, also covers disability benefits that start once you become disabled and last until you are 65. After that, these disability benefits are converted into regular pensions. In order to be eligible for the CPP disability benefits, you have to have worked for four out of the past six years and paid payroll taxes. The CPP requires you to prove that your disability is both prolonged and severe, leaving you unable to work.
Long-term disability insurance benefits for bipolar mood disorder
Group disability insurance policies are the most common type of disability insurances in Canada. If your employer has insured you as part of a group, you are receiving your disability insurance through your job. These group disability insurance policies provide both long-term ad short-term disability benefits. If you are suffering from a bipolar mood disorder, you can apply for the long-term disability benefits if eligible. If successful, these will provide you with monthly income payments during long absences from work to ease the financial pressure weighing you down.
You May Like: What Mental Disorder Did Forrest Gump Have
Does Bipolar Disorder Qualify For Ltd Benefits
Bipolar disorder is among the most difficult mental conditions to deal with. In many cases, those who struggle with bipolar disorder are subject to frequent mood swings between manic and depressive episodes that can make it extremely difficult to simply get through the day. If you are someone with bipolar disorder who believes that you are no longer able to continue working because of it, there is a very good chance that you may qualify for LTD benefits. Please continue reading and speak with our knowledgeable nationwide long term disability attorneys to learn more about how our firm can work to secure the benefits you deserve and need to move on with your life. Here are some of the questions you may have regarding the legal process ahead:
When Will I Receive My First Ltd Payment
Generally, individuals who are awarded LTD benefits will receive them within 90 days of being approved for them. However, there are times where those who are awarded LTD benefits will have to wait much longer than 90 days . Rather obviously, this can be a very stressful situation when someone cannot obtain a paycheck through working. Our team can help expedite the process to ensure that you receive your rightful benefits sooner, rather than later. Give Walker & Hern a call today so we can get started.
Also Check: Where Is The Disability Resource Center Located
Starting A Disability Claim
You can call the SSA at 800-772-1213 to set up an appointment to fill out an application for SSDI or SSI disability benefits, or you can apply online if you’re filing for SSDI benefits only or if you’re applying for SSI and have never applied for SSI in the past and have never been married. When you fill out your disability application, include a detailed description of how your bipolar disorder affects your daily life, your social functioning, and your ability to make decisions, focus, remember information, and complete tasks quickly, and how often you have manic episodes and/or symptoms of depression. If you have both bipolar disorder and a physical impairment that makes it impossible for you to work, consider hiring a disability lawyer to help you file your Social Security claim, or if your initial claim gets denied, to file an appeal with the SSA.
Is Bipolar A Serious Mental Illness
Health experts class bipolar disorder as a serious mental illness, along with schizophrenia and major depressive disorder. They have this classification because all three conditions can significantly impair a persons quality of life. People also present with symptoms relatively early, so their mental illnesses can interrupt their lives for many years.
Almost 90% of people with bipolar say medications help them manage their condition. However, establishing the issue can be challenging, with just 25% of people receiving an accurate diagnosis in less than three years. People with bipolar often spend up to 10 years waiting for the correct diagnosis.
When its left untreated, bipolar can cause severe problems. People with bipolar usually live 9.2 years less than people without the condition. As many as 20% of people with bipolar commit suicide. They are also more likely to behave impulsively and engage in risky behaviors, including substance abuse and unsafe sexual practices. People with bipolar also struggle to maintain positive relationships with friends and family members.
You May Like: How To Get Disability For Multiple Sclerosis
Here Are Some Tips On How To Get Social Security Disability Benefits For Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a long-term disruptive psychiatric condition that causes an individual to have intense mood swings. A person with bipolar can abruptly go from a state of depression to a state of euphoria or mania. This can make it difficult for a person with bipolar disorder to maintain employment, even with consistent medical treatment.
Talk To A Disability Lawyer
Need a lawyer? Start here.
Self-help services may not be permitted in all states. The information provided on this site is not legal advice, does not constitute a lawyer referral service, and no attorney-client or confidential relationship is or will be formed by use of the site. The attorney listings on this site are paid attorney advertising. In some states, the information on this website may be considered a lawyer referral service. Please reference the Terms of Use and the Supplemental Terms for specific information related to your state. Your use of this website constitutes acceptance of the Terms of Use, Supplemental Terms, Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. Do Not Sell My Personal Information
Also Check: How To Calculate Disability Retirement Pay
Experienced Ssdi & Ssi Help From Handler Henning & Rosenberg Llc
If you or someone you love is suffering from bipolar disorder and youre interested in finding out if you qualify forSocial Security Disability, youve come to the right place. AtHandler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC, we have decades of experience dealing with Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance applications andappeals in Pennsylvania. We know how these federal programs work and understand how to deal with state agencies as well, such as the Pennsylvania Bureau of Disability Determination , which is responsible for determining if applicants meet the SSAsdisability qualifications.
Bipolar disorder is a serious condition that can affect your ability to work and make a living. Fortunately, you could be entitled toSSDI or SSI.Our attorneys can help you explore your options.
Can You Work While Living With Bipolar Disorder
Living with bipolar disorder is different for everyone, and having bipolar disorder doesnt mean you cant or shouldnt work.
Even if you experience symptoms that affect your daily functioning and activities, the ADA ensures workplaces allow for reasonable accommodations.
Reasonable accommodations such as extra break allowances can help you manage any symptoms that may otherwise affect your work productivity.
The ADA aims to protect your civil rights if you live with a disability and works to prevent discrimination. It also aims to guarantee you have equal opportunities in:
- employment
- government programs and services participation
- public transportation access
- telecommunication services
You dont have to file any forms to be protected by the ADA. If you meet their disability definition, you automatically have the benefit of all protections granted under ADA law.
If you feel youve experienced discrimination because you live with bipolar disorder, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice.
Complaints can be completed through:
Recommended Reading: Piriformis Syndrome Va Rating
Applying For Ssdi: Bipolar Disorder Symptoms And Treatments
The symptoms of bipolar disorder are typically extreme shifts in an individuals mood. One day, for example, a person might feel the happiest they have ever been, become very hyperactive, have severe racing thoughts, or participate in seriously risky behavior. Weeks or even days later, their mood might dramatically shift to feelings of despair, hopelessness, severe depression and irritability.
For people with bipolar II disorder, fully manic episodes are absent, but hypomanic episodes occur . Many people with bipolar II disorder are capable of being very productive and successful during hypomanic episodes.
Treatment for bipolar disorder will vary based on the type of bipolar you are diagnosed with, such as Bipolar I, Bipolar II, Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified, or Cyclothymic, as they are described by the American Psychiatric Associations Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
It is believed that bipolar disorder is genetic or genetically triggered when paired with environmental factors. Treatments are different for each person. Most treatment plans include psychotherapy and prescribed medication . Both treatments are typically thought to be useful in reducing the severity of bipolar symptoms and in the prevention of relapse.
Applying For Disability Benefits With A Mental Illness
Mental and psychological disabilities are among the conditions that can qualify for benefits from the Social Security Administration . You may qualify with severe depression, bipolar disorder, an anxiety disorder, or another mental illness that prevents you from maintaining gainful employment.
Social Security disability benefits can cover everyday living expenses, medical bills, and other financial obligations. Benefits are paid monthly and can alleviate many of your financial worries, making it possible for you to get by without income from employment.
Also Check: How To Calculate Disability Retirement Pay
How To Win Disability Benefits For Bipolar Mood Disorder
There are specific challenges in preparing your long-term disability benefits claim for bipolar mood disorder. Ive already described the steps you should take to gain a firm diagnosis for bipolar mood disorder. Remember, the CPP disability administration will not approve your CPP disability benefits just because a doctor diagnosed you with the condition. If only it were that easy. To win CPP disability benefits for bipolar mood disorder, the true challenge is to prove that your symptoms render you unable to function in any workplace while taking into account your age and work experience.
You will have to present a very well organized application that includes well-documented medical evidence. In addition to comments and descriptions made above, here are the main points to consider for bipolar mood disorder:
- Be aware that some insurance policies limit mental illness disability claims to two years. So, if you have other disabling conditions , it is important to include those in the claim as well.
- It is critical that you are under the care of a psychiatrist.
- If recommended by your doctor, is is very important to receive treatment from a psychologist.
- It is vital that you follow and have followed your doctors treatment recommendations completely.
- Past refusal to take medications will often be grounds for a claim denial unless this action is supported by your psychiatrist in a well-documented treatment plan.
Lawyers Helping People With Mental Illness Receive Social Security Disability Benefits In Dallas And Plano
Anyone who has struggled with mental health issues or who knows someone with a mental illness understands that these conditions can be very serious. Even though mental illnesses may not be as outwardly obvious as physical conditions that affect a person’s health, they can still have a huge impact on a person’s life. Bipolar disorder, which was previously known as manic depression, can be especially debilitating, affecting a person’s ability to maintain concentration, interact appropriately with others, and fully consider the consequences of their actions. Because of this, those who suffer from bipolar disorder may qualify for disability benefits through Social Security.
While bipolar disorder or other mental illnesses can have a drastic impact on a person’s ability to maintain employment, it is not always easy to demonstrate that these issues have caused them to be disabled. To increase the chances of success when applying for disability benefits, it is crucial to work with an attorney who understands the laws and is experienced in cases involving mental health. At the Law Offices of Coats & Todd, our lawyers have been working in this field for a combined total of more than 60 years, and we have assisted numerous clients, helping them receive benefits that allow them to address their ongoing needs.
Recommended Reading: How Much Does Disability Pay In California