Why is it so hard for a mentally ill person to get on SSI?

Answer 1

The Social Security Administration has a very stringent definition of disability to qualify - there is a 5 step process, see http://www.ssa.gov/dibplan/dqualify5.htm . The complete listing for mental illness is located at
http://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/12.00-MentalDisorders-Adult.htm .

You basically cannot be able to perform any job to qualify and have to have a serious mental illness that has medically verifiable symptoms. Mental illness is the most difficult type of disability category to medically verify, which is why SSI denials are frequent. SSI denials are pretty frequent for almost ANY type of problem, and mental illness is the most difficult problem to prove.

Even private insurance companies sometimes place a 2 year limitation of coverage on disability mental illness claims; they're concerned about the possibility of a fraudulent claim for depression for instance that can't be medically verified easily.

Answer 2

For someone that has mental illness it takes a long time. They look at certain things. #1 being has it rendered you unable to work in any job. That is key ANY JOB. Then they look at how many times recently hospitalized. what level or care you are receiving. You can't do it your self you need a lawyer. If you have a really big case get a private lawyer. If it's small you will be able to use what ever free legal services are available in your area. The thing is if you need it you can get it, but its hard when you know you do, and your being refused. Good luck.

Answer 3

Not only is it hard for a mentally ill person,,,It hard for anyone who has a disability to get SSI. What I can't understand is....It's your money that you have paid through the years..Why can't it be used when it's needed?...I tried to get disability when it become unbearable for me to work due to constant back pain..But was denied.

Answer 4

Because the fraudsters ruin it for people in genuine need.