- Author: Richard Stim
- Feb 03, 2026
Yes. The SSA considers bipolar as a disability as it causes extreme shifts in mood. Whether an individual struggles from bipolar I, bipolar II, or cyclothymia, it may be eligible for disability benefits if it leaves you unable to work.
Bipolar disorder can be considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other disability rights laws. The ADA defines a disability as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as working, caring for oneself, or communicating with others.
Disability applicants may experience discrimination in various areas of life, including employment, education, and access to health care. However, with appropriate government assistance for bipolar, treatment and support, many people with bipolar disorder can manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings that can range from episodes of depression to episodes of mania or hypomania. These mood swings can be intense and disruptive, affecting a person’s ability to function in daily life.
During a depressive episode, a person with bipolar disorder may experience feelings of sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness, and loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed. They may also have difficulty sleeping, eating, and concentrating.
What Are The Symptoms Of Bipolar Disorder?
The symptoms of bipolar disorder can vary depending on the type and severity of the illness, but some common signs and symptoms include:
Manic Episodes:
- Feeling overly happy or elated
- Having a decreased need for sleep
- Being very talkative
- Having racing thoughts
- Feeling like one’s thoughts are moving too fast
- Having increased energy or agitation
- Engaging in impulsive behavior, such as spending sprees, reckless driving, or risky sexual behavior
Depressive Episodes:
- Feeling sad, hopeless, or empty
- Having a loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities
- Feeling tired or having low energy
- Having difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
- Having trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Having thoughts of suicide or self-harm
Mixed Episodes:
- Experiencing symptoms of both manic and depressive episodes simultaneously
- Feeling very agitated or irritable
- Having racing thoughts while feeling sad or hopeless
It’s important to note that not everyone with bipolar disorder experiences all of these symptoms, and symptoms can vary in severity and frequency. There are different types of bipolar disorder, including bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder, each with their own set of diagnostic criteria and symptom patterns.
Can You Get Disability For Bipolar Disorder?
Yes, you can get bipolar disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) considers it to be a disabling condition that can qualify someone for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for bipolar.
To be eligible for disability benefits, an individual with bipolar disorder must meet the SSA’s criteria for disability mentioned in the listing 12.04 of the Blue Book, which include having a severe impairment that significantly affects their ability to work or perform daily activities.
Bipolar disorder often occurs alongside other mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, depression, and ADHD. It is also commonly linked to physical health issues like thyroid problems, heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and cognitive difficulties affecting memory and decision-making.
How To Apply For Bipolar Disability Benefits?
To get disability benefits for bipolar disorder, you must go through the application process with the Social Security Administration (SSA). Here are the general steps to apply for disability benefits:
- Gather Medical Records: Collect all medical records related to your bipolar disorder, including doctor’s notes, hospitalizations, treatments, and medications. These records will be used to evaluate the severity of your condition.
- Check Eligibility: Review the SSA’s eligibility criteria to determine if you meet the requirements for disability benefits. This includes having a severe impairment that significantly affects your ability to work or perform daily activities.
- Submit an Application: You can apply for disability benefits online at the SSA’s website or by visiting your local SSA office. Make sure to provide accurate and detailed information about your condition, medical treatment, and work history.
- Attend a Medical Evaluation: As part of the application process, you may be required to attend a medical evaluation to assess the severity of your condition.
- Wait for a Decision: The SSA will review your application and medical records to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria for disability benefits. This process can take several months or more.
It is crucial to understand that the procedure of applying for disability benefits can be intricate, and it is highly advisable to seek support from competent Social Security Disability Lawyers. They can assist you in navigating the process and enhance your likelihood of obtaining approval.
Eligibility Criteria Of The SSA For Bipolar Disorder
The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates bipolar disorder for Social Security disability benefits by evaluating disability using a specific set of criteria. For a claimant to be eligible, they must demonstrate the following:
- Severe limitations in daily functioning due to their bipolar disorder. It can consist of marked impairments in activities of daily living, social functioning, and maintaining concentration or persistence.
- Medical evidence that includes psychiatric evaluations, treatment records, which are crucial to support the disability claim.
- Your bipolar disorder is serious and long-term i.e. it has been lasting for more than 2 years. Moreover, you are unable to adapt to new environments and changes that were not a part of your daily life.
- It is advisable to consult the SSA guidelines or seek help from an experienced disability attorney who can help you by explaining detailed understanding of eligibility criteria.
What If My Bipolar Disorder Meets The Criteria?
If your medical impairment for bipolar meets the SSA’s criteria you can apply for the SSDI or SSI benefits. If you are still unsure whether to apply or not, you may consult a disability lawyer. However, it is essential that you are filling the application honestly and no misleading information is being provided.
What If My Bipolar Disorder Doesn’t Meet The Criteria?
If your bipolar disorder doesn’t meet the criteria, you may file an appeal. A legal professional may help to gather additional information that you miss in the initial application process of filing the disability claim.
If your claim gets rejected at the appeal process you can move your application to an administrative law judge (ALJ) or federal court.
How Much Is A Disability Check For Bipolar Disorder?
The average bipolar disorder disability payment was $1,170 every month in December 2025. However, in 2025 the highest possible payment for SSDI was $4,018 per month and for SSI it was $943. In most cases, the maximum payments for SSDI and SSI are similar for every disability.
The accurate disability benefit will also vary depending on how many work credits you have if you apply for SSDI and your assets if you apply for SSI.
2 Tips For Getting Disability With Bipolar Disorder
The disability application process is complex. However, there are some tips that can make your process easier. They are as follows:
- Consult a therapist every week and a psychiatrist on monthly basis: It will help the SSA to know that your medical condition is severe and you are taking treatment seriously. Getting frequent care is necessary as getting benefits.
- Strengthen your medical records: Medical records play a fundamental role in your application process. You must work closely with your healthcare provider so that you can have all records to show the seriousness of your condition. Moreover, if you have been hospitalized or have been injured owing to your bipolar problem, you must retain all of your medical records. They will serve as evidence.
Schedule a consultation with a disability attorney
Most people who struggle with disability do not know that the application process is a legal matter. An experienced Social Security Disability Lawyer who has experience may help you build the strongest case, increase your chances of getting bipolar disability benefits, and will represent you during appeals court.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bipolar disorder considered a disability?
Yes, bipolar disorder is recognized as a disability under Social Security rules if it significantly limits a person’s ability to work and meet daily functioning requirements.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition marked by extreme mood changes, including episodes of mania or hypomania and episodes of depression, which can affect energy, behavior, and daily functioning.
Is Bipolar II Disorder a Disability?
Yes. Bipolar II disorder can be a disability if symptoms significantly limit a person’s ability to work, manage daily activities, or maintain social functioning. It may qualify for disability benefits when properly diagnosed and documented.
Is Bipolar Disorder a Mental Disability?
Yes. Bipolar disorder is a mental disability when it substantially interferes with major life activities such as working, thinking, concentrating, or interacting with others.
Is Bipolar Disorder a Permanent Disability?
Bipolar disorder can be considered a permanent disability in severe or treatment-resistant cases, but many people experience symptom improvement with ongoing treatment. Disability status is determined case by case.
Can I get disability benefits for bipolar disorder?
Yes, you may qualify for disability benefits if bipolar disorder causes severe symptoms that prevent you from maintaining substantial gainful employment.
Does bipolar disorder qualify for SSDI or SSI?
Yes, bipolar disorder can qualify for SSDI or SSI if medical evidence shows long-term functional limitations and the condition meets Social Security criteria.
What evidence is required to prove bipolar disorder as a disability?
Medical records, psychiatric evaluations, treatment history, medication compliance, and documentation showing work-related limitations are required.
How severe does bipolar disorder have to be to qualify for disability?
The condition must cause marked limitations in areas such as concentration, social interaction, emotional regulation, or ability to maintain consistent work attendance.
How long does bipolar disorder need to last to qualify as a disability?
Symptoms must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in repeated episodes that prevent consistent employment.
Why are bipolar disability claims often denied?
Claims are commonly denied due to insufficient medical evidence, gaps in treatment, or lack of proof showing work-related limitations.