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California • Mental Health
If you have Panic Disorder in California, you may qualify for federal SSDI or SSI, and state Disability Insurance (SDI). Eligibility depends on your work history, income, and how your condition affects your ability to work. This guide explains how to apply and what benefits you can expect in 2025.
To qualify for federal Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months, and meet the Social Security Administration's work credit requirements (usually 20 credits in the last 10 years)[^1]. Panic Disorder may qualify if it severely limits your ability to work and is expected to last at least a year. The disability must be documented by medical evidence, including treatment records and statements from your doctor. SSDI is not based on the severity of your condition, but on your work history and whether you can do any substantial work[^1].
California offers State Disability Insurance (SDI) for people who cannot work due to a non-work-related illness or injury, including Panic Disorder. To qualify, you must be unable to do your regular work for at least eight days, have lost wages, and have earned at least $300 in wages subject to SDI tax during your base period[^2]. SDI is short-term, usually lasting up to 52 weeks. You must apply within 49 days of your first day of disability. Starting in 2025, SDI benefits pay 70-90% of your wages, up to 63% of the average weekly wage, and you can file up to 30 days before your leave starts[^2].
Federal programs for Panic Disorder include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require that your disability prevents you from working for at least 12 months. SSDI payments in 2025 average $1,450/month, with a maximum of $4,018. SSI payments are based on financial need[^1].
California State Disability Insurance (SDI) provides short-term wage replacement for people who cannot work due to a non-work-related illness or injury, including Panic Disorder. SDI pays 70-90% of your wages, up to 63% of the average weekly wage, for up to 52 weeks. You can file for SDI up to 30 days before your leave starts. SDI is funded by employee payroll taxes and is not based on income or resources. Paid Family Leave (PFL) is also available for certain family caregiving situations[^2].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI or Medicaid. In California, you can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. Contributions are not tax-deductible, but earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free. ABLE accounts do not affect SSDI or SDI benefits[^3].
For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind) from substantial work in 2025. For SSI, the income limit is much lower and depends on your living situation. For SDI, there is no income limit, but you must have earned at least $300 in wages subject to SDI tax during your base period[^1][^2].
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report any changes in your income, work status, or living situation to Social Security or EDD promptly. Overpayments can happen if you start working or if your condition improves. You can request a waiver if you cannot afford to repay the overpayment[^4].
If you need help with your application, contact Disability Rights California at 1-800-776-5746 or the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842.
Yes, if your Panic Disorder prevents you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. For short-term disability, California SDI may also be available if you meet the wage and medical requirements.
SSDI payments in 2025 average $1,450 per month, with a maximum of $4,018. The exact amount depends on your work history and lifetime earnings.
You can apply for SDI online at EDD.ca.gov. You will need your employer's information and medical certification. You can file up to 30 days before your leave starts.
You need medical records showing your diagnosis, treatment history, and how your Panic Disorder affects your ability to work. Doctor statements and therapy notes are important.
You can work, but your earnings must be below the substantial gainful activity limit of $1,620 per month in 2025. Working above this limit may affect your benefits.
The approval process can take several months to over a year. It depends on how quickly Social Security gets your medical records and whether they need more information.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.
Yes, you can get both, but SDI is short-term and SSDI is long-term. SDI may pay while you wait for SSDI approval.
You can appeal within 60 days. You may want to get help from a disability attorney or advocate to improve your chances of approval.
Yes, you must report any changes in your income, work status, or living situation. Failure to report changes can lead to overpayments or loss of benefits.
Yes, if you qualify for SSI or have low income, you may be eligible for Medicaid (Medi-Cal) in California. Medicaid covers mental health services and other medical needs.
