People with schizophrenia in California can get federal SSDI or SSI, plus state disability insurance (SDI) and Medicaid. Eligibility depends on work history, income, and medical proof. This guide explains how to apply and what benefits you can receive.
To qualify for federal Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, have a disability that prevents substantial work for at least 12 months, and meet the Social Security Administration's work credit requirements. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and meet the SSA's definition of disability. Schizophrenia is listed in the SSA's Blue Book under mental disorders, so medical proof is key. Most people with schizophrenia qualify if they meet the criteria and have proper documentation [1].
SSDI is based on your work history and earnings, not the severity of your condition. SSI is based on financial need. Both programs require you to be unable to do substantial work due to your disability [4].
California residents with schizophrenia can also apply for State Disability Insurance (SDI), which provides short-term wage replacement for non-work-related illnesses or injuries, including mental health conditions. SDI is not based on income, but on your recent earnings and employment status. You must be unable to work due to your disability and meet the state's eligibility rules. SDI benefits are paid weekly and can be up to 70-90% of your average weekly wage, capped at 63% of the state average weekly wage. You can file up to 30 days before your expected leave starts [2].
California also offers Medi-Cal for health coverage, which is available to low-income individuals with disabilities, including schizophrenia. Medi-Cal can cover therapy, medication, and other services. California has special programs for people with mental health disabilities, such as Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers, which provide extra support for living independently [3].
California ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medi-Cal benefits. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) for disability-related expenses. Funds grow tax-free and don't count as income for most benefits [5].
If you get too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report any changes in income, work, or living situation to Social Security or EDD right away. Overpayments can happen if you work too much or don't report changes. You can request a waiver if you can't pay back the overpayment. Always keep records of your reports and payments [5].
Contact Disability Rights California at 1-800-776-5746 for free help with your application and appeals.
Medi-Cal covers therapy, medication, and other services for people with schizophrenia. Apply through Covered California or your county office.
Yes, if you have a work history and meet Social Security's disability criteria. Schizophrenia is listed in the SSA's Blue Book, so medical proof is key. You must be unable to work for at least 12 months due to your condition [1].
SSDI is for people with a work history; SSI is for low-income individuals with disabilities. SSDI payments are based on your earnings, SSI on financial need. Both require you to be unable to work due to your disability [4].
California SDI pays 70-90% of your average weekly wage, up to 63% of the state average weekly wage. Payments range from $50 to $1,681 per week, depending on your earnings [2].
Yes, but there are limits. For SSDI, you can't earn more than $1,620/month (2025) from work. SSI has strict income limits. Work incentives help you keep benefits while working [4].
Apply through Covered California or your county social services office. You'll need proof of income, disability, and residency. Medi-Cal covers therapy, medication, and other services for people with schizophrenia [3].
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medi-Cal benefits. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025) tax-free for qualified expenses [5].
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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Paid Family Leave (PFL) is for family caregiving, not for your own disability. For your own disability, apply for SDI. PFL can be used if you need to care for a family member with schizophrenia [2].
If you get too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report changes in income or work right away. You can request a waiver if you can't pay back the overpayment [5].
Processing times vary, but it can take 3-6 months or longer. Having complete medical records and following up can help speed up the process. You can appeal if denied [1].
Yes, contact Disability Rights California or a benefits counselor. They can help you fill out forms, gather records, and appeal if needed. Social Security and EDD also have help lines [5].
