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Hawaii • Mental Health
If you have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Hawaii, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, as well as state programs such as Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI). These programs can help cover lost income and medical costs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that can qualify for federal disability benefits if it severely limits your ability to work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews medical records, work history, and how OCD affects daily life. To qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. Both programs require proof that your OCD symptoms are severe and long-lasting, usually for at least 12 months. You must also be unable to do substantial work because of your condition. [^1]
In Hawaii, people with OCD may qualify for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) if their condition causes a non-work-related disability. To be eligible, you must have worked at least 14 weeks in Hawaii, earning at least 20 hours per week during each of those weeks. TDI provides partial wage replacement for up to 26 weeks if you cannot work due to illness or injury, including mental health conditions like OCD. The benefit is 58% of your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week in 2025. Employers must offer TDI coverage, but the state does not administer the benefits directly. [^2][^3][^4]
Federal programs for people with OCD in Hawaii include Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSI helps people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs require proof that your OCD severely limits your ability to work. You may also qualify for Medicaid if you receive SSI, which covers healthcare costs. [^1]
Hawaii’s main state disability program is Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI). TDI provides partial wage replacement for up to 26 weeks if you cannot work due to a non-work-related illness or injury, including mental health conditions like OCD. The benefit is 58% of your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week in 2025. Employers must offer TDI coverage, but the state does not administer the benefits directly. You must file a claim within 90 days of your disability start date to avoid losing benefits. [^2][^3][^4]
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Hawaii, you can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. The account grows tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses do not count as income for SSI or Medicaid. [^5]
For SSI, Hawaii follows federal income limits. In 2025, the federal SSI payment is $943 per month for an individual. SSDI payments depend on your work history and earnings. TDI benefits are 58% of your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week. [^2][^3]
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report any changes in income, work, or living situation to Social Security or your insurer. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. [^6]
To get Hawaii TDI benefits, file your claim within 90 days of your disability start date. Late claims may lose benefits.
You must provide medical records or a doctor’s note to prove your OCD is severe enough to prevent work.
Yes, if your OCD severely limits your ability to work, you may qualify for federal SSI or SSDI, or Hawaii’s Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI). You must provide medical proof and meet income or work requirements.
In 2025, Hawaii TDI pays 58% of your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week, for up to 26 weeks. The amount depends on your earnings and the length of your disability.
Yes, you must file a TDI claim within 90 days of your disability start date. Filing late can result in losing part or all of your benefits.
Yes, if you qualify for SSI or have low income, you may get Medicaid in Hawaii. Medicaid covers healthcare costs, including mental health treatment for OCD.
If your TDI claim is denied, you can appeal within 20 days of receiving the denial notice. Provide evidence like medical records or pay stubs to support your appeal.
You may be able to work part-time or try a return to work under SSI or SSDI work incentives. Check with Social Security to avoid losing benefits.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and requirements.
Yes, you must provide medical proof, such as a doctor’s note, to show your OCD is severe enough to prevent you from working.
Yes, you can receive both SSI and Hawaii TDI if you meet the eligibility requirements for each program. TDI does not count as income for SSI.
Benefits usually start after a 7-day waiting period. The exact timing depends on how quickly you file your claim and submit all required documents.
Hawaii offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, including mental health conditions. These waivers can help with long-term care and support services.
