Schizophrenia Benefits in Maryland

• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): For people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65+. Schizophrenia can qualify if it meets Social Security's definition of disability. SSI is paid monthly and can help with basic needs.
• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): For people who worked and paid Social Security taxes but now have a disability, like schizophrenia, that keeps them from working. SSDI is based on your work history and earnings.
• Medicaid: Provides health coverage for low-income people with disabilities, including those with schizophrenia. You may qualify if you get SSI or meet other rules.
• Medicare: Some people with schizophrenia get Medicare after getting SSDI for 24 months.

All federal programs require proof of disability from a doctor and meeting income/resource limits. More details: Social Security Administration

Citation: Social Security Administration - Disability Programs, accessed 2025-11-06.

• Temporary Disability Assistance Program (TDAP): Maryland's TDAP gives cash help to low-income adults with short-term disabilities, including schizophrenia, who do not have children under 18. You must be disabled for at least 3 months and meet income and asset limits. TDAP can help while you wait for SSI approval.
• Medicaid: Maryland Medicaid covers medical care and support services for people with disabilities. If you have schizophrenia and low income, you may qualify. The Employed Individuals with Disabilities (EID) Program lets people with disabilities keep Medicaid even if they work.
• Medicaid Waivers: These programs help people with disabilities live in the community instead of institutions. You may get extra services through a waiver if you qualify.
• ABLE Accounts: Maryland offers ABLE accounts, which let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits.

State programs may have different rules than federal ones. Always check with your local Department of Social Services for the latest details.

Citation: Maryland Department of Human Services - TDAP, accessed 2025-11-06.

• Step 1: Get a medical report from your doctor that shows your schizophrenia diagnosis and how it affects your ability to work.
• Step 2: Apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov or at your local Social Security office.
• Step 3: Apply for Medicaid and TDAP through MarylandBenefits.gov.
• Step 4: Report any changes in your income or health to avoid overpayments.

Citation: Social Security - Apply for Disability, accessed 2025-11-06.

• Step 1: Get Medical Documentation

  • Visit your doctor and ask for a detailed report that explains your schizophrenia diagnosis, symptoms, and how it limits your daily activities and ability to work.
  • This report is required for SSI, SSDI, and TDAP applications.

• Step 2: Apply for Federal Disability Benefits

  • Go to ssa.gov/apply/disability to apply for SSI or SSDI online.
  • You can also call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office.
  • Submit your medical report and any other required documents.

• Step 3: Apply for State Benefits

  • Visit MarylandBenefits.gov to apply for TDAP and Medicaid.
  • You can also apply in person at your local Department of Social Services office.
  • Provide your medical report and proof of income and assets.

• Step 4: Follow Up and Report Changes

  • Keep copies of all applications and documents.
  • Report any changes in your income, health, or living situation to Social Security and Maryland Benefits.
  • This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits active.

Citation: Maryland Department of Human Services - TDAP, accessed 2025-11-06.

• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Monthly cash payments for people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65+. Schizophrenia can qualify if it meets Social Security's rules.
• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): Monthly payments for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes but now have a disability that keeps them from working.
• Medicaid: Health coverage for low-income people with disabilities, including those with schizophrenia. You may qualify if you get SSI or meet other rules.
• Medicare: Health coverage for people who get SSDI after 24 months.

These programs help with cash, medical care, and support services.

Citation: Social Security Administration - Disability Programs, accessed 2025-11-06.

• Temporary Disability Assistance Program (TDAP): Gives cash help to low-income adults with short-term disabilities, including schizophrenia, who do not have children under 18. You must be disabled for at least 3 months and meet income and asset limits. TDAP can help while you wait for SSI approval.
• Medicaid: Covers medical care and support services for people with disabilities. If you have schizophrenia and low income, you may qualify. The Employed Individuals with Disabilities (EID) Program lets people with disabilities keep Medicaid even if they work.
• Medicaid Waivers: Help people with disabilities live in the community instead of institutions. You may get extra services through a waiver if you qualify.
• ABLE Accounts: Let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits.

State programs may have different rules than federal ones. Always check with your local Department of Social Services for the latest details.

Citation: Maryland Department of Human Services - TDAP, accessed 2025-11-06.

Maryland offers ABLE accounts, which let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. You can use the account for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and health care. Learn more about ABLE accounts in Maryland.

Citation: Maryland ABLE Program, accessed 2025-11-06.

For TDAP, your countable income must be under $185 per month, and your assets must be under $1,500. Some income and assets, like personal clothing and a car, do not count. For SSI, the income and asset limits are set by Social Security. Always check the latest rules with Social Security or your local Department of Social Services.

Citation: Maryland Department of Human Services - TDAP, accessed 2025-11-06.

You must report changes in your income, health, or living situation to Social Security and Maryland Benefits. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments, which you may have to pay back. Keep records of all changes and reports.

Citation: Social Security - Reporting Changes, accessed 2025-11-06.

• Maryland Department of Human Services
  Phone: 1-800-332-6347

  Website

  For TDAP, Medicaid, and other state benefits.
• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Website

  For SSI, SSDI, and Medicare.

• Can I get disability benefits for schizophrenia in Maryland?

  Yes, if your schizophrenia is severe enough to keep you from working, you may qualify for SSI, SSDI, or Maryland's TDAP. You need a medical report from your doctor and must meet income and asset rules.

• How much money can I get from disability programs in Maryland?

  SSI and TDAP payments are usually up to $185 per month. SSDI payments depend on your work history. Medicaid covers medical costs, not cash.

• Do I need to be unemployed to get disability benefits?

  No. You can work and still get benefits, but there are limits on how much you can earn. Some programs, like the EID Program, help you keep Medicaid if you work.

• How long does it take to get approved for disability benefits?

  It can take 30 days or more to get TDAP. SSI and SSDI can take several months. The process is faster if you have all your medical reports and documents ready.

• Can I get Medicaid if I have schizophrenia?

  Yes, if you have schizophrenia and low income, you may qualify for Medicaid. Medicaid covers medical care and support services for people with disabilities.

• What is the TDAP program in Maryland?

  TDAP is a state program that gives cash help to low-income adults with short-term disabilities, including schizophrenia, who do not have children under 18. You must be disabled for at least 3 months and meet income and asset limits.