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North Carolina • Mental Health
People with schizophrenia in North Carolina can get federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and state-specific programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and extra supports.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with schizophrenia, you must have a medical condition that stops you from working and is expected to last at least a year or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a five-step process to decide if your condition meets their rules. Schizophrenia is listed in the SSA’s impairment listings, so if your diagnosis and symptoms match, you may qualify. You must also meet work credit or income/asset rules for SSDI or SSI, respectively [7].
In North Carolina, public employees with schizophrenia may qualify for state disability benefits through the Disability Income Plan of North Carolina (DIP-NC). Eligibility depends on your years of service in the Teachers’ and State Employees’ Retirement System (TSERS). If you have at least one year of service, you may get short-term disability (STD) after a 60-day waiting period. STD pays up to $3,000 per month for up to a year. If you remain disabled, you may qualify for long-term disability (LTD) benefits. State disability plans do not replace federal benefits but may supplement them for eligible workers [1].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In North Carolina, you can open an ABLE account to pay for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and health care. Contributions do not count as income for SSI or Medicaid, but there are annual and lifetime limits [4].
For SSI, the income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you must not be doing substantial gainful activity (SGA), which is $1,550 per month in 2025. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size. Check with your local Department of Social Services for exact numbers [4].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security or Medicaid. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Use the Social Security online portal or call 1-800-772-1213 to report changes. For Medicaid, contact your local Department of Social Services [4].
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or use the DB101 North Carolina planner for free help with applications and benefits planning.
Yes, schizophrenia is a qualifying condition for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI. You must show that your symptoms prevent you from working and are expected to last at least a year. Medical records are required.
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or apply online. You will need medical records, work history, and personal details. Local help is available through DB101 North Carolina.
Public employees may qualify for the Disability Income Plan of North Carolina (DIP-NC). This plan offers short-term and long-term disability benefits if you have at least one year of service.
Yes, North Carolina offers Medicaid Waivers for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including schizophrenia. These waivers help with home and community-based services.
Working can affect your SSI and SSDI benefits. There are work incentives and programs to help you keep benefits while working. Contact DB101 North Carolina for personalized help.
Yes, if you get SSDI, you will qualify for Medicare after a 24-month waiting period. Medicare covers health care services for people with disabilities.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. North Carolina residents can open an ABLE account for qualified expenses.
You can get help from Social Security, your local Department of Social Services, DB101 North Carolina, and disability advocates. These groups offer free help with applications and planning.
Report changes to Social Security online or by calling 1-800-772-1213. For Medicaid, contact your local Department of Social Services. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments.
Yes, public employees may qualify for the Disability Income Plan of North Carolina (DIP-NC). This plan offers short-term and long-term disability benefits if you have at least one year of service.
