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California • Physical/Mobility
If you have an amputation in California, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSDI, SSI, State Disability Insurance (SDI), Paid Family Leave (PFL), and Medicaid waivers. These programs help cover lost income, medical costs, and long-term care. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key changes for 2025.
People with amputations may qualify for federal disability benefits if they meet Social Security’s definition of disability. For SSDI, you must have worked enough to earn work credits and have a medical condition that prevents substantial work for at least 12 months. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require medical proof of disability, such as amputation, and ongoing eligibility reviews. The Social Security Administration uses your earnings history to calculate SSDI payments, while SSI is based on financial need [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
California residents with amputations may also qualify for State Disability Insurance (SDI) and Paid Family Leave (PFL). SDI provides short-term income replacement if you cannot work due to a non-work-related illness, injury, or pregnancy. PFL covers time off to care for a seriously ill family member or bond with a new child. In 2025, SDI and PFL benefits increase to 70% or 90% of wages (up from 60% or 70%), and the payroll contribution rate rises to 1.2% of earnings. The maximum weekly benefit is $1,681. There is no wage ceiling for contributions as of 2024 [newfront.com, 2025-11-05]. California also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help with long-term care needs after amputation [ca.gov, 2025-11-05].
California ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can contribute up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit) and the account grows tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free. Visit the California ABLE program website for details [ca.gov, 2025-11-05].
For SSI, the federal income limit is $914 per month in 2025, but California adds a state supplement. For SSDI, you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if legally blind) from work. For Medicaid waivers, income and asset limits vary by program and county [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
You must report any changes in income, employment, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to Social Security, EDD, and your county social services office as soon as possible [ca.gov, 2025-11-05].
California’s SDI and PFL benefits increase in 2025: benefits are now 70% or 90% of wages (up from 60% or 70%), and the maximum weekly benefit is $1,681. The payroll contribution rate is 1.2% of earnings with no cap [newfront.com, 2025-11-05].
You may qualify for SSDI if you have a work history, or SSI if you have limited income. Both programs require medical proof of disability and ongoing eligibility reviews. Payments vary based on your earnings history or financial need [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
File a claim through the EDD’s myEDD portal up to 30 days before your first day off work. You will need medical documentation showing your amputation and inability to work. The EDD must issue payment within 14 days of receiving your claim or the start date of your claim, whichever is later [newfront.com, 2025-11-05].
The maximum weekly SDI benefit in California for 2025 is $1,681. This is an increase from $1,620 in 2024. Benefits are 70% or 90% of your wages, up to the maximum [newfront.com, 2025-11-05].
Yes, California offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, such as personal care, home modifications, and assistive devices. Contact your county social services office for details and eligibility requirements [ca.gov, 2025-11-05].
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can contribute up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit) and the account grows tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free [ca.gov, 2025-11-05].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
You cannot earn more than $1,620 per month from work while on SSDI (or $2,700 if legally blind). Earning more may stop your benefits. There are work incentives to help you try working without losing benefits [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
Yes, you must report any changes in income, employment, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to Social Security, EDD, and your county social services office as soon as possible [ca.gov, 2025-11-05].
Yes, you may qualify for both SSDI and SSI if you have a work history and limited income. SSDI is based on your earnings, while SSI is based on financial need. Payments from both programs can help cover your expenses [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
You will need medical records, doctor’s notes, and surgical records showing your amputation and how it affects your ability to work. The Social Security Administration and EDD require detailed medical evidence to process your claim [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
The application process can take several weeks to several months, depending on the program and how quickly you provide required documentation. SSDI and SSI claims may take 3–6 months, while SDI claims are usually processed within 14 days of receipt [newfront.com, 2025-11-05].
