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California • Neurodegenerative
People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in California can access both federal and state disability benefits. These include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), California State Disability Insurance (SDI), Paid Family Leave (PFL), Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key changes for 2025.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI, you must have a severe disability that prevents work for at least 12 months. ALS is considered a Compassionate Allowance condition, meaning applications are fast-tracked. For SSDI, you need enough work credits. For SSI, you must meet strict income and asset limits. Both programs require medical proof of disability. Children with ALS may also qualify for benefits if a parent receives SSDI or SSI ^1.
California State Disability Insurance (SDI) covers non-work-related illnesses, injuries, pregnancy, and childbirth. ALS qualifies as a disabling condition. In 2025, SDI benefits pay 70% to 90% of your wages, up to $1,681 per week. Paid Family Leave (PFL) also covers ALS-related caregiving. You must have earned at least $300 in the past 12 months and lost wages due to disability. There is no cap on wages subject to SDI/PFL payroll tax as of 2025 ^2.
EDD must pay SDI/PFL claims within 14 days of receipt or the start date, whichever is later [^2][^3].
These programs help cover medical care, living expenses, and long-term support [^1].
These programs help with medical care, income replacement, and daily living support [^2][^3][^5].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use funds for housing, education, transportation, and other disability-related expenses. California offers the CalABLE program. Contributions are tax-free, and earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed [^5].
For SSI, the 2025 federal income limit is $943/month for an individual. California adds a state supplement. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but substantial earnings may affect eligibility. For Medicaid, income limits vary by program and household size. ABLE accounts have a $100,000 limit before SSI payments stop, but Medicaid is not affected [^1][^5].
You must report changes in income, employment, or medical status to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to repayment demands or benefit suspension. Report changes to Social Security and EDD as soon as possible. Keep records of all reports and correspondence [^5].
ALS is a Compassionate Allowance condition. Federal disability applications are fast-tracked, so approval is much quicker than for other disabilities.
In 2025, California SDI and PFL benefits pay 70% to 90% of wages, up to $1,681 per week. Claims can be filed up to 30 days in advance.
Yes, ALS is a Compassionate Allowance condition. Federal disability applications are fast-tracked, so approval is much quicker than for other disabilities. You still need medical proof, but the review process is streamlined.
In 2025, California SDI pays 70% to 90% of your wages, up to $1,681 per week. The exact amount depends on your earnings. Benefits are paid for up to 52 weeks.
Yes, you can get both. SSDI is federal and based on work history. SDI is state and covers short-term wage replacement. They serve different purposes and can be used together.
Contact your county social services agency. They will help you apply for Medicaid waivers, which cover long-term care and home support. You may need to provide medical and financial information.
SSI is for low-income individuals and is based on financial need. SSDI is based on work history and earnings. ALS qualifies for expedited review in both programs.
Yes, California offers the CalABLE program. ABLE accounts let you save money for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Contributions and earnings are tax-free.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check official agency websites for the most current rules and eligibility requirements.
Yes, you must report any changes in income, employment, or medical status to EDD. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate.
EDD must pay SDI claims within 14 days of receipt or the start date, whichever is later. Processing is faster for ALS due to the severity of the condition.
Yes, California’s In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program pays family members to provide care for people with disabilities, including ALS. Contact your county social services for details.
Yes, federal and state programs offer work incentives. These help you keep benefits while working, and may include support for education, training, and job placement.
