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California • Neurological/Developmental
If you have cerebral palsy in California, a range of federal and state benefits may help with medical care, cash support, education, and employment. This guide explains who qualifies, how to apply, and what programs—including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts—are available to you.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must meet certain medical and financial rules. SSDI is based on your work credits—generally, you must have worked at least five of the last ten years[5]. For SSDI, your cerebral palsy must prevent you from working altogether for at least 12 months, or be expected to do so[5]. For SSI, you must have very low income and assets. Adults with childhood-onset disabilities, like cerebral palsy, may also qualify as Disabled Adult Children (DAC) based on a parent's Social Security record, whether or not they have ever worked[5].
In California, people with cerebral palsy can also access Medi-Cal (Medicaid) and healthcare waivers, including Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), which offer extra support if you need help with daily living[7]. California SDI provides short-term income replacement if you have a qualifying work history and cannot work due to illness or injury (non-work-related)[1][3][6]. The California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) runs regional centers that coordinate services for people with lifelong developmental disabilities like cerebral palsy—these include therapy, care coordination, and help applying for benefits. State-specific rules for DDS eligibility focus on functional needs from a young age; there is no work requirement.
The fastest way to apply for SSDI or SSI is online at ssa.gov. For California-specific programs, start with your regional center (DDS) if you have cerebral palsy and need ongoing services. For SDI, use California EDD’s online portal after your doctor confirms you cannot work. Always gather medical records, proof of income, and your Social Security number before you begin.
Apply for Social Security benefits (SSI/SSDI):
Apply for California Medi-Cal/Medicaid waivers:
Apply for State Disability Insurance (SDI):
Contact your regional center (DDS):
Set up an ABLE account:
People with cerebral palsy in California can access several federal benefit programs:
Work supports help you keep benefits while working—learn about Ticket to Work and other incentives.
California adds extra layers of support for people with cerebral palsy:
Medi-Cal covers all medically necessary care for qualifying Californians, including children and adults with cerebral palsy.
California ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save up to $100,000 without affecting SSI eligibility. Earnings grow tax-free, and funds can be used for qualified disability expenses. This is a powerful tool for independence and long-term planning.
Most federal and state programs have income and asset limits. For SSI in 2025, the income limit is strict—you must have very low income and less than $2,000 in assets ($3,000 for couples)[2]. SSDI has no asset limit but does have a work requirement. Medi-Cal has higher income limits for people with disabilities compared to standard Medi-Cal.
If you get too much in benefits (an overpayment), you may need to pay it back. Always report changes in income, living situation, or health to Social Security and Medi-Cal. Use the California EDD and SSA online accounts to update your information and avoid problems.
If you get stuck, ask your regional center (DDS) for help with forms, calls, and required documents. Legal aid groups and benefits planners can also help you appeal denials or navigate complex rules.
If your income, living situation, or health improves, tell Social Security, Medi-Cal, and EDD right away to avoid overpayments or legal problems.
Yes, through SSI or as a Disabled Adult Child (DAC) on a parent’s Social Security record if your disability began before age 22 and you meet the other rules[5].
Yes, through DDS regional centers (therapy, care coordination, respite), Medi-Cal waivers (HCBS), California ABLE accounts, and State Disability Insurance if you have a work history[1][7].
Most recipients get about $1,450 per month, but it depends on your work history. The maximum is $4,018 per month for new claimants in 2025[2].
Yes, both SSI and SSDI have work incentives and programs to help you keep benefits while earning money. Always check eligibility rules before starting work[7].
Apply online with the California EDD. You can file up to 30 days in advance of your need, and your doctor must certify your disability[1][4][6].
SSI is based on financial need and has strict income/asset limits. SSDI is based on your work credits and how much you’ve paid into Social Security—your disability must meet the same rules for both[2][5].
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information and does not replace professional advice. Rules and benefit amounts may change. Always check official sources for the latest information.
Yes, if their family’s income and assets are low enough and their disability is severe enough to meet federal rules[5].
HCBS waivers provide extra services like in-home care for people with intensive needs. Start with your regional center or county social services to apply[7].
ABLE accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medi-Cal. Earnings are tax-free, and you can withdraw for qualified expenses.
Yes, you can and should appeal. Start the appeal process within 60 days of your denial letter. Get help from a legal aid group or benefits counselor if needed.
