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California • Chronic Illness
People with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in California can qualify for federal disability programs like SSI and SSDI, plus state benefits such as State Disability Insurance (SDI) and Paid Family Leave (PFL). New 2025 changes mean higher weekly payments and faster claim processing.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) can qualify for federal disability benefits if it severely limits your ability to work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at how your symptoms affect daily activities and work. To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources. Both programs require medical proof of your condition and its impact on your life. Most SSDI recipients in California get about $1,450 per month, with a maximum of $4,018 for new recipients in 2025. SSI amounts depend on your income and living situation [3].
In California, people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may qualify for State Disability Insurance (SDI) if they cannot work due to their illness. SDI pays up to 90% of your weekly wages, capped at $1,681 per week in 2025. Paid Family Leave (PFL) also covers some CFS-related needs, such as bonding with a new child or caring for a seriously ill family member. To get SDI, you must have paid into the program through payroll taxes. You can file a claim up to 30 days before your leave starts. The Employment Development Department (EDD) must pay your claim within 14 days of receiving it or the start date, whichever is later [1][5].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medi-Cal. California’s ABLE program is called CalABLE. You can save up to $17,000 per year in a CalABLE account, and the account can grow tax-free. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as housing, education, and transportation. Learn more at the CalABLE website [6].
For SSI, the federal income limit in 2025 is $967 per month for an individual. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you must not earn more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if legally blind) to be considered disabled. For Medi-Cal, income limits vary based on household size and other factors. Check the Medi-Cal website for current limits [3].
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you must report it and pay it back. Overpayments can happen if your income or living situation changes. Report changes to the SSA or EDD as soon as possible to avoid penalties. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes at the SSA and EDD websites [3][6].
Yes, if your Chronic Fatigue Syndrome severely limits your ability to work, you may qualify for federal disability programs like SSI or SSDI. You may also qualify for California State Disability Insurance (SDI) if you have paid into the program through payroll taxes.
In 2025, California SDI pays up to 90% of your weekly wages, capped at $1,681 per week. The exact amount depends on your earnings and how long you are unable to work.
You can file a claim for California SDI up to 30 days before your leave starts. Use the EDD’s online portal or mail in the required forms. Submit medical records and proof of income with your application.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs require medical proof of your disability and its impact on your ability to work.
Yes, if you have low income and resources, you may qualify for Medicaid (Medi-Cal) in California. Medicaid provides health coverage and can help with long-term care services for people with chronic illnesses.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult official agency websites or a qualified professional for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medi-Cal. California’s ABLE program is called CalABLE. You can save up to $17,000 per year in a CalABLE account for qualified disability expenses.
The Employment Development Department (EDD) must pay your SDI claim within 14 days of receiving it or the start date, whichever is later. Processing times may vary depending on the completeness of your application.
Yes, but there are limits. For SSDI, you must not earn more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if legally blind) to be considered disabled. For SSI, your income must be below the federal limit. Learn more about work incentives at the SSA website.
If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision. Follow the instructions provided by the EDD or SSA for the appeals process. You may need to provide additional medical evidence or attend a hearing.
Yes, California offers Medicaid waiver programs (HCBS) that help people with chronic illnesses get long-term care services at home or in the community. These programs can help with housing, transportation, and other support services.
