California offers several disability benefits for people with cystic fibrosis, including State Disability Insurance (SDI), Paid Family Leave (PFL), Medicaid, and federal programs. In 2025, SDI and PFL benefits increased to 70-90% of wages, with a maximum weekly benefit of $1,681. Eligible individuals can also access Medicaid waivers, ABLE accounts, and federal disability programs.
For more details, see the Social Security Administration’s Disability Benefits page.
For more details, see the California Employment Development Department’s Disability Insurance page.
Step 1: Gather Documents
Step 2: Apply for SDI or PFL
Step 3: Apply for Medicaid (Medi-Cal)
Step 4: Apply for SSI or SSDI
Step 5: Apply for Medicaid Waivers and ABLE Accounts
Step 6: Report Changes
For more details, see the Social Security Administration’s Disability Benefits page.
For more details, see the California Employment Development Department’s Disability Insurance page and the California Department of Health Care Services’ Medi-Cal page.
For more details, see the California ABLE account website.
For more details, see the Social Security Administration’s SSI page and the California Department of Health Care Services’ Medi-Cal page.
Starting January 1, 2025, California SDI and PFL benefits increased to 70-90% of wages, with a maximum weekly benefit of $1,681. Workers can file claims up to 30 days in advance. These changes help people with cystic fibrosis and other disabilities get more support when they need time off work.
Starting January 1, 2025, California SDI and PFL benefits increased to 70-90% of wages, with a maximum weekly benefit of $1,681. Workers can file claims up to 30 days in advance. These changes help people with cystic fibrosis and other disabilities get more support when they need time off work.
You can apply for SDI or PFL online through the California Employment Development Department (EDD) website. You will need medical records and proof of income. Submit your claim and wait for EDD to process it. You can file up to 30 days before your expected leave.
Yes, you may qualify for Medi-Cal if you have cystic fibrosis and meet income and disability requirements. Medi-Cal covers medical costs for people with cystic fibrosis. You can apply online or by phone through the California Department of Health Care Services.
California offers Medicaid waivers for people with cystic fibrosis who need long-term care at home. These waivers provide services like home health care, personal care, and respite care. Contact your local regional center or county social services agency for more information.
You can open a California ABLE account online through the California ABLE account website. ABLE accounts let you save money for disability-related expenses without losing benefits like SSI or Medi-Cal. You can contribute up to $18,000 per year.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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For more details, see the EDD’s How to Apply for Disability Insurance page.
In 2025, the federal SSI income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Medi-Cal income limits vary based on household size and other factors. For most adults, the limit is 138% of the federal poverty level.
Report any changes in income, employment, or medical status to EDD, Social Security, and Medi-Cal. Keep records of all correspondence and payments. If you receive an overpayment, contact the agency to set up a repayment plan.
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits in California. Federal and state programs offer work incentives to help you keep benefits while you work. For example, the Ticket to Work program and the Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) can help you transition back to work.
California offers vocational rehabilitation, special education services, and other support for people with cystic fibrosis. Contact your local regional center or county social services agency for more information about available programs.
Eligible workers can receive up to 52 weeks of SDI benefits and up to 8 weeks of PFL benefits. Expecting mothers may receive an additional 4 weeks before birth. Benefits are based on your earnings and medical needs.
