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California • Sensory
People who are Deaf in California can get federal and state benefits, including SSDI, SSI, Medicaid, and state disability insurance. These programs help cover medical costs, living expenses, and support independence. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key changes for 2025.
To get federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI, you must meet Social Security’s definition of disability. For SSDI, you need a qualifying work history and enough work credits. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. Deafness is considered a disability if it prevents you from doing substantial work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses strict medical and work rules to decide eligibility. Most SSDI recipients get about $1,450 per month, with a maximum of $4,018 in 2025. SSI payments are lower and based on financial need. Both programs may offer extra help with Medicare or Medicaid if you qualify.
California offers extra help for people who are Deaf. State Disability Insurance (SDI) and Paid Family Leave (PFL) provide short-term wage replacement if you cannot work due to Deafness or need to care for a family member. In 2025, SDI/PFL benefits increase to 70% or 90% of wages, with a maximum weekly benefit of $1,681. There is no wage cap for contributions. You can file a claim up to 30 days before your first day off work. The Employment Development Department (EDD) must pay your claim within 14 days of receiving it or the start date, whichever is later. Medi-Cal covers health care, including hearing aids, interpreters, and communication devices. California also has Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services.
California ABLE accounts let people who are Deaf save up to $18,000 per year (2025) for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medi-Cal benefits. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and more. You must have a qualifying disability that started before age 26. Accounts are easy to open online and offer tax-free growth.
Source: ABLE National Resource Center
If your income, work, or living situation changes, you must report it to SSA or EDD to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to benefit reductions or legal action. Report changes online, by phone, or in writing. Keep records of all reports and communications.
Starting January 1, 2025, California SDI and PFL benefits increase to 70% or 90% of wages, with a maximum weekly benefit of $1,681. The payroll contribution rate is 1.2% of earnings, with no wage cap.
You may qualify for SSDI if you have a work history, or SSI if you have limited income. Both programs provide monthly cash benefits and may help with Medicare or Medicaid. You must meet Social Security’s disability rules.
Yes, California offers State Disability Insurance (SDI) and Paid Family Leave (PFL) for short-term wage replacement. Medi-Cal covers health care, including hearing aids and interpreters. There are also Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts.
Most SSDI recipients get about $1,450 per month, with a maximum of $4,018. SSI payments are lower, with a federal limit of $943/month for an individual in 2025. California adds a small state supplement.
In 2025, SDI and PFL benefits increase to 70% or 90% of wages, with a maximum weekly benefit of $1,681. The payroll contribution rate is 1.2% of earnings, with no wage cap.
Apply online at SSA.gov for SSDI/SSI or at EDD.ca.gov for SDI/PFL. Gather medical records and proof of income. Submit all required forms and documents. Track your application status online.
Yes, but there are limits. For SSDI, you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month from work in 2025. SSI has stricter income limits. Work incentives help you keep benefits while you try to work.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult official sources or a qualified professional for your specific situation.
Medi-Cal covers health care, including hearing aids, interpreters, and communication devices. Medicaid waivers help with home and community-based services. Medicare is available after 24 months of SSDI.
An ABLE account lets you save up to $18,000 per year for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medi-Cal benefits. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and more.
Yes, you must report changes in income, work, or living situation to SSA or EDD. Overpayments can lead to benefit reductions or legal action. Keep records of all reports and communications.
Contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, EDD at 1-800-480-3287, or Disability Rights California at 1-800-776-5746. Local agencies and nonprofits also offer help.
