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California • Chronic Illness
People with diabetes in California may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSDI, SSI, and State Disability Insurance (SDI). Eligibility depends on how diabetes affects your ability to work and your income. This guide explains how to apply and what benefits are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI, your diabetes must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at how diabetes affects your daily activities and ability to work. You must also meet work history (for SSDI) or income and asset limits (for SSI). Children with diabetes may qualify for benefits if they meet the SSA’s definition of disability. Adults with diabetes that began before age 22 may be eligible for benefits based on a parent’s work record if they are unmarried and meet the disability criteria[4].
California residents with diabetes may also qualify for State Disability Insurance (SDI) if they are unable to work due to their condition. SDI provides short-term wage replacement for up to 52 weeks. To qualify, you must be unable to do your regular job due to diabetes, have lost wages, and have paid SDI taxes. Paid Family Leave (PFL) may also be available if you need time off to care for a family member with diabetes. California’s SDI program is funded by employee payroll taxes and is separate from federal SSDI or SSI[3][2].
Federal programs for people with diabetes include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for low-income individuals with limited resources. Both programs provide monthly cash benefits and may include access to Medicare or Medicaid. Children with diabetes may qualify for benefits if they meet the SSA’s disability criteria[4].
California offers State Disability Insurance (SDI) for short-term disability due to diabetes. SDI provides up to 52 weeks of wage replacement, typically 70% to 90% of your weekly wages, capped at 63% of the state average weekly wage. Paid Family Leave (PFL) is also available for family care needs. SDI is funded by employee payroll taxes and is separate from federal programs. You can apply for SDI or PFL through the EDD website[3][2][5].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. California residents with diabetes can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. Contributions are tax-free, and earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses do not affect federal benefits[6].
For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) from substantial work. For SSI, income and asset limits apply. In 2025, the SSI federal benefit rate is $943 per month for an individual, with higher limits for couples. California may supplement this amount[4][6].
You must report changes in your income, work status, or medical condition to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit reductions. Reporting changes promptly helps protect your benefits and ensures you receive the correct amount[6].
Contact Disability Rights California at 1-800-776-5746 for free legal help with disability benefits applications.
Yes, if diabetes severely limits your ability to work for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. California also offers State Disability Insurance for short-term needs.
Apply for SSDI or SSI through SSA.gov or your local Social Security office. For State Disability Insurance, apply through the EDD website. Gather medical records and work history before applying.
SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for low-income individuals with limited resources. Both provide monthly cash benefits and may include access to Medicare or Medicaid.
Yes, California State Disability Insurance (SDI) provides short-term wage replacement for up to 52 weeks if you are unable to work due to diabetes.
Yes, children with diabetes may qualify for SSI if they meet the SSA’s definition of disability. Adults with diabetes that began before age 22 may qualify for benefits based on a parent’s work record.
For SSDI, you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month from substantial work. For SSI, income and asset limits apply. California may supplement SSI payments.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
You need medical records showing how diabetes affects your ability to work, including doctor’s notes, lab results, and treatment history. The SSA will review these to determine eligibility.
Yes, work incentives allow you to test your ability to work without losing benefits. You must report any changes in income or work status to avoid overpayments.
Processing times vary. SSDI/SSI applications can take several months. SDI claims are typically processed within 14 days of receipt or the start of your leave, whichever is later.
If denied, you can appeal within 60 days. You may need to provide additional medical evidence or attend a hearing. Legal help is available to assist with appeals.
