California offers a range of benefits for people with intellectual disabilities, including federal programs like SSI and SSDI, state disability insurance (SDI), paid family leave (PFL), Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. Eligibility and application processes vary by program.
Contact your local regional center or the California Department of Social Services for help with applications and eligibility questions.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs provide monthly payments for people with disabilities, but eligibility and payment amounts differ [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need to provide medical records and proof of income and assets [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
The Lanterman Act provides services and supports for people with developmental disabilities in California through regional centers. Services include case management, therapy, and support services [ca.gov, 2025-11-05].
Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities. You can apply through your local regional center or the California Department of Social Services [ca.gov, 2025-11-05].
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits. You can open an ABLE account through the California ABLE program website [ca.gov, 2025-11-05].
In 2025, the federal SSI payment is $967 per month for an individual, with a resource limit of $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. California may supplement this amount [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Join thousands of families who trust Purple to protect their benefits
Purple is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by OMB Bank, Member FDIC.
Report changes in your income, assets, or living situation to the Social Security Administration or your local regional center to avoid overpayments and ensure you receive the correct amount of benefits [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05; ca.gov, 2025-11-05].
Regional centers provide a range of services for people with developmental disabilities, including case management, therapy, and support services. Contact your local regional center for more information [ca.gov, 2025-11-05].
Yes, you can work while receiving SSI or SSDI, but there are limits on how much you can earn. The Social Security Administration has work incentives to help you keep your benefits while you work [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
The maximum monthly SSDI benefit in 2025 is $4,018 for new recipients, but most people receive less based on their lifetime earnings [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
