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California • Sensory
People with low vision in California can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSDI, SSI, Medicaid waivers, and state disability insurance. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key changes for 2025.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI, you must meet Social Security’s definition of disability. For SSDI, you need enough work credits and a medical condition that prevents substantial work. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Low vision can qualify if it meets Social Security’s criteria for visual impairment. The amount you get depends on your work history (SSDI) or financial need (SSI). In 2025, the maximum monthly SSDI benefit is $4,018, and the minimum is $967. SSI amounts change yearly based on federal guidelines[2][4].
California offers State Disability Insurance (SDI) and Paid Family Leave (PFL) for people who need time off work due to disability, including low vision. In 2025, SDI/PFL benefits increase to 70% or 90% of wages, up from 60% or 70%. The payroll contribution rate is 1.2% of earnings, with no wage cap. The maximum weekly benefit is $1,681. You must be unable to work due to a non-work-related illness or injury, including vision loss. California also has Medicaid waivers (HCBS) for home and community-based services, and ABLE accounts for saving without losing benefits[1][3][5].
Federal programs for low vision include:
California offers:
California ABLE accounts let you save up to $18,000 per year (2025) for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can use funds for housing, education, transportation, and more. Accounts are easy to open online at ABLEforCA.org[6].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $967/month for an individual. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you can’t earn more than $1,620/month ($2,700 if blind) from work and still get benefits. California SDI has no income cap, but benefits are based on your wages[2][4].
You must report changes in income, work, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to SSA for federal benefits and EDD for state benefits. Keep records of all reports and payments[6].
California SDI and PFL benefits increase in 2025: up to 90% of wages for some workers, with a max of $1,681 per week. The payroll contribution rate is 1.2% of earnings, with no wage cap.
Yes, low vision can qualify for SSDI, SSI, and California SDI if it meets Social Security’s criteria for disability. You’ll need medical records showing your vision loss limits your ability to work or do daily activities.
In 2025, California SDI and PFL benefits increase to 70% or 90% of wages, up from 60% or 70%. The payroll contribution rate is 1.2% of earnings, with no wage cap. The max weekly benefit is $1,681.
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local Social Security office. You’ll need medical records and proof of income.
A Medicaid waiver (HCBS) helps pay for home and community-based services for people with disabilities. It lets you get care at home instead of in an institution. Contact your county social services agency for details.
Yes, you can work while getting SSDI or SSI, but there are limits. For SSDI, you can’t earn more than $1,620/month ($2,700 if blind) from work. SSI has strict income limits. Work incentives help you keep benefits while working.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can save up to $18,000 per year (2025). Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and more.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Report changes in income, work, or living situation to SSA for federal benefits and EDD for state benefits. Keep records of all reports and payments to avoid overpayments.
California offers SDI, PFL, Medicaid waivers, ABLE accounts, IHSS, and work incentives. You can also get help from local agencies and nonprofits for vision services.
The maximum monthly SSDI benefit in 2025 is $4,018, and the minimum is $967. Most people get around $1,450/month, but amounts vary by work history.
There’s no strict deadline, but apply as soon as you become disabled. For SDI/PFL, you can file up to 30 days in advance of your first day off work.
