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California • Physical/Mobility
People with Muscular Dystrophy in California can access State Disability Insurance (SDI), Paid Family Leave (PFL), Medicaid waivers, SSI/SSDI, and ABLE accounts. New 2025 rules increase SDI/PFL benefits to 70–90% of wages, with a $1,681 weekly cap. Learn how to apply and what programs are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must have a qualifying disability that prevents substantial work for at least 12 months. SSDI requires a work history and enough Social Security credits. SSI is for low-income individuals with limited resources, regardless of work history. Children with Muscular Dystrophy may qualify for SSI if they meet medical and financial criteria. Adults whose disability began before age 22 may qualify for benefits based on a parent’s work record. All applicants must meet Social Security’s definition of disability and report any changes in income or status to avoid overpayments [^1].
In California, State Disability Insurance (SDI) covers non-work-related illnesses or injuries, including Muscular Dystrophy. Paid Family Leave (PFL) can be used for family caregiving or bonding. Starting January 1, 2025, SDI/PFL benefits are 70–90% of wages, with a maximum of $1,681 per week. To qualify, you must have paid SDI taxes through payroll deductions and meet wage and employment requirements. Workers can file claims up to 30 days before their first day of leave. The Employment Development Department (EDD) must issue payments within 14 days of receiving the claim or the start of leave, whichever is later [^2][^3][^4].
Federal programs for Muscular Dystrophy include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI provides monthly payments to those with a qualifying disability and enough work credits. SSI offers financial help to low-income individuals with disabilities. Both programs require meeting Social Security’s disability criteria and reporting changes in income or status. Children with Muscular Dystrophy may qualify for SSI if they meet medical and financial requirements. Adults whose disability began before age 22 may qualify for benefits based on a parent’s work record [^1].
California’s State Disability Insurance (SDI) and Paid Family Leave (PFL) programs provide wage replacement for people with Muscular Dystrophy who cannot work due to illness or injury. Starting January 1, 2025, benefits are 70–90% of wages, capped at $1,681 per week. SDI covers up to 52 weeks of disability, while PFL covers up to 8 weeks for family caregiving or bonding. Medicaid waivers help with home and community-based services for those with long-term care needs. The EDD administers SDI/PFL, and claims can be filed online at myEDD. Workers can file up to 30 days before leave starts, and payments are issued within 14 days of claim receipt or leave start [^2][^3][^4][^5].
ABLE accounts let people with Muscular Dystrophy save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. California offers the CalABLE program. You can contribute up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit), and funds grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free. ABLE accounts help with costs like medical care, housing, education, and transportation [^7].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943/month for an individual and $1,415/month for a couple. California adds a state supplement, so total payments may be higher. SSDI has no strict income limit, but substantial earnings may affect eligibility. ABLE accounts have a $100,000 resource limit for SSI; above that, SSI payments pause but Medicaid coverage continues. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size [^1][^7].
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report changes in income, employment, or living situation to the EDD or Social Security Administration promptly. Failure to report can lead to penalties or loss of benefits. Keep records of all communications and payments. If you disagree with an overpayment decision, you can request a review or appeal [^1][^6].
You can file your SDI or PFL claim up to 30 days before your expected first day of leave. This helps ensure timely payment when your leave starts.
With 2025 changes, most workers get 70–90% of wages, capped at $1,681/week. File early and provide complete documentation for fastest processing.
The maximum weekly benefit for SDI/PFL in California is $1,681 for claims starting in 2025. Most workers receive 70–90% of their wages, depending on income level [^2][^3][^4].
Yes, you can file for SDI or PFL up to 30 days before your expected first day of leave. This helps ensure timely payment when your leave begins [^2][^4].
The EDD must issue your SDI or PFL payment within 14 days of receiving your claim or the start of your leave, whichever is later. This ensures faster access to benefits [^2][^4].
You need a medical certification from your doctor confirming Muscular Dystrophy and your inability to work. The EDD may also request proof of wages and employment [^5].
Yes, California offers Medicaid waivers for people with Muscular Dystrophy who need home and community-based services. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and medical need [^5].
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. California’s CalABLE program allows up to $18,000 in annual contributions, tax-free growth, and tax-free withdrawals for qualified expenses [^7].
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.
If your SDI/PFL claim is denied, you can appeal through the EDD’s appeals process. Submit your appeal in writing within the deadline and include any supporting documents [^5].
Yes, children with Muscular Dystrophy may qualify for SSI if they meet medical and financial criteria. Parents must apply and provide medical documentation [^1].
SSI is for low-income individuals with disabilities, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those with a qualifying disability and enough work credits. Both programs require meeting Social Security’s disability criteria [^1].
Report changes in income, employment, or living situation to the EDD or Social Security Administration promptly. Keep records of all communications and payments to avoid penalties or loss of benefits [^1][^6].
