People with short stature in California may be eligible for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI/SSDI, Medicaid (Medi-Cal), State Disability Insurance (SDI), Paid Family Leave (PFL), ABLE accounts, and HCBS waivers. This guide explains eligibility, steps to apply, and where to get help.
Federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI) are available to U.S. citizens and certain non-citizens with a medically documented disability that prevents "substantial gainful activity" for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. Children with severe disabilities can qualify for SSI if family income and resources are low. Short stature may qualify if it causes significant functional limitations and is confirmed by a doctor. SSI has strict income and asset limits.
California has additional programs for people with disabilities. State Disability Insurance (SDI) and Paid Family Leave (PFL) help workers needing time off—SDI covers non-work-related illness or injury, pregnancy, or childbirth; PFL covers caring for a seriously ill family member, bonding with a new child, or military deployment[3][5]. Eligibility depends on recent earnings and participation in California’s payroll deduction system. Starting January 2025, benefits are 70%–90% of wages, up to $1,681/week, and the wage cap is removed[1][2]. Medi-Cal (California’s Medicaid) covers low-income residents, and HCBS waivers offer extra services for those who qualify. Disability does not need to prevent work for Medi-Cal, but functional impact matters for HCBS waivers.
To apply for federal and state disability benefits:
SSI/SSDI Application Steps
California SDI/PFL Application Steps
Medi-Cal/HCBS Waiver Application Steps
For all programs, keep copies of your documents and check your account or mail for updates.
SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Monthly cash benefit for low-income individuals with disabilities, including children. Strict income/asset limits apply.
SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): Monthly benefit for workers with enough work credits who become disabled before retirement age.
Medicare: Health coverage for those eligible for SSDI after a 24-month waiting period.
ABLE Accounts: Tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities onset before age 26, without affecting SSI/Medicaid eligibility up to $100,000.
CA SDI: Short-term wage replacement (up to a year) for eligible workers who pay into the system. Starting in 2025, benefits rise to 70%–90% of wages, with a maximum weekly benefit of $1,681[1][2]. No wage ceiling for contributions[1]. File online at EDD.ca.gov[3].
CA PFL: Up to 8 weeks of paid leave to care for a seriously ill family member, bond with a new child, or for military deployment. Same benefit rate as SDI in 2025[1][2].
Medi-Cal: California’s Medicaid program covers health care for eligible low-income residents. No asset test for most adults.
HCBS Waivers: Medi-Cal waivers offer services like personal care, respite, and day programs for people who would otherwise need institutional care. Requires functional assessment.
Department of Rehabilitation (DOR): Helps with job training, education, and employment services.
In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS): Pays for personal care and domestic services for eligible Californians.
California ABLE Act Program: Lets you save up to $100,000 without affecting SSI eligibility. Earnings grow tax-free. Use for disability-related expenses. Open at calable.ca.gov.
SSI: Single applicant can have up to $2,000 in resources ($3,000 for couple); income limits vary by living situation. Medi-Cal: No asset test for most adults; income limits depend on household size. SDI/PFL: No income limit for eligibility, but benefit amount depends on earnings.
Report changes in income, living situation, or medical condition promptly to avoid overpayments and penalties. For SSI/SSDI, use your online account or call Social Security. For Medi-Cal, contact your county office. For SDI/PFL, update your EDD account or call 1-800-480-3287.
If the federal government shuts down, SSI/SSDI benefits may be delayed. Always check SSA.gov for the latest updates.
Short stature may qualify for SSI/SSDI or state programs if it causes significant functional limitations. A doctor must document your condition and how it affects daily activities and work.
Create an SDI Online account at EDD.ca.gov. File your claim up to 30 days before your leave. Submit medical documentation. EDD will pay within 14 days of receiving your claim or when your leave starts, whichever is later[2][3].
SSI has strict income and asset limits: $2,000 for an individual, $3,000 for a couple. Countable income includes wages, Social Security, and support from others. Some income is excluded.
Yes, Medi-Cal has no asset test for most adults and higher income limits than SSI. Working may reduce your benefit but won’t always disqualify you.
ABLE accounts let you save up to $100,000 without affecting SSI. Use the money for disability-related expenses. Open at calable.ca.gov.
HCBS waivers pay for services like personal care, respite, and day programs so you can live at home instead of a facility. You must meet functional and financial criteria.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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You can appeal. Contact Disability Rights California (1-800-776-5746) or a legal aid office for help with the appeals process.
Yes, but SSI may reduce your payment if you receive other income. Always report all income to Social Security and EDD.
Use your online account for SSI/SSDI, Medi-Cal, or SDI/PFL. For Medi-Cal, contact your county office. For SDI/PFL, update your EDD account or call 1-800-480-3287.
Contact the California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) or your local America’s Job Center of California for job training and placement services.
