People in California with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSDI, SSI, Medicaid waivers, and California State Disability Insurance (SDI). These programs help cover medical costs, provide income support, and offer services for independent living.
SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): You may qualify if you have a severe TBI that prevents you from working and you have enough work credits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a strict definition of disability. In 2025, the maximum monthly SSDI benefit is $4,018, and most recipients get about $1,450 per month. The amount depends on your work history and earnings. To qualify, your monthly earnings must be below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,620 per month in 2025 ($2,700 if legally blind)[^2].
SSI (Supplemental Security Income): SSI is for people with limited income and resources. The federal SSI payment in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual, but California adds a state supplement. Your countable income and resources must be below certain limits. SSI is not based on work history[^2].
Medicaid: If you qualify for SSI, you usually get Medicaid automatically in California. Medicaid covers medical care, therapy, and some home and community-based services[^2].
California State Disability Insurance (SDI): SDI provides short-term wage replacement if you cannot work due to a non-work-related illness or injury, including TBI. In 2025, SDI benefits increase to 70% or 90% of your wages (up from 60% or 70%), with a maximum weekly benefit of $1,681. The payroll contribution rate is now 1.2% of earnings, and there is no wage cap. You can file a claim up to 30 days before your first day off work[^1].
Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): California offers Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers, such as the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver and the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Waiver. These waivers help pay for services like personal care, therapy, and supported living, so you can stay in your home instead of an institution[^2].
Medi-Cal: Medi-Cal is California's Medicaid program. It covers medical care, therapy, and some home and community-based services for people with disabilities. You may qualify based on disability, income, or if you receive SSI[^2].
Step 1: Gather Documents
Step 2: Apply for Federal Benefits
Step 3: Apply for State Benefits
Step 4: Follow Up
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medi-Cal. You can deposit up to $18,000 per year in 2025. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses. California offers the CalABLE program[^2].
You must report any changes in your condition, income, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes promptly to Social Security, EDD, and your county social services office[^2].
Contact your local Social Security office or county social services agency for help with applications and questions.
SSDI is based on your work history and earnings. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs provide monthly payments for people with TBI who meet the disability criteria.
In 2025, California SDI pays up to 70% or 90% of your wages, with a maximum of $1,681 per week. The amount depends on your earnings and the length of your disability.
Yes, if you qualify for SSI, you usually get Medicaid automatically in California. Medicaid covers medical care, therapy, and some home and community-based services for people with TBI.
Medicaid waivers, like the HCBS Waiver and TBI Waiver, help pay for services such as personal care, therapy, and supported living. These services help people with TBI live in their homes instead of institutions.
You can apply for California SDI online at EDD.ca.gov. You can file a claim up to 30 days before your first day off work. You will need medical documentation of your TBI.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medi-Cal. You can use the funds for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses.
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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Yes, you must report any changes in your condition, income, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much money, you may have to pay it back.
Yes, but there are limits. For SSDI, you must not earn more than the SGA limit ($1,620 per month in 2025). For SSI, your countable income must be below the limit. Work incentives can help you keep benefits while you work.
Services include medical care, therapy, personal care, supported living, and vocational rehabilitation. Medicaid waivers and Medi-Cal can help pay for these services.
California SDI provides benefits for up to 52 weeks for a single disability. You may be eligible for additional benefits if you have a new disability or if your condition changes.
