If you have Multiple Sclerosis in California, you may qualify for federal and state benefits including SSDI, State Disability Insurance (SDI), and paid family leave. Eligibility, payments, and special support programs are tailored for people with physical/mobility disabilities.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have a disability—like Multiple Sclerosis—that prevents you from working for at least 12 months (SSDI) or meet strict income/asset limits (SSI). You also must have enough work credits (SSDI) or be at a certain income level (SSI) based on federal rules. The Social Security Administration (SSA) decides if your condition meets their strict definition of disability, regardless of what your doctor says[4]. Children and adults disabled before age 22 may qualify as dependents under their parent’s record if they meet SSA’s rules[4]. These programs are uniform nationwide.
California’s State Disability Insurance (SDI) is for workers who cannot do their regular job due to illness or injury—including Multiple Sclerosis—but not related to work. Your claim must be for a non-work-related issue, and you must have earned enough wages in a covered job. Nearly all California workers pay into SDI through payroll taxes. Starting in 2025, SDI pays either 70% or 90% of your wages (for lower-income workers), up to $1,681 per week[1]. You can apply for benefits up to 30 days before your leave starts, and the state must pay within 14 days of receiving your claim (or by your claim start date, whichever is later)[1]. SDI is not tied to the severity of your disability—it’s about being unable to work for a period of time[3]. If your illness is work-related, you’d use workers’ compensation instead.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly federal cash benefit for people who worked enough to earn sufficient work credits and are now disabled for at least 12 months. In 2025, California recipients get a 2.5% cost-of-living increase. Maximum monthly benefit is $4,018, while average payments are about $1,450[2]. Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Needs-based cash benefit for people with disabilities who have limited income and resources. SSI is not based on work history. Medicare: Most SSDI recipients qualify for Medicare after a 24-month waiting period. ABLE Accounts: Federal/state savings accounts for people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid.
State Disability Insurance (SDI): California’s short-term wage replacement program for workers unable to do their jobs due to non-work-related illness, injury, or pregnancy. Multiple Sclerosis qualifies if it prevents regular work. In 2025, benefits are 70% or 90% of wages (for lower earners), up to $1,681 per week[1]. Paid Family Leave (PFL): Provides wage replacement for Californians caring for a seriously ill family member (which could include yourself if you are disabled and receiving care). Medi-Cal: California’s Medicaid program for low-income residents, including those with disabilities. It covers long-term care, prescriptions, and in-home supports. Department of Rehabilitation (DOR): Offers vocational rehabilitation, job training, and assistive technology for people with Multiple Sclerosis. In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS): State program for people with disabilities who need help with daily living activities at home. Migrant and Seasonal Farmworker Outreach Program: Specialized services for agricultural workers with disabilities.
ABLE accounts let Californians with disabilities save up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit) and earn tax-free interest without losing SSI, Medi-Cal, or other needs-based benefits. You can use the money for qualified disability expenses. See our ABLE Accounts guide for more details on California’s program options.
SSDI has no strict income limits once approved, but substantial earnings can affect eligibility. In 2025, earning over $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind) may disqualify you from continuing SSDI or SSI benefits[4]. SSI has strict income and asset limits—individuals generally can’t have more than $2,000 in resources outside of ABLE accounts and certain exclusions. Medi-Cal/Medicaid limits vary by program and household size.
If your income or work situation changes, you must report it to SSA, EDD, or Medi-Cal—failure to do so could result in overpayments or penalties. Overpayments must be repaid and can affect future benefits. See our Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide for best practices and step-by-step instructions.
Starting in 2025, California SDI and Paid Family Leave benefits increase to 70% or 90% of wages (for lower earners), up to $1,681 per week. Payroll contributions also increased to 1.2% with no wage cap. You can file up to 30 days before your leave begins[1].
You may receive both if you qualify, but usually not at the same time. SSDI is for long-term disabilities, while SDI is for short-term job loss due to non-work-related illness or injury. Check with both agencies to coordinate benefits[3].
If your income is low and you meet California’s disability or health standards, you may qualify for Medi-Cal. Applying with a confirmed diagnosis can help, especially if your Multiple Sclerosis affects your ability to work or perform daily activities.
You may still qualify for some benefits if your earnings are below SGA limits ($1,620/month in 2025, or $2,700 if blind)[4]. Use **SSI & SSDI Work Incentives** to plan how work affects your benefits and explore employment support programs.
SDI pays 70% or 90% of your regular wages (for lower earners), up to a maximum of $1,681 per week. Your actual payment depends on your previous earnings and the timing of your claim[1].
Apply online through your myEDD account at the California Employment Development Department website. You can file up to 30 days before your anticipated leave starts[3].
Yes, you have the right to appeal decisions for SSDI, SSI, Medi-Cal, and SDI. Appeals must be filed within strict deadlines—get help from Disability Rights California or legal aid if needed.
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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No, you must meet the government’s strict definition of disability and medical criteria. Multiple Sclerosis is a qualifying condition if it severely limits your ability to work and function[4].
Paid Family Leave can help if you need time to care for yourself during a flare-up or recovery, or to care for a family member. It pays a portion of your wages for up to eight weeks[3].
Yes, but your earnings must not exceed the SGA limit. There are special rules and programs—see **SSI & SSDI Work Incentives** for how to use Ticket to Work and other supports[4].
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. It lets you save money without losing benefits. Visit our **ABLE Accounts** guide to learn how to open one in California.
