Can undocumented immigrants apply for disability in California?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 05/26/2025
Undocumented immigrants living in California often face uncertainty when it comes to accessing public benefits, including disability assistance. While certain programs are only available to U.S. citizens or legal residents, California offers limited options that may help undocumented individuals in specific situations.
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SSDI and SSI Are Not Available to Undocumented Immigrants
The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs are federally funded and administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). To qualify for either program, you must:
- Have a valid Social Security number
- Be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or a person with a qualifying immigration status
- Have worked and paid into the Social Security system (SSDI only)
This means undocumented immigrants are not eligible for SSDI or SSI benefits through the federal government.
California State Disability Insurance (SDI) May Be an Option—But Only in Specific Cases
California also offers a State Disability Insurance (SDI) program for workers who have paid into it through payroll deductions. While undocumented immigrants are generally not eligible for SDI, there are exceptions:
- If you worked using a valid work authorization at the time of your employment and paid into SDI through payroll deductions (shown on your pay stub as “CASDI”), you may qualify for short-term disability benefits
- This includes Paid Family Leave (PFL) in certain situations
If you were working under a false Social Security number or without authorization, you typically won’t qualify, even if deductions were made.
Other California Programs for Undocumented Individuals
While federal disability programs are off-limits, California does offer limited support programs to undocumented residents, including:
- Medical care through Medi-Cal for certain age groups or emergencies
- Cash assistance or food support through local charities and nonprofit organizations
- State-funded programs for minors, seniors, or those in life-threatening medical situations
How Hogan Smith Can Help
Navigating disability benefits is complex—especially for those with uncertain immigration status. At Hogan Smith, we help you:
- Understand which programs you may be eligible for
- Verify if you’ve contributed to California’s SDI through payroll
- Connect with local resources and nonprofit aid if you don’t qualify for SSDI or SDI
- Prepare the proper documentation if you have a qualifying immigration status
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you’re unsure whether you qualify for disability benefits in California due to your immigration status, contact Hogan Smith for a confidential, free consultation. We’ll evaluate your situation and help you explore every possible path to support.
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