Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in California

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated:

Quick help (keep this handy)

What this guide covers (and a reality check)

This practical guide focuses on California-specific programs that help disabled adults age 60+ (and adults under 60 with disabilities when the same programs apply). You’ll find who qualifies, how to apply, where to call, and direct links to official sources.

Reality check:

  • Benefits are helpful but not automatic. Many programs take time, paperwork, and follow-up.
  • Rules change. Always verify details on the official websites linked here.
  • County processes vary. Two neighbors can have different timelines or decisions.
  • You can appeal denials. Many people win on appeal with the right documents or help.

Tip: Keep a “benefits folder” with your ID, Social Security letter, Medi-Cal/Medicare cards, rent and utility bills, medical notes, and any denial letters.

1) Emergency help first

  • Immediate danger or medical emergency: call 911.
  • Crisis support: dial 988 or visit 988 Lifeline.
  • Abuse/neglect of an elder or dependent adult (physical, financial, self-neglect): call APS 1-833-401-0832 or see APS overview (CDSS). You can report even if you’re not sure.
  • Problems in a care facility (nursing home or assisted living/RCFE): call the Long-Term Care Ombudsman CRISISline 1-800-231-4024; info at Ombudsman Program (CDA).
  • Disaster info (wildfire, PSPS shutoffs, heat): check Cal OES and Listos California (preparedness). For cooling centers, call 211 or your county health department.
  • If your power company plans a Public Safety Power Shutoff and you use medical devices: register for Medical Baseline and emergency assistance; see Medical Baseline (CPUC).

Table: Crisis and emergency contacts

Need Who to call More info
Police, fire, ambulance 911 Local emergency services
Mental health crisis 988 988 Lifeline
Abuse/neglect (home or community) 1-833-401-0832 (APS) Adult Protective Services (CDSS)
Abuse/neglect in facilities 1-800-231-4024 (Ombudsman) LTC Ombudsman (CDA)
Local food, shelter, benefits 211 211 California
Disaster updates — Cal OES

Eligibility basics in California

  • Medi-Cal for older adults and people with disabilities: California removed asset (resource) limits for many Medi-Cal eligibility groups. See current rules at Asset Limit Changes (DHCS). Income limits still apply.
  • SSI and California State Supplement (SSP): SSI is federal; California adds a state cash supplement. Check current amounts at SSI (SSA) and SSP (CDSS).
  • Immigration: Some immigrants not eligible for SSI may qualify for CAPI (Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants) through California. See CAPI (CDSS).
  • Applying in California: Many benefits use the same county portal. Start at BenefitsCal or your county social services office. For health coverage, you can also start at Covered California (they route Medi-Cal applications to your county).

Cash and income support

Table: Cash benefit programs for disabled seniors

Program What it does Who it helps Where to apply
SSI + SSP Monthly cash benefit; CA adds SSP to federal SSI amount. Seniors 65+ or adults with disabilities with limited income. SSI overview (SSA); SSP info: CDSS SSP. Apply SSI at SSA.
CAPI State cash benefit for some immigrants who don’t qualify for SSI. Certain aged, blind, or disabled immigrants with low income. CAPI (CDSS). Apply via county (use BenefitsCal).
SSDI Monthly insurance benefit based on your work history. Can convert to retirement at full retirement age. Adults with qualifying disability who paid into Social Security. SSDI (SSA). Apply at SSA.
Veterans’ Pension with Aid & Attendance/Housebound Cash pension for low-income wartime veterans or surviving spouses, with extra amounts if you need help with daily activities or are housebound. Eligible veterans and surviving spouses. VA Aid & Attendance and Housebound.
CalFresh (food) Monthly food benefit on EBT card; SSI recipients in CA are eligible. Low-income individuals and households. CalFresh (CDSS) or BenefitsCal.

Notes and tips:

  • In California, SSI recipients can receive CalFresh since 2019. Income still counts; check eligibility at CalFresh (CDSS).
  • If SSI is denied or stopped for immigration reasons, check CAPI immediately: CAPI (CDSS).
  • If you get SSDI and then reach your full retirement age, your benefit will switch to retirement automatically—payment usually stays the same; see SSA retirement basics.

Health coverage and long-term care at home

Medicare, Medi-Cal, and help with Medicare costs

  • Medicare (federal): hospital (Part A), medical (Part B), and optional drug coverage (Part D). Get free counseling through California’s HICAP program: HICAP counseling (CDA).
  • Medi-Cal (California Medicaid): free or low-cost coverage, including long-term services and supports for those who qualify. Start at Medi-Cal info (DHCS) or apply via BenefitsCal.
  • Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs): can pay your Medicare Part B premium and sometimes other costs if income is limited. California has expanded access—check the latest at Medi-Cal eligibility (DHCS) or ask HICAP.
  • Medi-Cal Dental (Denti-Cal): dental benefits for adults with Medi-Cal. Find dentists and covered services: Medi-Cal Dental.

In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS)

  • What it is: IHSS pays for a caregiver (often a family member, but not a spouse in most cases) to help you with daily activities so you can remain safely at home. Covered tasks include bathing, dressing, meal prep, housecleaning, shopping, and more. Learn more at IHSS (CDSS).
  • Who qualifies: Usually Medi-Cal eligibility plus a need for help with daily activities based on a home assessment by the county.
  • Hours: The county sets monthly hours based on your needs. Severely impaired recipients may receive up to 283 hours/month; see IHSS details (CDSS).
  • How to apply: Contact your county IHSS office (list here: County IHSS Offices) or apply for Medi-Cal and select IHSS on BenefitsCal.

Reality check: IHSS approvals can take weeks. Keep copies of your doctor’s notes describing your need for hands-on help. If hours seem too low, you can ask for a reassessment or appeal; see rights info on the CDSS site above.

Community-based adult day and long-term services

Table: Key home and community programs

Program What it provides Where to learn more
PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) A complete package: medical care, adult day health, transportation, medications, in-home help—coordinated by one team. For people who qualify for nursing home level of care but can live in the community. PACE (DHCS) and provider map: CalPACE.
CBAS (Community-Based Adult Services) Adult day health care (nursing, therapy, personal care, social services) for eligible Medi-Cal members. CBAS (DHCS).
MSSP (Multipurpose Senior Services Program) Care management and in-home services to help avoid nursing home placement; for Medi-Cal eligible seniors. MSSP (CDA).
Assisted Living Waiver (ALW) Helps pay for care services in participating assisted living facilities for Medi-Cal beneficiaries (room/board usually paid by resident). Only in certain counties; waitlists common. ALW (DHCS).
HCBA Waiver Intensive case management and services to support medically fragile individuals at home instead of in a facility. HCBA Waiver (DHCS).

Tips:

  • Waivers can have waitlists. Ask to be added and confirm your spot in writing.
  • PACE is often fastest if there’s a center near you and you meet nursing home level of care.

Food and nutrition

  • CalFresh: EBT food benefits for low-income Californians, including SSI recipients. Apply at CalFresh (CDSS) or BenefitsCal.
  • Home-delivered meals and community dining: Provided by local Area Agencies on Aging. Find your county program at Nutrition Programs (CDA) and use the county locator: Find Services.
  • Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (summer/seasonal): Booklets to buy fresh fruits and vegetables from farmers’ markets. See SFMNP (CDA).

Reality check: CalFresh amounts vary by household and income. Report changes to avoid overpayments. If getting meals at home, let CalFresh know how many meals are provided.

Housing and property tax relief

Rental assistance and affordable housing

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher / public housing: Apply through your local housing authority when waiting lists open. Start with HUD’s overview: Rental Assistance (HUD).
  • Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly (project-based senior apartments with services): Learn more at Section 202 (HUD).
  • California Housing & Community Development: general housing resources, links to local programs, and tenant protections: California HCD.
  • Fair housing and disability rights (reasonable accommodations, discrimination): California Civil Rights Department – Housing.

Reality check: Waitlists can be long. Apply to multiple lists and keep your contact info current with each housing authority.

Property tax and homeowner help

Table: Property tax relief and homeowner resources

Program What it does Where to apply
Property Tax Postponement (PTP) Defers current-year property taxes for eligible seniors and people with disabilities who meet income and equity requirements. PTP (State Controller).
Homeowners’ Exemption Reduces your assessed home value (small annual savings). Homeowners’ Exemption (BOE). File with your county assessor.
Disabled Veterans’ Exemption Significant reduction in assessed value for qualifying disabled veterans or their unmarried surviving spouses. Disabled Veterans’ Exemption (BOE).
Renter’s Credit State tax credit for eligible renters; amount varies. California Renter’s Credit (FTB).

If you’re behind on your mortgage or taxes, contact your county housing counselor via HUD-approved housing counseling.

Utilities, energy, and communications

Table: Utility and communications savings

Program What it does Where to apply
CARE About 30–35% discount on electric and gas bills for qualifying households. Low-Income Utility Programs (CPUC).
FERA Around 18% electric discount for larger households that just miss CARE income. Low-Income Utility Programs (CPUC).
Medical Baseline Extra low-cost energy for people who rely on medical devices or have certain conditions; helps during PSPS events. Medical Baseline (CPUC). Apply with your utility.
LIHEAP One-time heating/cooling bill assistance and weatherization for low-income households. LIHEAP in California (CSD).
California LifeLine Discounted phone and some internet service for eligible households. California LifeLine.

Note: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has ended due to a lack of funding. See status at FCC ACP. Ask your phone or internet provider about low-cost plans and California LifeLine.

Transportation and mobility

  • DMV Disabled Person Placards/Plates: Parking privileges statewide with a permanent or temporary disability. Apply with your doctor’s certification; forms and instructions: Disabled Person Placards & Plates (DMV).
  • ADA Paratransit: Door-to-door shared-ride service for riders who cannot use regular buses or rail because of a disability. Apply with your local transit agency. Call 211 to find your agency or check your city/county transit website.
  • Medi-Cal Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT/NMT): Rides to medical appointments if medically necessary. Learn the types (ambulance, wheelchair van, litter van, or non-medical transport) and how to arrange: Medi-Cal Transportation (DHCS).

Tip: Ask your clinic to note transportation needs in your medical record. That helps with NEMT authorization.

Equipment, home modifications, and caregiving

  • Durable Medical Equipment (DME) through Medicare/Medi-Cal: Walkers, wheelchairs, oxygen, hospital beds when medically necessary. Ask your doctor and plan. See your plan’s handbook or call member services; Medi-Cal basics at DHCS.
  • Home modifications: Some counties fund grab bars, ramps, and fall-prevention through Area Agencies on Aging or fall-prevention coalitions. Use Find Services in My County (CDA) and ask about “home modifications” or “minor home repair.”
  • Caregiver support: Free counseling, classes, respite navigation via California Caregiver Resource Centers: Caregiver Resource Centers.

Financial tool for disability-related expenses:

  • CalABLE accounts let eligible people with disabilities save and pay for qualified expenses without affecting certain benefits. See CalABLE (State Treasurer).

Legal help and consumer protections

  • Disability Rights California: Statewide legal and advocacy help on disability rights, services, and benefits: Disability Rights California.
  • Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Help resolving problems in nursing homes and assisted living: CDA Ombudsman.
  • Legal aid: Find free or low-cost help by topic and county: LawHelpCA.
  • Medicare counseling and billing errors: HICAP (CDA).
  • Scams: Government agencies don’t call to threaten arrest or demand gift cards. Report scams to FTC and learn about imposter scams through the SSA Office of the Inspector General.

Inclusive resources

LGBTQ+ seniors

Veteran seniors

Tribal elders and American Indians/Alaska Natives

  • Title VI Elder Nutrition and supportive services are offered by Tribes; find contacts at Older Indians – ACL.
  • Health care through the Indian Health Service California Area and tribal clinics: IHS California Area.
  • California Rural Indian Health Board can help locate tribal health programs: CRIHB.

Rural seniors and those with limited access

  • Ask about phone-based assessments, telehealth, and home-delivered services through your county AAA: Find Services (CDA).
  • Transportation: check Medi-Cal NEMT/NMT and ADA paratransit. For groceries, ask your AAA about home-delivered meals and commodity food deliveries.
  • Have a backup plan for power outages if you use medical devices: enroll in Medical Baseline (CPUC) and talk to your utility’s disability/disaster team.

Resources by region (how to find local offices fast)

The easiest statewide tool is the California Department of Aging’s county lookup. You’ll get your Area Agency on Aging, HICAP, nutrition program, caregiver support, and ADRC partners:

For rental assistance and affordable housing:

For IHSS:

For CalFresh and Medi-Cal:

  • Apply online: BenefitsCal. If you prefer in-person, BenefitsCal shows your county office address and hours.

Step-by-step checklist

  1. Income and health coverage
  • Apply for SSI (and SSP automatically with it) if eligible: SSI (SSA).
  • If not SSI-eligible due to immigration status, apply for CAPI: CAPI (CDSS).
  • Apply for Medi-Cal and CalFresh: BenefitsCal.
  • Talk to HICAP about Medicare options and MSPs: HICAP (CDA).
  1. In-home help
  • Apply for IHSS if you need help with daily activities: IHSS (CDSS).
  • Ask your doctor to write clear notes about your need for help (bathing, dressing, meal prep, mobility, supervision).
  1. Food
  1. Utilities and safety
  1. Housing and property tax
  1. Transportation
  1. Extra help

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q1) Can I get IHSS if my adult child already helps me for free?
Yes. If you qualify medically and financially, IHSS can pay a caregiver (including many relatives). Spouses are limited in most cases. Apply and have your doctor document your needs; see IHSS (CDSS).

Q2) I own a home. Can I still get Medi-Cal?
Owning a home does not automatically disqualify you. California has eliminated asset limits for many Medi-Cal categories; income limits still apply. See current rules at Asset Limit Changes (DHCS). Estate recovery rules can apply—ask HICAP or legal aid.

Q3) I get SSI. Can I also get CalFresh (food stamps) in California?
Yes. Since 2019, SSI recipients in California can receive CalFresh if eligible. Learn more and apply at CalFresh (CDSS).

Q4) How do IHSS hours get decided, and can I appeal?
A county social worker visits your home, reviews your ability to perform daily activities, and assigns hours. You can ask for reassessment if your condition changes. If denied or hours are too low, you can request a fair hearing (appeal). See details at IHSS (CDSS).

Q5) What if the Assisted Living Waiver (ALW) isn’t available in my county?
ALW only operates in participating counties and often has waitlists. You can explore PACE, CBAS, MSSP, or HCBA Waiver depending on your needs. Program links: PACE, CBAS, MSSP, HCBA.

Q6) My power company warned of a shutoff. I use oxygen at home.
Enroll in Medical Baseline and tell your utility you rely on life-support equipment. Prepare backup plans and register for notifications. See Medical Baseline (CPUC). During disasters, call 211 for local assistance.

Q7) Is there help paying my Medicare Part B premium?
Possibly. Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) can pay Part B and sometimes more if your income is limited. California has expanded access; check with HICAP or your county Medi-Cal office. See HICAP (CDA).

Q8) I’m an immigrant and can’t get SSI. What can I do?
Check the Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) through California. See CAPI (CDSS) and apply via BenefitsCal.

Q9) Does Medi-Cal cover rides to medical appointments?
Yes, if medically necessary. There are two types: Non-Medical Transportation (NMT) and Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT). Learn how to arrange rides at Medi-Cal Transportation (DHCS).

Q10) Where can I get unbiased help choosing Medicare plans?
HICAP provides free, unbiased counseling—no sales. Find your local HICAP at CDA HICAP.

Statewide resources (official links)

Program quick-compare tables

Table: Health coverage and cost help

Topic Option Key point Where to get help
Medicare plan choice Original Medicare + Part D vs. Medicare Advantage Each has pros/cons for networks and costs. Free counseling: HICAP
Extra help with costs Medicare Savings Programs; Medi-Cal May pay Part B; Medi-Cal covers more services. County Medi-Cal office or HICAP
Dental Medi-Cal Dental (Denti-Cal) Adult dental covered for Medi-Cal members. Medi-Cal Dental

Table: At-home care options

Need Try this first Notes
Daily help at home IHSS Requires Medi-Cal and home assessment. IHSS (CDSS)
Broad, all-in-one care PACE If available near you and you meet nursing home level of care. PACE
Adult day health CBAS Transportation often included. CBAS
Case management + in-home MSSP For Medi-Cal eligible seniors at risk of placement. MSSP

Table: Food supports

Support What to expect Where to start
CalFresh (EBT) Monthly benefit to buy groceries. CalFresh
Home-delivered meals Hot or frozen meals to your home. Find Services (CDA)
Community dining Meals with social activities. Nutrition Programs (CDA)
Farmers’ Market booklets Seasonal produce vouchers. SFMNP (CDA)

Practical tips, warnings, and reality checks

  • Keep records: Note every call (date, time, person) and keep copies of forms. It helps with appeals and renewals.
  • Redeterminations: Medi-Cal and CalFresh will ask you to renew. Return forms early and report changes to avoid interruptions.
  • Beware of fees: HICAP and AAAs are free. If someone pressures you to sign up for a plan or charges big fees, walk away and verify with HICAP.
  • Appeal deadlines: Don’t miss them. Most programs allow appeals—often 30–90 days from the notice date. The notice explains how to file.

A few real-world examples

  • IHSS hours increased after reassessment: A senior with Parkinson’s initially received limited IHSS hours. After the doctor documented freezing episodes and fall risk, the county reassessed and increased hours to cover bathing and supervision. Program info: IHSS (CDSS).
  • CalFresh approved for SSI recipient: A single SSI recipient applied through BenefitsCal, provided rent and utility costs, and was approved for a modest monthly food benefit. Program info: CalFresh (CDSS).
  • Medical Baseline during PSPS: A homeowner using oxygen registered for Medical Baseline and received early PSPS notifications and support during an outage. Program info: Medical Baseline (CPUC).

These examples are common scenarios; your situation may differ. Always confirm with the program.

Final reminders

  • If you’re stuck, call 211 or your county AAA via Find Services (CDA).
  • For Medicare choices, use HICAP. For disability rights problems, contact Disability Rights California.
  • For emergencies or abuse, use the hotlines at the top of this guide.

Disclaimer

Program rules, amounts, and eligibility change. Links in this guide go to official sources so you can verify the latest details. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, or medical advice. Always confirm with the relevant agency or a qualified advisor.

About this guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

  • Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
  • Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
  • Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

  • Last Updated: August 2025
  • Sources Verified: August 2025
  • Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.

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About the Authors

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Analic Mata-Murray holds a Communications degree with a focus on Journalism and Advertising from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello. With over 11 years of experience as a volunteer translator for The Salvation Army, she has helped Spanish-speaking communities access critical resources and navigate poverty alleviation programs.

As Managing Editor at Grants for Seniors, Analic oversees all content to ensure accuracy and accessibility. Her bilingual expertise allows her to create and review content in both English and Spanish, specializing in community resources, housing assistance, and emergency aid programs.

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor, BA Psychology

Senior Healthcare Editor

Yolanda Taylor is a Senior Healthcare Editor with over six years of clinical experience as a medical assistant in diverse healthcare settings, including OB/GYN, family medicine, and specialty clinics. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Sacramento.

At Grants for Seniors, Yolanda oversees healthcare-related content, ensuring medical accuracy and accessibility. Her clinical background allows her to translate complex medical terminology into clear guidance for seniors navigating Medicare, Medicaid, and dental care options. She is bilingual in Spanish and English and holds Lay Counselor certification and CPR/BLS certification.