Disability Insurance Benefits
Stepping away from work can be a really challenging time. Get the support you need, when you need it most.
Disability Insurance (DI) is part of the State Disability Insurance (SDI) program and provides short-term wage replacement to eligible California workers.
A disability is an illness or injury, either physical or mental, which prevents you from working. A disability also includes elective surgery, pregnancy, childbirth, or other related medical conditions.
Learn About Disability Benefits
DI does not provide job protection. However, your job may be protected through other federal or state laws such as the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or the California Family Rights Act (CFRA).
The fastest and most secure way to apply online is through myEDD. You can also complete and submit your Claim for Disability Insurance (DI) Benefits (DE 2501) (PDF) form by mail or online.
To learn more, review the following:
- How to Apply in myEDD
- Estimate Benefit Payments: Calculator
- Options to Apply for DI Benefits (Online or by Mail)
- DI Benefits and Payments FAQs
Once your completed claim application is received, we will confirm eligibility. You can expect this process to take up to 14 days.
Note: Processing time may vary depending on the claim. If your claim is incomplete or requires additional information, processing will be delayed.
It is important to manage your disability benefits correctly, including how to continue or stop your benefit payments.
- Reporting Your Wages or Work Status
- Request to Stop or Continue Your DI Benefits
- DI Benefits and Payments FAQs
- Tax Information: Form 1099G FAQs
Note: Make sure that your information is reported accurately and the correct benefits are paid. Learn more on Help Fight Fraud.
Register for myEDD
Creating an account is an important step in this process. With myEDD, you can apply for Disability Insurance and manage your claim in SDI Online.
Find DI Information for You
Additional Resources
Can’t find what you are looking for? View these DI and PFL resources for more information.
- General SDI Information
- SDI FAQs
- Forms and Publications
- SDI Online Tutorials and Videos
- Self-Service Options
- Contact SDI