Disability benefits are there for you when you need them the most.
You can apply using SDI Online or by mail.
The easiest way to apply for disability benefits is through SDI Online at edd.ca.gov/SDI_Online.
Applying online can reduce your claim processing time
and you can check your claim status and payment history at any time.
Here's your checklist for applying for disability benefits online.
Step one: Get your information in order.
California driver's license or identification card number.
Full legal name
Date of birth
Social security number
Current employers business name, phone number and mailing address.
Last date you worked your normal hours.
Email address.
You may also need any wages you received or expect to receive from your employer.
This could be sick leave, paid time off or PTO, vacation pay, annual leave and wages earned after you stopped working.
Any workers compensation claim information
If you receive in patient treatment at an alcohol recovery home or drug-free rehabilitation facility,
provide the name, address and phone number of the home or facility.
Step three: Register in SDI Online.
Log in and complete the SDI online registration process.
Select register as a claimant in SDI Online.
Next, you'll need to verify your identity with id.me.
Once id.me verifies your identity you will be redirected back to the EDD's website
to complete your SDI Online registration and be assigned an EDD customer account number.
Keep your account number secure and accessible. You may be asked
to provide it when requesting assistance from a customer service representative.
You are now registered in SDI Online and can apply for disability benefits.
Step four: Apply and submit for disability benefits.
To apply for disability benefits in SDI Online, select new claim. Select Disability
Insurance and follow the steps in each section. Submit the completed Part A - Claimant Statement.
Save your receipt number. You must provide this number to your licensed health professional.
You must submit your disability benefits form within 49 days of becoming disabled.
If you wait more than 49 days to submit your form, you will be disqualified.
Step five: Ask your licensed health professional to complete the medical certification.
Provide your receipt number to your licensed health professional so they can find your claim
in SDI Online. Your licensed health professional verifies your disability by submitting the medical
certification in SDI Online. Ask your licensed health professional to submit the certification as
soon as possible. If it is submitted after 30 days of you becoming disabled, you may lose benefits.
Your eligibility is determined once we receive your form. This process can take up to 14 days.
You'll receive a Notice of Computation (DE 429D) with your potential weekly benefit amount.
Once eligible, you will receive an Electronic Benefit Payment Notification (DE 2500E).