What you file depends on which program you're explore to

California has two main disability programs, and they use different process processes. State Disability Insurance (SDI) is a temporary program run by the state that replaces part of your wages if you cannot work due to injury or illness. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are federal programs, though you file them through Social Security. The steps you take depend on which one fits your situation.

If you've been working and paying into Social Security, you likely file for SSDI or SSI through Social Security. If you were recently injured or became ill and need temporary income replacement, you may file for SDI through California's Employment Development Department (EDD). Some people file for more than one at the same time.

Key Takeaways

  • California State Disability Insurance (SDI) is filed through the Employment Development Department and covers temporary disabilities lasting up to one year.
  • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are filed through Social Security and require proof that your condition will last at least 12 months or result in death.
  • You can file for SDI online, by mail, or by phone with the EDD; SSDI and SSI require an process through Social Security's website, by phone, or in person at a local office.
  • Both processes require medical evidence of your condition, work history, and personal information, though the specific documents differ between programs.

Filing for California State Disability Insurance (SDI)

To file for SDI, contact the Employment Development Department. You can file online at edd.ca.gov, by phone at 1-800-480-3287, or by mail. The online process is usually the fastest route. You will need your Social Security number, driver's license or ID number, and information about your employer.

SDI covers disabilities that last between 8 days and 52 weeks. Your doctor must certify that you cannot work, and you typically file within 49 days of the date you stopped working. The EDD will ask for medical documentation, so have your doctor's contact information ready. If your claim is approved, SDI replaces about 55 to 60 percent of your regular wages, up to a maximum amount that changes each year.

After you file, the EDD sends you a notice telling you whether your claim was approved or denied. If approved, you receive payments by debit card or direct deposit. The process usually takes two to three weeks from the time you file.

Filing for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSDI and SSI are federal programs, so you file through Social Security, not through California. You can start your process online at ssa.gov/applyfordisability, by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting your local Social Security office in person. The online process takes about 15 to 20 minutes and you can save it and come back to finish it later.

Both programs require that your condition last at least 12 months or result in death. This is a key difference from SDI, which covers shorter-term disabilities. Social Security will ask for your work history, medical records, names and addresses of doctors who have treated you, and dates of treatment. Gather these details before you start, as having them ready speeds up the process.

After you file, Social Security sends your process to a state agency called Disability information Services (DDS), which reviews your medical evidence and decides whether you meet the program's definition of disability. This review typically takes 3 to 5 months, though it can take longer if Social Security needs more medical information from your doctors.

Documents and information you will need

For SDI, bring or have ready: your Social Security number, driver's license or state ID, your employer's name and address, the date you stopped working, and your doctor's name and phone number. If you have a workers' compensation claim, bring that information too.

For SSDI or SSI, you will need: your Social Security number, birth certificate, driver's license or state ID, W-2 forms or tax returns from the past year, names and addresses of all doctors and hospitals that have treated you in the past three years, dates of those treatments, and a list of medications you take. If you are explore for SSI (the needs-based program), you will also need to report your income, resources, and living situation.

Medical records are the most important part of any disability process. Social Security and the EDD do not make decisions based on what you tell them—they need documentation from your doctors. If you do not have recent medical records, schedule an appointment with your doctor before you file. If you cannot afford to see a doctor, ask the program you are explore to whether they can arrange a medical exam at no cost to you.

What happens after you file

For SDI, the EDD reviews your process and medical information. If approved, you start receiving payments within two to three weeks. If denied, you can request reconsideration within 30 days of the denial notice.

For SSDI and SSI, Social Security sends your case to Disability information Services. If DDS approves your claim, you receive a notice and your benefits begin. If denied, you have 60 days from the date of the denial notice to file an appeal. The appeal process has several stages: reconsideration, a hearing before an administrative law judge, and further appeals if needed. Many people are denied on their first process but approved on appeal, so do not assume a denial is final.

While your case is being reviewed, you can continue working if you are able. If you are approved for SSDI, you can earn up to a certain amount per month without losing benefits—this is called the "substantial gainful activity" limit and changes each year. SSI has stricter limits on how much you can earn and own.

If you are denied

A denial does not mean you are ineligible. It usually means the program did not have enough medical evidence to approve your claim. The most common reason for denial is that your medical records do not show that your condition is severe enough or will last long enough to meet the program's definition of disability.

If you are denied SDI, you can request reconsideration. The EDD will review your case again, usually with new medical information you provide. If you are denied SSDI or SSI, you can file a reconsideration request within 60 days. If reconsideration is also denied, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge. At a hearing, you can present evidence and testify about your condition.

Many people find it helpful to work with a disability advocate or attorney during the appeal process. Social Security has a list of approved representatives on its website. Some representatives work on contingency, meaning they are paid only if you win your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file for both SDI and SSDI at the same time?

Yes. SDI covers temporary disabilities, while SSDI requires a condition lasting 12 months or more. If you have a condition that meets both definitions, filing for both makes sense. Tell each program about the other when you file so they can coordinate.

What if I do not have recent medical records?

Schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as you can. If cost is a barrier, ask the program whether they can arrange and pay for a medical exam. Do not file without medical documentation—programs cannot approve claims based on your word alone.

How long does it take to get a decision?

SDI decisions usually come within two to three weeks. SSDI and SSI decisions take three to five months on average, though some cases take longer. If Social Security needs more medical information, they will contact your doctors, which can extend the timeline.

What if my condition improves while I am receiving benefits?

Tell the program when ready. For SDI, your benefits end when you return to work. For SSDI and SSI, you can work part-time and still receive reduced benefits up to a certain earnings limit. Continuing to report your work status prevents overpayments you would have to repay later.

Do I need a lawyer to file?

No. You can file on your own. However, many people find a representative helpful, especially if their first process is denied. Representatives can gather medical evidence, prepare for a hearing, and handle the appeal process.