Types of Disability Benefits in California

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

Administered by the SSA, SSDI is a federal program that provides benefits to individuals who:

• Have worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes.
• Have a qualifying disabling medical condition expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
• Cannot perform substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to the disability.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI is also administered by the SSA but focuses on individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Eligibility is based on financial need and disability status.

California State Disability Insurance (SDI)

SDI is a state program providing short-term disability benefits to workers who:

• Are unable to work due to a non-work-related illness, injury, or pregnancy.
• Paid into California SDI through payroll deductions.
• Meet the earnings requirements set by the Employment Development Department (EDD).

SDI only provides benefits for up to 52 weeks and is separate from SSA’s long-term disability programs.

How Disability Eligibility Is Determined in California

For SSDI and SSI (Federal Programs):

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA):

• You cannot earn over the SSA’s monthly SGA limit.

Severity of Condition:

• Your medical condition must significantly limit your ability to work.

Listed Impairment or Medical Equivalence:

• Your condition must meet or equal a listing in the SSA's Listing of Impairments.

Past Work Evaluation:

• The SSA assesses if you can still do your past work.

Other Work Capability:

• The SSA determines if you can adjust to other types of work based on your age, education, and experience.

For California SDI (State Program):

• Must be under the care of a licensed physician or practitioner.
• Must have paid into the SDI program during your employment.
• Must have sufficient earnings in your base period.
• Must submit a claim with the EDD, including medical certification.