To get disability in California, you need to start by determining if you are eligible for benefits. The state of California offers two main types of disability benefits: State Disability Insurance (SDI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
If you are looking to apply for State Disability Insurance (SDI), you can do so through the Employment Development Department (EDD) website. To be eligible for SDI, you must have lost wages due to a non-work-related illness, injury, or pregnancy. You also need to have earned enough work credits and have been paying into the SDI program through payroll deductions.
On the other hand, if you are seeking Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you will need to apply through the Social Security Administration (SSA). In order to qualify for SSDI, you must have a disability that prevents you from working and have a work history that has paid into Social Security.
When applying for disability benefits in California, it's important to gather all necessary documentation to support your claim. This may include medical records, doctor's reports, and any other relevant information that demonstrates your disability and its impact on your ability to work.
Once you have submitted your application, it may take some time to receive a decision. If your application is approved, you will start receiving disability benefits based on your eligibility. If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision and provide additional evidence to support your claim.
It's important to note that the process of applying for disability benefits in California can be complex and time-consuming. It may be helpful to seek guidance from a legal professional or advocate who specializes in disability claims to ensure that you have the best possible chance of being approved for benefits.