Step 1: Understand the Different Types of Disability Benefits in California

• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): This federal program is for individuals who have worked and paid into Social Security through payroll taxes. To qualify for SSDI, you need to have a sufficient work history, meaning you’ve worked for a certain number of years and earned a required number of work credits.
• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): This is a need-based program for low-income individuals who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 and older. Unlike SSDI, SSI does not require a work history and is primarily for individuals with limited financial resources.
• California State Disability Insurance (SDI): California offers its own state-run disability program, which provides benefits for temporary disabilities due to illness, injury, or pregnancy. SDI is typically used for short-term disabilities and is separate from SSDI or SSI.

Step 2: Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in California

To apply for SSDI, you need to go through the Social Security Administration. Here’s the step-by-step process:

A. Check Your Eligibility

Before applying, make sure you meet the SSA’s eligibility requirements. You must have:

• A work history: SSDI is only available to individuals who have worked and earned enough work credits. Typically, you need 40 credits, 20 of which must be earned in the last 10 years before your disability started.
• A disability that meets SSA criteria: Your disability must be severe enough to prevent you from performing any substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least 12 months or result in death.

B. Start the Application Process

You can apply for SSDI online, by phone, or in person:

• Online: The easiest and most convenient way to apply is through the SSA’s website at www.ssa.gov. Make sure to have your medical and work history information ready when filling out the application.
• By Phone: Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to apply by phone. You can speak with a representative who will guide you through the application process.
• In Person: You can also visit your local Social Security office in California to apply in person. Use the SSA office locator at https://www.ssa.gov/locator to find the nearest office.

C. Submit Required Documents

The SSA will need the following documentation:

• Proof of age and citizenship (such as your birth certificate or passport).
• Medical records that show the severity of your condition, including doctor's notes, test results, and hospital records.
• Work history details for the past 15 years.
• Names and addresses of all doctors or specialists you’ve seen.

D. Wait for the SSA’s Decision

The SSA will review your application and make a decision. This can take several months, so it’s important to be patient. If your application is denied, you have the option to appeal.

Step 3: Applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in California

If you have limited income and resources, you may qualify for SSI benefits in addition to SSDI or on its own.

A. Check Eligibility for SSI

SSI is a need-based program, so in addition to meeting medical criteria, you must also meet strict income and resource limits. The SSA will assess your financial situation, including:

• Income: This includes any earned income (like a job) or unearned income (like other government benefits).
• Resources: This includes any assets you have, such as savings, property, or other investments.

B. Apply for SSI

You can apply for SSI through the same process as SSDI:

• Online at www.ssa.gov.
• By Phone by calling 1-800-772-1213.
• In Person by visiting your local Social Security office.

SSI applications require you to submit financial information in addition to medical records, so be sure to have proof of income and assets ready.

C. Wait for a Decision

The process for SSI may take a little longer than SSDI due to the financial eligibility check. If you’re denied, you have the right to appeal.

Step 4: Applying for California State Disability Insurance (SDI)

California residents who are temporarily unable to work due to illness, injury, or pregnancy may qualify for California SDI benefits. This state-run program provides short-term disability benefits to those who have paid into the State Disability Insurance program through their payroll taxes.

A. Check Eligibility

To qualify for SDI, you must:

• Be unable to perform your regular work for at least 8 consecutive days due to a disability.
• Have earned income in California during the base period (the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters).
• Be actively employed and paying into SDI through your paycheck deductions.

B. Apply for SDI

You can apply for SDI online, by phone, or through the SDI Online portal:

• Online: The fastest way to apply is through the California Employment Development Department (EDD) website at https://www.edd.ca.gov/disability/.
• By Phone: Call the EDD at 1-800-480-3287 to apply by phone.
• By Mail: You can also submit a paper Disability Claim Form if you are unable to apply online.

C. Submit Documentation

To apply for SDI, you will need to provide:

• A doctor’s certification verifying your disability.
• Income and employment details, including pay stubs and tax records.

D. Wait for Decision

After you apply, you’ll typically receive a decision within a few weeks. If approved, you will start receiving SDI benefits to replace part of your lost wages. If your claim is denied, you can appeal.