Understand Eligibility for Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL)

California’s Pregnancy Disability Leave provides job protection and benefits to employees who need time off due to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. Here’s what you need to know:

• Who Is Eligible? Any employee in California who works for a business with five or more employees is eligible for PDL if they are unable to perform their job duties due to pregnancy or related conditions (e.g., severe morning sickness, pregnancy-related complications, or the physical limitations of pregnancy).
• Duration of Leave: PDL can last up to four months (17.33 weeks) depending on your doctor’s recommendation. The leave is unpaid, but you may be eligible for California State Disability Insurance (SDI) during this time.

Apply for California State Disability Insurance (SDI)

In addition to PDL, you may also be eligible for State Disability Insurance (SDI) benefits if you are unable to work due to pregnancy. Here’s how to apply for SDI:

• Obtain a Physician's Note: You will need a statement from your doctor that explains how your pregnancy is affecting your ability to work. The note should specify the expected duration of your leave and any limitations.
• File an SDI Claim: You can apply for SDI benefits online through the California Employment Development Department (EDD) website. Visit www.edd.ca.gov to file your claim.
• Make sure to complete the Claim for Disability Insurance (DI) form and submit it to the EDD along with your doctor’s note.
• Your doctor or healthcare provider may also need to complete a portion of the form.

Determine Your Pregnancy-Related Disability Benefits

Once you’ve filed for SDI, you’ll receive payments if your claim is approved. These benefits can replace a portion of your income while you’re unable to work. Here’s what you can expect:

• Benefit Amount: Typically, SDI benefits pay approximately 60-70% of your wages, depending on your income.
• Waiting Period: There is a seven-day waiting period before you begin receiving benefits, but once approved, you will receive benefits for as long as you are medically unable to work (up to a maximum of 52 weeks for disability claims).
• Medical Evidence: Be prepared to provide ongoing documentation of your medical condition. Your healthcare provider may need to send updated notes if your leave is extended.

Apply for Paid Family Leave (PFL) After Pregnancy Disability

After your PDL and SDI benefits end, you may be eligible for California Paid Family Leave (PFL) benefits. PFL is available for up to eight weeks and can be used to bond with your newborn or to care for a family member.

• Eligibility for PFL: If you’re still not working after your pregnancy disability leave ends, you may qualify for PFL benefits.
• Application Process: Apply for PFL benefits through the EDD after your SDI benefits end. Like SDI, you will need a healthcare provider’s note to verify that your leave is related to the birth of your child.

Job Protection Under the California Family Rights Act (CFRA)

In addition to PDL, California also provides job protection under the California Family Rights Act (CFRA). This law provides up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave for eligible employees to bond with their newborn or adopted child.

• Eligibility for CFRA: To qualify, you must have worked for your employer for at least 12 months and have worked at least 1,250 hours during the past year.
• How CFRA Works: If you need additional time off after PDL, CFRA leave can provide job protection for bonding with your baby, without the risk of losing your job.