Navigating the qualifications for short-term disability in California can be a challenging endeavor. However, understanding the rules is critical to determining your eligibility for benefits. Read on to discover what qualifies you for short-term disability in California.
You Must Not Be Able To Work for Eight Days
One guideline for qualifying for short-term disability in California is that you must be unable to perform your regular or customary work for at least eight consecutive days. This condition directly affects your ability to earn an income and sets the stage for determining the necessity of disability benefits.
You Must Be Injured, Ill, Pregnant, or in Need of Family Leave
The reason behind your inability to work also plays a significant role in qualifying for short-term disability benefits. Conditions such as an injury, illness, or a disability that prevents you from working are all valid reasons under the Employment Development Department’s (EDD) disability insurance program. You are also eligible for benefits if you’re pregnant or need to take family leave to care for a loved one.
You Need a Year’s Worth of Pay Deductions
Another aspect that affects your eligibility for short-term disability in California is whether your employer deducted state disability insurance from your pay during your base period at your job. Usually, the base period consists of a year, and you must have earned a minimum of $300.
You Must Look for Work if You’re Unemployed
If you’re currently unemployed, you can qualify for short-term disability benefits, provided you are actively looking for work. This requirement underscores the program’s goal of supporting people who are temporarily unable to work due to disability, regardless of their employment status at the onset of the disability.
You Must Be Under the Care of a Doctor for the First Eight Days
Finally, you must be under the care of a licensed physician for the first eight days of your claim. Continuous care is necessary if the disability extends beyond the initial period, ensuring your eligibility for benefits is medically supervised.
Understanding and meeting these qualifications can help you feel more assured that you’ll receive disability benefits. Pershing Square Law Firm specializes in providing legal assistance to people whom the EDD has wrongfully denied benefits. Our team also includes attorneys for unemployment overpayment cases who can assist you if you believe you didn’t collect more benefits than you were entitled to.
