1. What is California Disability Benefit?

The California State Disability Insurance (SDI) program provides short-term disability benefits to eligible workers who are unable to work due to non-work-related illness, injury, or pregnancy. The benefit amount is calculated based on your weekly wage.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard SDI benefit formula:

Where:

• \( Weekly\ Wage \) — Your average weekly earnings before disability

Explanation: The benefit equals approximately two-thirds of your gross weekly wages, with minimum and maximum limits set by the state.

3. Importance of Disability Benefit Calculation

Details: Understanding your potential benefit amount helps in financial planning during periods of disability when you cannot work.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your average weekly wage in dollars before taxes. The amount must be greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are there minimum and maximum benefit amounts?
A: Yes, for 2024 the weekly benefit ranges from $50 to $1,620. The calculator shows the base amount before these limits are applied.

Q2: How long can I receive benefits?
A: Up to 52 weeks for most disabilities, though pregnancy-related claims are typically limited to 4 weeks before and 6-8 weeks after delivery.

Q3: Is there a waiting period?
A: Yes, there's a 7-day unpaid waiting period before benefits begin.

Q4: Are the benefits taxable?
A: SDI benefits are subject to federal income tax but not California state income tax.

Q5: What's the difference between SDI and Paid Family Leave?
A: SDI covers your own disability while PFL covers time off to care for a seriously ill family member or bond with a new child.