For the first time in my life (hope it will be my last), I got a chance to apply for the benefit of disability insurance due to my injury back in May 2023. The application was quite easy. I went on to EDD and registered an account. I filed a claim and submitted the medical certification from my doctor who did my surgery. This is the key requirement to get my claim approved and receive the weekly benefits. The amount of benefit usually is 60% to 70% of the regular weekly wage you earn at work. I was fortunate to be able to use the benefit to cover most of my medical bills. I had it for 6 months and didn’t ask for an extended benefit since I planned to return to work in Jan 2024.
Here is the brief explanation I copy from EDD’s website regarding the requirement of receiving the DI benefits. There is also a language resource you can select at the top of its webpage for your preferences and needs.
Disability Insurance
Disability is an illness or injury, either physical or mental, which prevents you from performing your regular and customary work. Disability also includes elective surgery, pregnancy, childbirth, or other related medical conditions.
Although work-related disabilities are covered by workers’ compensation laws, DI benefits may also be paid for work-related illnesses or injuries under certain circumstances. You can learn more about the difference between workers’ compensation and DI.
Disability Insurance Benefit Payments
If you are eligible, you can receive about 60 to 70 percent (depending on income) of wages earned 5 to 18 months before your claim start date. You can be paid benefits for a maximum of 52 weeks. For more information, review Calculating Disability Benefit Payment Amounts.
To receive benefits, you must:
- File a claim for DI benefits using SDI Online or by mail.
- Complete a seven-day, unpaid waiting period.
- Have earned at least $300 in wages that are subject to SDI deductions (“CASDI” on your paystubs) during the 12-month base period of your claim.
- Have your physician/practitioner certify your disability by completing the Physician/Practitioner Certification.
- Choose your payment option when you file your claim.
The funny thing is that I thought I was able to return to work in Jan this year and 6 months of DI benefits should work for me perfectly. Then all of a sudden things changed and I was not able to return to work as I expected. The layoff was a big surprise but I was feeling okay about it. My family gave me the max and warmest support. I was worried about returning to work full-time since I still have neck pain with me 24/7. I guess Buddha answered my questions and guided me on the best way to move on with my life. 🙂
I came across a good quote the other day and would like to post it here and share it with you all.
“The Power of Healing is Within You. All You Need To Do is Believe and Let Nature Take Its Course.” 相信自己有治癒的能力. 我要做的就是相信, 順其自然, 隨遇而安.
Darcy Loves 2 Share : 搭喜愛分享 