According to statistics, 4,076,600 people in California had a disability in 2018. Amongst these individuals, many found it hard to earn a living due to certain physical disabilities. Upon hearing the plight of the underprivileged, the state of California introduced a disability benefit provided to people who cannot work and earn due to a medical condition.
Unfortunately, numerous citizens are unaware of their basic rights and continue to suffer without receiving aid from the state. So fret not; we are here to explain everything you need to know about California Disability Benefits. Just make sure you spread awareness regarding the laws so more disabled individuals can avail of these benefits to improve their living conditions.
Types Of California Disability Benefits
In California, varying disability benefits programs exist. Each program has a different set of eligibility requirements and benefits offered. Here are a few programs everyone needs to know of.
State Disability Insurance (SDI)
The State Disability Insurance (SDI) has been helping disabled individuals since 1946 and plays the role of providing short-term income replacement. The public insurance program was launched by California’s Employment Department.
Eligibility Requirements
Even though most of the employees in California are eligible for SDI, there are certain things one must keep in mind. First, you must have paid the California SDI taxes to avail of SDI. These taxes are deducted from the salary for some time and are returned in case one loses wages due to an accident or illness.
Benefits And Payment
SDI pays 60-70% of the amount an individual made at work before an injury or accident caused them to be disabled. In addition, those sick due to COVID may also qualify for SDI.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a program that assists adults and children who have a disability. This includes people who are blind and others who are unable to earn well due to a disability. Financial Assistance is also provided to people over 65 years of age.
Eligibility Requirements
Disabled people, blind people, and those over the age of 65 are eligible for SSI. Children under 18 from low-income households or those with a mental or physical condition are also qualified. One’s income must also be of a specific amount to be qualified for SSI.
Benefits And Payment
The payment made with SSI is monthly and differs from person to person. California often pays $943.72 per month to the beneficiaries.
SSDI is a program that the government started to help people who can no longer work due to an illness or a disability. The illness should last a year or should result in the unfortunate death of the recipient.
Eligibility Requirements
Only people who have worked in jobs covered by Social Security are eligible. The rules also dictate that only an individual unable to work for a continuous period of at least 12 months can receive the benefits.
Benefits And Payment
The payments for SSDI are based on the dependants of the individual or the previous income earned before the disability.
Applying For California Disability Benefits
If you are planning to apply for the California Disability benefits, here is everything you need to know:
Process And Timeline
The process requires the submission of an application that determines whether the benefits will be granted by the state. The application must mention the date the disability occurred. It’s also crucial to file the claim within 49 days after the disability appears. The overall process takes 14 days and can be filed through mail or the online platform.
Required Documentation
The required documentation includes a certificate from a health practitioner, an identification card, and the claim application.
Common Reasons For Denial And How To Appeal
Since there are a large number of applications, some are granted benefits while others are not. This can be due to the extent of the disability or the conditions of each case. Missing documents can also cause the form to be denied. Luckily, one can appeal the decision and try again. The first step is to contact a Social Security Disability Lawyer, who will gather evidence to strengthen the case. The second step is to submit a request for a review. If the reconsideration step is denied, you can also file for a hearing with an administrative law judge.
Differences Between California Disability Benefits And Workers' Compensation Benefits
California has several disability benefits that aim to aid citizens and make their lives easier. The programs include the California Disability Benefits and Workers' Compensation Benefits. It is crucial to understand that both programs are different and entail separate benefits for the claimants. Workers' Compensation provides benefits to employees facing an injury or illness due to their work. The Workers' Compensation also includes different criteria such as permanent disability, temporary disability, or an ailment that causes an employee to lose their wage. The compensation is based on the extent of the disability and is determined by the employee's wage rate. The California Disability Benefits, on the other hand, pays weekly benefits for a temporary period of time.
Can You Receive Both Types Of Benefits?
Since the benefits are different, an individual can apply to both programs at the same time. However, one cannot be paid both at the same time. Applying to California Disability Benefits and Workers' Compensation Benefits together is advised since each takes a different time to pay.
Overview Of California Disability Benefits In 2024
Those earning regularly may not understand the importance of California Disability Benefits. But the fact is, those who are disabled and have no income can lead comfortable lives due to these benefits. It is also important to note that thousands of people apply for these benefits, but not all applications are approved. Stats reveal that 65% of applications may be denied. To ensure the application you submit is solid, reach out to a legal practitioner.
Seeking legal aid is the most crucial step since lawyers understand the paperwork and laws of the state better than anyone else. Moreover, they will also be able to ensure no mistakes are made in the applications and the case is presented correctly. Are you suffering from a disability? We suggest you apply for a claim now. To better understand your eligibility, seek legal advice now!
Wanna know what to do when you don't have enough work credits for disability benefits? Check out our link to learn more.
