2025 California State Disability Insurance (SDI) benefits guide
California has increased State Disability Insurance (SDI) benefits to a record 90% of wages in 2025 for eligible lower-income workers. Learn how much you can get, who qualifies, and how to apply.
In a significant move to support workers facing illness, injury, or pregnancy-related disability, California has significantly expanded its State Disability Insurance (SDI) benefits starting January 1, 2025. The changes, introduced under Senate Bill 951 (SB 951), raise benefit levels to make disability leave more affordable and accessible for lower- and middle-income workers.
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This guide focuses on what’s changed for SDI in 2025 and how to calculate your weekly benefit amount under the new rules.
What is State Disability Insurance (SDI)?
California’s SDI program provides temporary wage replacement to workers who are unable to work due to:
- Non-work-related illnesses or injuries
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Surgical recovery
- Certain mental health conditions that prevent working
The SDI program is funded by employee payroll contributions, and benefits are available to most wage-earning Californians who have paid into the system.
What’s New in 2025?
For disability claims beginning on or after January 1, 2025, California has:
- Increased the wage replacement rate to up to 90%
- Boosted the maximum weekly benefit to $1,681
- Introduced income-based tiers to ensure equitable access for low- and middle-income earners
If your claim started in 2024—even if payments extend into 2025—your benefit rate will stay at the 2024 level of 60% to 70% of wages. The new rates are not retroactive.
How Long Can You Receive SDI Benefits?
You may receive up to 52 weeks of SDI payments per claim, depending on the duration of your disability and medical certification.
2025 SDI Weekly Benefit Chart
Your benefit amount depends on your highest-earning quarter in the base period and when your claim starts.
| Annual Income | Highest Quarterly Wages | Weekly Benefit Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Less than $1,200 | Less than $300 | Not eligible |
| $1,200 – $2,889.96 | $300 – $722.49 | $50 |
| $2,890 – $62,025.60 | $722.50 – $15,506.40 | 90% of weekly wages |
| $62,025.64 – $79,747.20 | $15,506.41 – $19,936.80 | Flat rate: $1,074/week |
| Over $79,747.20 | Over $19,936.81 | 70% of weekly wages, max of $1,681/week |
Note: Your “annual income” is calculated by multiplying your highest quarter’s wages by 4.
How SDI Benefits Are Calculated
- Determine your claim start date.
- This is the date you request benefits to begin—not when you file your application.
- Find your base period.
- The base period is typically the 12 months prior to the last complete calendar quarter before your claim start date.
- Identify your highest-earning quarter.
- Your benefit is based on your earnings in that quarter.
- Apply the benefit rate:
- If your claim starts in 2025, you’re eligible for the new income-tiered rates.
Real-Life Examples
Ali, a delivery driver earning $50,000 annually (~$12,500 per quarter), qualifies for 90% of weekly wages. He receives about $865/week.
Maya, a marketing manager earning $100,000 annually (~$25,000 per quarter), qualifies for 70% of weekly wages, capped at $1,681/week.
Common Questions
Q: When do the new rates apply?
Only for claims starting January 1, 2025, or later.
Q: What if my surgery was in 2024 but I file in 2025?
If your claim start date is January 1, 2025, or later, you qualify for the new 2025 rate—regardless of when the medical event occurred.
Q: What happens if I switch from disability to Paid Family Leave in 2025?
SDI and PFL are separate programs, but if both are part of the same claim, the initial claim date governs the benefit rate.
How to Apply for SDI Benefits
You can file online at the EDD Disability Insurance portal. You’ll need:
- Medical certification of your condition
- Income and employment history
- Your preferred start date for the claim
Applications are also accepted by mail using the Claim for Disability Insurance (DI) Benefits (DE 2501) form, which you can request from EDD.
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