California’s State Disability Insurance (SDI) programs help provide short-term benefits to eligible workers who are unable to perform their regular work due to off-the-job injuries or illnesses. SDI provides benefits through two separate programs: Disability Insurance (DI) and Paid Family Leave (PFL). These programs are funded through employee payroll deductions and are vital sources of income for those in need.

SDI helps cover wages that are lost while an employee is unable to work due to a disability or illness. It also includes coverage for elective surgery, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. The DI program pays a percentage of a worker’s wage, up to a maximum of 52 weeks.

On the other hand, PFL provides benefits to individuals who need to take time off work to care for a seriously ill family member or to bond with a new child. PFL covers up to eight weeks within any 12 month period, and also pays a percentage of the worker’s wage.

Getting a hold of these services can be daunting. Thankfully, there are ways to get in contact. For DI, the toll-free number 1-800-480-3287 is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., PST, Monday through Friday, except on state holidays. PFL can be reached at 1-877-238-4373 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., PST, Monday through Friday, except on state holidays.

Written correspondence for DI and PFL should be mailed to: Employment Development Department P.O. Box 826880 - UIPCD, MIC 40 Sacramento, CA 94280-0001.

Online services are also available for DI and PFL through the EDD eServices for Business web portal where employers can manage their employer payroll tax accounts online.

If you’re having difficulty getting through on these phone lines, remember you can also visit the website eddcaller.com. This website provides the fastest way to get through to EDD. It offers navigation tips to successfully contact a live person at EDD, sharing experiences from others who’ve managed to get through. Use this invaluable resource to alleviate some of the stress from the process.