How Long Does Edd Take To Process A Disability Claim?

How Much Time Does EDD Need to Process a Disability Claim?

Published On - November 17, 2025

admin Social Security Benefits

If you live in California and you have a disability, you probably want to do all that you can to pursue any benefits that may relieve the financial stress you are likely experiencing. After all, being unable to work and earn an income can be tremendously difficult and very frustrating. If you find yourself in this situation, you may be interested in seeking benefits from the California Employment Development Department, and you may wonder how long the California EDD typically takes to process a disability claim. Let’s take a closer look at the law together.

What is the EDD?

If you live in California, you may or may not be familiar with the state’s Employment Development Department, known as the EDD for short. The EDD operates five divisions, which include:

  • State Disability Insurance (SDI): These benefits are available to workers who are unable to work due to a non-work-related injury or illness.
  • Paid Family Leave (PFL): This division provides financial assistance to individuals who need to take time off work to care for a severely ill family member, for the birth of a new child, or for military service.
  • Unemployment Insurance (UI): This division provides benefits to workers who are unemployed through no fault of their own.
  • Tax Collection: This branch of the EDD is responsible for collecting payroll taxes to fund various programs.
  • Employment Services: This division is tasked with the operation of America’s Job Centers of California and the CalJOBS system, which offers resources and assistance to those searching for jobs.

Individuals with disabilities will primarily deal with the SDI branch of the EDD.

How Do You Apply for SDI Benefits from the EDD?

One of the easiest ways to apply for SDI benefits from the EDD is online through the myEDD link on the EDD website. Prior to doing so, it is wise to consult with an attorney regarding your particular condition, the medical and employment-related evidence you may need to gather to support your claim, and any other information pertinent to the process.

Typically, the EDD considers a disability to begin on the first day that you are unable to do your regular work as a result of your condition. In order to avoid delays, denial of your claim, or loss of benefits to which you might otherwise be entitled, it is generally recommended to apply no earlier than 9 days after your disability starts, and no later than 49 days after your disability begins.

Generally, those who properly complete an application online or by mail can expect to receive benefit payments within two to three weeks if the claim is approved. While this is often true, it is not always the case, depending on how busy the EDD may be at the time and the number of claims that need to be processed. Consulting with an attorney regarding the likelihood of processing time on your particular claim is always a wise decision.

How Will My Payment be Calculated?

Understandably, beyond knowing when and how your claim will be processed, you likely also want to know how your payment will be calculated and deposited.

Although calculations can seem complicated, it is helpful to know that generally, the EDD will calculate a recipient’s weekly benefit amount over a twelve-month period, known as the “base period.” The beneficiary’s weekly payment amount is typically around 70 to 90% of the wages earned before the claim’s start date, up to the maximum weekly benefit amount.

The EDD also offers a Weekly Benefit Calculator that claimants can use to estimate what their benefit amount might be. It should be noted that this amount is only an estimate and is no substitute for consulting with an attorney who knows and understands the law and can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances.

Once calculations are made and benefits awarded, the recipient can choose how they prefer to receive those benefits. Three options are available, including direct deposit, a debit card that is preloaded with the benefit amount, or by check. Typically, a recipient can collect up to 52 weeks of disability insurance benefits, or the amount of wages in their base period, whichever amount is less.

CALL MUSE DISABILITY TODAY

If you struggle with a disability, you may be experiencing a considerable amount of financial stress. If this is the case, you should know that you aren’t alone. You should also know that there is help available if you are interested in pursuing a claim for disability benefits. At Muse Disability, that’s why we’re here. We know and understand every aspect of the law pertaining to the disability claims process, and we’ll always pursue the best legal strategies on your behalf. If you’re ready to get started, give us a call today.

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