STATE DISABILITY INSURANCE (SDI)

To initiate a claim for State Disability benefits, obtain a State Disability Claim form (available from the Business Office at each healthcare facility), complete your portion of the form, and return it to the Business Office. The Business Office will have the Doctor’s Certificate portion completed by your physician, and then forward it to the State.

Disability checks are issued every two weeks, commencing approximately ten working days from the date the claim is received. Benefits begin on the 8th day following the date you first became disabled. In the event of hospitalization or outpatient surgery, benefits will commence on the first day hospitalized or the date of the outpatient surgery. You are entitled to draw state disability benefits for 12 months from date first disabled.

For further information, your may call their statewide toll-free number at 1-800-480-3287. You may also visit their Web site or contact your local office.

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY

You are eligible to apply for Social Security disability as soon as you become disabled. Your local Social Security Office can advise you on the application process (this can be lengthy and we recommend you initiate your claim as soon as possible), as well as the amount of your monthly benefit.

For further information:

The Social Security Administration Web site offers extensive information regarding the entire Social Security disability process.

You may also use their toll-free number: (800)772-1213 or TTY (800)352-0778.

Or apply in person at one of their local offices. To find the office nearest you, use their Online Office Locator Web site or call their toll-free number listed above.

STATE DEPARTMENT OF REHABILITATION

The State Department of Rehabilitation offers retraining for patients who are permanently disabled from their usual occupation, but who wish to receive training for employment in a new field. Patients will continue to receive State Disability Insurance (SDI) benefits while participating in a retraining program.

General information regarding retraining programs can be obtained from the Department of Rehabilitation Web site or by contacting your local office.

You may wish to contact your employer or Human Resources Department to inquire about possible disability benefits to which you may be entitled. If you are covered by a collective bargaining agreement, you may also wish to contact your local union representative regarding possible benefits through your union.