Can I apply for Disability Insurance if I am self-employed?

Yes, self-employed individuals in California can apply for Disability Insurance (DI). To be eligible, you must be paying State Disability Insurance (SDI) deductions and meet the income requirements. Self-employed Californians can voluntarily contribute to the DI program through the Employment Development Department (EDD). When applying, you will need to provide your recent earnings information, and your DI benefits will be calculated based on your reported contributions. It's important to note that if you decide to enroll in DI voluntarily, you must do so within 5 to 60 days from when your business starts or when the SDI law applies to you. Self-employed individuals can access this crucial safety net, ensuring they receive temporary disability benefits in case of injury or illness that prevents them from working.