What are the eligibility requirements for California Disability Insurance (SDI)?

To be eligible for California Disability Insurance (SDI), certain criteria must be met. Firstly, individuals must have paid into the SDI program through payroll deductions or been exempted under specific circumstances. Secondly, they must experience a loss of wages due to a non-work-related illness, injury, pregnancy, or childbirth. This includes medical conditions, surgeries, or mental health issues. Additional requirements include being unable to perform regular job duties for at least eight consecutive days, having a non-zero earnings level in the base period, and being under the care or treatment of a licensed medical professional. Moreover, applicants must have earned a certain minimum amount in the base period and be actively seeking or available for suitable employment. Meeting these prerequisites allows individuals to apply for benefits provided by the California SDI program.