Modesto CA Unemployment Career Center Office

In Modesto, CA, there are two main types of disability benefits you might be referring to:

Social Security Disability Benefits (SSDI/SSI): These are federal programs administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

California State Disability Insurance (SDI): This is a state-run program through the Employment Development Department (EDD) that provides short-term benefits for non-work-related illness or injury.

Here’s how you can get your disability check in Modesto for both:

1. Social Security Disability Benefits (SSDI/SSI)

To apply for Social Security Disability benefits, you generally need to meet the SSA’s definition of disability, meaning your physical or mental condition is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death, and it prevents you from doing substantial gainful activity.

How to Apply:

Online: The fastest and easiest way to apply for Social Security Disability is online through the SSA website: http://www.ssa.gov/applyfordisability/index.htm

By Phone: You can call the SSA’s toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778 for deaf or hard of hearing) from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. They can help you with the application or schedule an appointment.

In Person: You can visit your local Social Security office in Modesto. It’s recommended to call first to make an appointment.

Modesto Social Security Administration Office:

Address: 1521 N Carpenter Road, Suite E-1, Modesto, CA 95351

Phone: 1-888-748-7698 (Modesto Office) or 1-800-772-1213 (Toll-Free)

Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Wednesday, Friday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

What You’ll Need (generally):

Your Social Security number.

Your birth certificate or other proof of birth.

Medical records (doctors’ reports, test results, etc.) detailing your condition.

Information about your work history (employers, earnings).

Your bank’s routing transit number and account number if you want direct deposit.

Important Notes:

The application process can be lengthy.

The SSA will review your application and medical evidence. In some cases, they may require a consultative exam.

If your initial claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. Many people find it helpful to work with a disability attorney or advocate, especially during the appeals process.

2. California State Disability Insurance (SDI)

California’s SDI program provides temporary wage replacement benefits to eligible workers who lose wages due to a non-work-related illness, injury, or pregnancy.

How to Apply:

Online (Fastest): The fastest and easiest way to apply for SDI benefits is through myEDD: edd.ca.gov/en/disability. You should apply no earlier than 9 days and no later than 49 days after your disability starts.

By Mail: You can also apply by mail if you don’t have a valid California driver’s license/ID, a valid Social Security number, or encounter other specific issues. You can find information on how to file a Disability Insurance claim by mail on the EDD website.

What You’ll Need:

Your Social Security number.

A medical certification from a licensed health professional.

Information about your employment.

Receiving Your Check:

For both Social Security and California SDI, the fastest and most secure way to receive your payments is through direct deposit to your bank account. You will typically be asked for your bank information during the application process.

If you have specific questions about your eligibility or application status, it’s always best to contact the relevant agency directly using the phone numbers or visiting the offices listed above.