California SDI Benefit Calculator
SDI pays 90% of wages to lower earners and 70% to everyone else, up to about $1,765 a week. Contributions have had no annual wage cap since 2024.
If your average weekly wage is below 70% of the State Average Weekly Wage (about $1,252/week for 2026), SDI replaces 90% of your wages. Everyone else gets 70%, capped at about $1,765/week.
Enter your average weekly wage to see your estimated SDI benefit.
CA SDI Benefit Calculator
Estimated Weekly SDI Benefit
How this is calculated
The tool compares your average weekly wage to 70% of the 2026 State Average Weekly Wage ($1,789, so the threshold is about $1,252). Below that threshold, your benefit is 90% of your average weekly wage; at or above it, your benefit is the greater of 70% of your wage or $1,127 (90% of the threshold), so earning a little more never lowers your benefit. The minimum is $50 a week.
In both cases the result can't exceed the 2026 statutory maximum of about $1,765 a week. SB 951 created the two-rate structure, which pays lower earners a higher percentage, and removed the annual SDI wage cap. The old system used one flat percentage and capped wages, so calculators built before 2025 may still show that math.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of my wages does California SDI replace?
90% of your average weekly wage if you're a lower earner (below 70% of the State Average Weekly Wage), or 70% if you earn at or above that threshold. This tiered structure took effect January 1, 2025 under SB 951.
Is there a maximum SDI weekly benefit?
Yes. For 2026, the maximum weekly benefit is about $1,765, however high your wages are.
Is there still a wage cap on SDI payroll deductions?
No. Since January 1, 2024, all wages are subject to the SDI payroll deduction with no annual cap. Higher earners now pay SDI on their full income. Before 2024 the deduction stopped at a wage cap.
How is my average weekly wage determined?
It is generally based on your highest-earning quarter in a base period before your claim, converted to a weekly figure. Unemployment benefits are calculated in a similar way, though the base period rules differ.
Is SDI the same as Paid Family Leave?
No, but they share the same wage replacement formula and payroll tax funding. SDI covers your own non-work-related illness/injury or pregnancy; Paid Family Leave covers time off to care for a family member or bond with a new child.
This tool provides an educational estimate only and is not affiliated with the EDD. Confirm your exact base period and benefit amount at edd.ca.gov.