Probably a bit too late for this, but for future viewers in California. When I calculated what my WC benefits would be while recovering, it was about $200 less per week than SDI (State Disability Insurance). Since we CA pay state tax, we also pay SDI (deducted from your payroll check). Therefore, if you're not on WC, you are eligible for SDI (see:
Employment Development Department).
I'm in HR and handle our leave of absence even for those not on WC, and they receive disability benefits.
If you (if self-employed) or your employer did not pay into the account, then you're up a creek. If you're employer didn't pay it and deduct it from your check, I would report that employer to the authorities (
The U.S. Department of Labor Home Page, Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao). This is a legal mandate for all CA employers.
