The California State Disability Insurance (SDI) program provides short-term Disability Insurance (DI) and Paid Family Leave (PFL) wage replacement benefits. Social Security offers an online disability application you can complete at your convenience.Online: Complete the online application at the California Employment Development Department (EDD) website. I was hoping someone here had personal experience successfully filing an SDI claim as a remote worker living out of state. Any experience is much appreciated! Generally, you can apply for SDI if you are a California resident who can't work because of a physical or mental injury or illness. To file your claim online, follow these steps: You will be assigned an EDD Customer Account Number once you complete the registration process. Get approved for disability benefits today. Once you apply for disability, the SSA will complete an initial review to verify that you meet all technical requirements. California's SSI State Supplement.