After determining eligibility, you must file a claim for disability insurance benefits (DE 2501). Please feel free to submit your claim online or by mail. The earliest you can submit your claim is nine days after your disability started but no later than 49 days. The date you became unable to work is the start date of your disability. It is important to note that you cannot change the start date of your disability during the claims process. During this time, you must have your doctor certify your disability. They can do so through SDI Online or by mailing part B of the DE 2501 claim form.  Once you have completed all the necessary documentation, the EDD will review your claim. So that you know, you will generally receive a response within two weeks of submitting your claim. However, if the EDD requests additional information, it could be longer. Once the EDD has determined your eligibility, you will serve a seven-day waiting period before receiving benefits.