States With Most Generous State Disability Insurance

2026

Top 5 US states with state-mandated disability insurance (SDI) programs in 2026, ranked by maximum weekly benefit and contribution structure.

Written and reviewed by Konstantin Iakovlev · Methodology · Updated

Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, financial, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the information you provide and current rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.

Ranked by maximum weekly benefit (highest first)

State-administered Short-Term Disability Insurance maximum weekly benefit for 2026, plus contribution structure. Coverage requires employer participation in state plan or approved private alternative. SSDI (federal) covers permanent disabilities only.

  1. 1

    California

    California — California State Disability Insurance (SDI). Max weekly benefit $1,681 (2026, highest among state programs). Employee contribution 1.2% of wages (NO wage cap as of 2024). Up to 52 weeks of partial wage replacement. EDD-administered with Voluntary Plan option.

    paycheck → income tax → property tax → cost of living →
  2. 2

    New Jersey

    New Jersey — NJ Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI). Max $1,081/week. Employee 0.23% on first $176,100 of wages + employer experience-rated. Up to 26 weeks. Combined with FLI for paid family leave on same payroll deduction.

    paycheck → income tax → property tax → cost of living →
  3. 3

    Rhode Island

    Rhode Island — RI Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI). Max $1,063/week. Employee-only 1.3% on first $89,200. Up to 30 weeks (LONGEST in country). Funded ENTIRELY by employee contributions (unique among state SDI programs).

    paycheck → income tax → property tax → cost of living →
  4. 4

    Hawaii

    Hawaii — Hawaii Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI). Max $830/week. Employee contribution capped at 0.5% of wages, max $6.84/week — employer covers remainder. Up to 26 weeks. Notable structural difference: requires employer to maintain a state-approved plan.

    paycheck → income tax → property tax → cost of living →
  5. 5

    New York

    New York — NY Statutory Short-Term Disability (DBL). Max $170/week — frozen since 1989, by FAR the lowest. Employee contribution 0.5% on first $120/week (max $0.60/week); employer pays balance. Up to 26 weeks. Most large NY employers provide supplemental private STD because $170/week is inadequate.

    paycheck → income tax → property tax → cost of living →

Methodology note: This listicle is curated based on Q1 2026 data verified against each state's Department of Revenue + Tax Foundation 50-state reports. Rankings reflect tax structure and are not investment advice. Cost of living, employment opportunities, climate, and personal preferences should also factor into relocation decisions.