What is TDI?
TDI is short for Temporary Disability Insurance.It provides benefit payments to insured RI workers for weeks of unemployment caused by disability. It also protects workers against wage loss resulting from a non-work related illness or injury, and is funded exclusively by Rhode Island workers.
Who Can Get TDI?
To be eligible, an individual must meet certain earnings requirements and be medically certified by a physician as unable to work.
To be eligible for TDI benefits, you must have worked for a Rhode Island employer subject to the TDI laws. Also, you must have earned at least $7380 in either your Base Period*. If you did not earn this amount, you may also be eligible if you meet all the following:
- You earned at least $1230 in one of your Base Period quarters, and
- You earned total Base Period wages of at least one and one-half times your highest single quarter earnings, AND
- You earned total Base Period wages of at least $2460.
*The Base Period is the period of time looked at to determine if you have earned sufficient wages to be eligible. Normally, your Base Period consists of the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before the starting date of your new claim. The calendar quarters are: January 1 through March 31; April 1 through June 30; July 1 through September 30; and October 1 through December 31.
How Much Can I Receive?
Your Benefit Rate is your basic weekly payment amount, excluding Dependency Allowances. It is equal to 4.62% of the amount you were paid in the Base Period quarter in which you earned the most wages. You will receive a Benefit Computation Statement that shows your rate and the wage information used to determine it. Once your Benefit Rate is determined, it remains the same for your entire Benefit Year. The maximum weekly benefit rate that may be paid is $561.
In addition to your weekly Benefit Rate, you may receive a Dependency Allowance if you have children under 18 who are dependent on you. This allowance may also be paid for a child 18 or older who is physically or mentally handicapped and unable to work.
How Do I Apply for TDI?
If you become ill or injured and a doctor's examination shows that you cannot work for at least 7 consecutive days, you should apply for TDI benefits as soon as possible. The request for an application process is now automated through the telephone system. Call (401) 462-8420 and select option one for an application. You will be asked to provide your name, address, social security number, phone number, and the date you were first unable to work due to illness/injury.
