CalFresh keeps rejecting my SDI proof because they think I'm on UI too - what EDD document do I need?

I had this EXACT same problem last year! The CalFresh workers sometimes don't understand how EDD benefits work. What you need is an "Award Letter" or "Notice of Computation" from EDD that specifically shows you're on SDI. Then also ask EDD for a "Benefit History" printout that shows your benefit type. Together these prove you're only getting SDI. Your online EDD account should have both documents available to download.

this is so typical of the county!! 🙄 they made me go thru the same nonsense when i had my surgery in 2024. they kept denying my calfresh even tho i sent my sdi award letter like 3 times!!! i finally got approved after i requested a hearing. suddenly they "found" my documentation that they claimed was missing. the system is designed to wear you down until you give up.

My caseworker told me SDI and UI are completely different systems at EDD. You need to login to your EDD account, go to the "Claim History" section, and print everything. There should be something called "Payment Activity" that shows what type of claim you have. The key is getting something that specifically says "Disability Insurance Benefit" on it rather than just showing payment amounts.

Try calling EDD directly and ask for a "Verification of Benefits" letter. Explain exactly what CalFresh is asking for. Sometimes they can generate a custom letter stating you are ONLY receiving SDI benefits and have no active UI claim. I had to do this when applying for rental assistance last winter.

If you're having trouble getting through to EDD on the phone (which is likely), try Claimyr.com. It's a service that basically waits on hold with EDD for you and calls you back when an agent is available. Saved me hours of frustration when I had a similar documentation issue. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8. Once you get an EDD representative, specifically ask for a "Benefit Verification Letter" that states your current claim type is SDI only.

Just to clarify some confusion in this thread: The document you specifically need is called a "Notice of Benefit Determination" from EDD. It clearly states which program you're receiving benefits from (SDI in your case). You can download this directly from your EDD online account under "Claim History" then "Notices and Determination". Print this plus your payment history showing the benefit type. Submit both together to CalFresh with a cover letter explaining these documents prove you are ONLY receiving SDI benefits. If they still give you trouble, request a hearing immediately - they have to prove why they're denying you.

Also wanted to add - if you continue having issues after submitting those EDD documents, you can contact your local legal aid organization for free help. Many have CalFresh specialists who can intervene with the county on your behalf. In my experience, sometimes a call from an advocate gets things moving way faster than when you're dealing with them alone. Hope you get this resolved quickly - no one should have to go hungry over bureaucratic confusion!