Have you tried reaching out on social media? Sometimes tweeting at the official SDI account can get their attention.

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! My payment was supposed to come last Friday and still nothing. I've been checking my account obsessively. It's so stressful when you're depending on that money for basic expenses. I'm planning to try calling first thing Monday morning like someone suggested. Hang in there - hopefully we both get this sorted out soon! 💪

I'm dealing with a very similar situation right now and this entire thread has been a lifesaver! I've been at my current job for just 3 months when I injured my knee and need surgery. My previous employer where I worked for 5 years paid significantly more, so I was really panicking about my potential benefit amount. Reading everyone's experiences, especially the detailed explanation from Rachel about how the base period system works automatically, has completely eased my anxiety. It's incredible how this community comes together to help each other navigate these stressful situations. I'm filing my claim tomorrow and feeling much more confident thanks to all the advice shared here. For anyone else reading this who's in a similar boat - don't let fear hold you back from filing. The system really does seem designed to protect workers who change jobs. Thank you all for sharing your stories!

I just wanted to add something that might be helpful for anyone filing their claim - make sure you have your Social Security card handy when you apply online. I got halfway through the application and realized I needed the exact number format they were asking for, and it saved me from having to start over. Also, if you worked for any large companies during your base period, they might have slightly different names in the EDD system than what you remember (like "ABC Corporation" instead of just "ABC Company"), so don't stress if the auto-complete doesn't find your employer right away. You can always call EDD to clarify any employer information issues after you submit your initial claim. The most important thing is getting that filing date locked in so your waiting period starts and you don't lose any potential benefit days!

I just went through this exact process last week and wanted to add a few more tips that really helped me! After reading through everyone's advice here, I uploaded my paper extension form through the Contact EDD portal and it was approved in 2 days. A couple additional things I learned: 1) If you have a multi-page form, number the pages in your submission message (like "Page 1 of 3, Page 2 of 3") so they know if anything gets missed. 2) I took a screenshot of the "message sent" confirmation page as backup proof of submission. 3) The EDD rep I eventually spoke to mentioned they actually prefer the upload method now because it goes directly into their digital workflow, whereas mailed forms have to be manually scanned first which adds time. My doctor was also one of those stubborn "paper only" types, but honestly the electronic submission ended up being faster and more reliable than traditional mail. Don't stress too much - the system really does work when you follow all the detailed steps everyone shared here!

This whole thread has been absolutely invaluable! I'm currently dealing with the same frustrating situation - my doctor took 2+ weeks to complete my extension form and also refuses to do electronic submissions. I was genuinely panicking about potential delays and benefit interruptions, but reading through everyone's detailed experiences has completely changed my approach. The step-by-step guidance from Mateo about including specific claim information, Fatima's tip about logging into SDI Online first, and all the scanning quality advice has given me a clear roadmap. It's honestly shocking that in 2025 we still have to work around doctors who won't adapt to digital systems, but I'm so grateful this community exists to share these workarounds. I'm going to follow the upload method tonight - scan as high-quality PDF, include claim number and SSN, use the recommended subject line format, and take screenshots for backup. Seeing so many success stories with 2-4 day processing times versus weeks for mail gives me huge relief. Thank you all for turning a stressful bureaucratic nightmare into a manageable process!

Just went through this exact process last month for my ACL recovery! One thing I wish I had known earlier is that you can actually call your doctor's office a few days before your appointment to let them know you'll need the DE 2525XX extension form submitted. This gives them time to have it ready and ensures they don't forget during your visit. My orthopedic surgeon's office was super busy and I could tell they appreciated the heads up. Also, if your doctor mentions any specific restrictions or limitations during your appointment (like no lifting over 10 pounds, limited range of motion, etc.), make sure those details get included on the form - it can help support your case if EDD has any questions about the extension. The whole process was much smoother than I expected once I understood what needed to happen. Hope your recovery goes well!

I'm new to this community but going through a very similar situation right now! My disability claim for ankle surgery is set to end in two weeks, but my physical therapist says I need at least another month before I can safely return to my job (I work in a warehouse). Reading through all these responses has been incredibly helpful - I had no idea about the DE 2525XX form or that timing was so critical. I'm scheduling an appointment with my orthopedic surgeon ASAP to get the extension paperwork submitted. One question though - if my doctor thinks I might need even more time beyond the initial extension (like if recovery takes longer than expected), can I do multiple extensions or is there a limit? I'm worried about planning for just 4 more weeks if I might actually need 6-8 weeks. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - this thread is a lifesaver for someone navigating this process for the first time!

I'm going through this exact same situation right now! My doctor's office has done this THREE times despite me explaining the issue each time. What's really helped me is creating a one-page "cheat sheet" that I give them every time I need an extension form filled out. It has the specific field circled in red with "LEAVE BLANK - DO NOT FILL" written next to it, plus a brief explanation of why. I also started asking to speak directly with whoever will be filling out the form, not just the receptionist. It's extra work but it's saved me from more delays. Also, pro tip: if you do have to resubmit corrected paperwork, ask EDD for the confirmation number when you fax it - that way you have proof they received it if there are any issues later!

Oh wow, I'm dealing with this exact same issue right now! My doctor's office keeps automatically filling in return-to-work dates even when I specifically tell them not to. It's like they think they're being helpful but they're actually making everything worse. Reading through all these responses is so helpful - I had no idea about the fax confirmation number trick or the highlighting approach. I'm definitely going to create one of those cheat sheets that Santiago mentioned. It's honestly ridiculous that we have to go to these lengths just to get a form filled out correctly, but if it saves months of payment delays, it's worth it. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - it's good to know I'm not alone in this mess!