As someone who just went through the SDI application process last month, I wanted to share a few additional tips that might help others navigating this system: First, I discovered that EDD actually sends out email notifications about 24-48 hours before your payment is processed if you have email alerts enabled in your account. This was a game-changer for me in terms of budgeting and planning. Second, if you're ever concerned about a delayed payment, there's a specific form (DE 2515) you can submit through your online account to request a payment inquiry. It doesn't speed things up, but it creates a paper trail and sometimes helps identify if there's an issue with your claim. Lastly, I learned the hard way that bank holidays can affect deposit timing even if EDD processes the payment on schedule. My bank observes some holidays that EDD doesn't, so I had a 3-day delay once when a payment was processed on a Friday before a Monday bank holiday. Hope this helps anyone dealing with similar timing uncertainties! The SDI system definitely has its quirks, but once you learn the patterns it becomes much more manageable.

I just wanted to add one more tip that's helped me immensely during my SDI claim - if you're using direct deposit, consider setting up a separate "disability payments" savings account specifically for your EDD deposits. I have mine set up so that as soon as the payment hits, I immediately transfer what I need for bills and essentials to my checking account, and leave a small buffer in the disability account. This has been a lifesaver during those times when payments come 15-16 days instead of exactly 14 days. Having that little cushion means I'm not stressed about timing, and I can actually focus on my recovery instead of constantly checking my bank balance. Plus, if there's ever a processing delay or system issue, I have a few extra days of breathing room. For anyone dealing with irregular payment timing, this approach has given me so much peace of mind. The EDD system may be unpredictable, but at least I can control how I manage the money when it does arrive!

Hey OP, when you do get through to someone, make sure to get their name and ID number. It helps if you need to follow up later.

@Nadia Zaldivar I went through the exact same thing a few months ago! The wage continuation error is super common. Here's what worked for me: When you call (and yes, you'll need to call), be very clear that you made an error on the initial form and need to correct the wage continuation question. They can actually update this in their system without you having to file a whole new claim. Also, if you have any documentation from your employer showing you didn't receive continued wages (like a final paystub or termination letter), have that ready. The whole process took about 2 weeks for me once I got through to someone. Don't give up - you've got this! 💪

I just wanted to chime in as someone who's been navigating EDD disability for a few months now - this thread has been SO helpful! I'm dealing with a similar situation where I might need to extend my benefits due to complications from a workplace injury. Reading through everyone's experiences, it's clear that the DE 2501HC is probably what most of us need when our recovery takes longer than initially expected. It's frustrating that EDD staff use terms like "hardship form" when they really mean "benefit continuation request" - no wonder we all get confused! Connor, I hope your doctor visit goes well next week. Based on what others have shared, I'm going to start preparing for my own potential extension by keeping detailed notes about my limitations and making sure my doctor knows to be very specific about functional restrictions. Thanks to everyone who shared their form numbers and experiences - this is exactly the kind of real-world info that EDD should be providing but somehow never does. This community is a lifesaver when dealing with their confusing bureaucracy!

This whole thread is exactly why I love this community! Connor, I went through almost the identical situation last fall with a herniated disc from a workplace accident. The confusion around EDD forms is maddening - they really need to train their staff better on using consistent terminology. From everything I learned (the hard way), it definitely sounds like you need the DE 2501HC for benefit continuation since your doctor thinks you'll need more recovery time. When I had to extend my benefits, the key was getting my doctor to provide a really detailed assessment. Don't just ask for "more time" - get specific functional limitations documented like "unable to lift over 10 lbs," "cannot stand for more than 15 minutes," "requires frequent position changes," etc. Also, if you do end up needing to visit the EDD office in person like Amina suggested, call ahead to make sure they're doing walk-ins that day. Some locations require appointments now. The office staff are usually way more helpful than the phone representatives - they actually seem to know which forms do what! One last tip: when you submit the DE 2501HC, make copies of EVERYTHING and send it certified mail. EDD has a terrible habit of "losing" paperwork, and having that tracking number has saved me more than once. Hope your back heals up soon and the paperwork nightmare gets resolved quickly!

Have you tried reaching out to your local state representative? Sometimes they can help push things along with EDD. Worth a shot if you keep hitting dead ends.

Oh wow, this exact same thing happened to me last month! The certification period mix-up is more common than you'd think. When I called back, I made sure to reference the previous call and mentioned the rep's name (if you got it). Also, have your claim number ready and be specific about the dates you're missing payment for. It took two calls for me, but I did get the back pay. Don't give up if the first person says they can't help - sometimes different reps have different levels of access to fix these issues. Hope you get it sorted out quickly! 🤞

Anyone else notice that SDI seems to be getting worse lately? I swear it wasn't this bad a few years ago. Budget cuts maybe?

I'm dealing with something similar! After my third attempt sending docs, I started taking screenshots of everything in their online portal and keeping detailed records. One thing that helped me was sending a secure message through the SDI Online portal in addition to mailing/faxing - at least then you have a digital trail showing you contacted them. Also, try calling right at 8 AM when they open - I finally got through that way after weeks of busy signals. Don't give up, you'll get your payment! 💪