As someone who went through a similar back injury situation, I just wanted to add that it's totally normal to feel nervous about returning to work, especially with a physical job. Since you mentioned your work involves heavy lifting, you might want to ask your employer about any accommodations they can make during your first few weeks back - like lighter duties or modified tasks. Many employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations under the ADA. Also, don't hesitate to communicate with your doctor if you start having increased pain after returning. It's better to address issues early rather than push through and risk a more serious re-injury. Good luck with your return to work!

I went through something very similar with my SDI claim last year! The remaining benefit amount definitely threw me off at first too. Just to add to what everyone else has said - when you do go back to work, make sure you keep all your documentation from EDD about when your claim officially ended. I had to provide proof to my employer's HR department that my disability leave was properly closed out. Also, if your workplace has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), they might be able to help you navigate the transition back to work and any accommodation requests. The first few weeks back can be mentally challenging too, not just physically. Take care of yourself!

As someone who just started my SDI claim last week, I can't thank everyone enough for all this detailed information! I was so confused about whether I needed to do something every two weeks like unemployment, and Maya's original question perfectly captured my anxiety. Reading through all these responses has been incredibly reassuring. I'm definitely going to set up those debit card text alerts that Santiago mentioned - that sounds like it will save me so much stress. I'm also going to talk to my doctor's office about keeping me informed when they submit recertification paperwork. One question though - does anyone know if there's a way to see the exact dates of your certification period in your EDD online account? I want to set up calendar reminders like Isaac suggested but I'm not sure where to find those dates.

I'm new to this community and just wanted to say how helpful this entire thread has been! I'm in the process of applying for SDI due to a chronic condition and was really worried about the payment process. Reading everyone's experiences - from Maya's initial confusion to all the practical tips from members like Santiago, Oliver, and Grace - has made me feel so much more prepared for what to expect. The idea that payments are automatic but can have timing variations makes total sense, and I love all the proactive strategies people have shared like setting up debit card alerts, tracking payments, and staying in touch with your doctor's office about recertifications. It's reassuring to know there's such a supportive community here sharing real experiences rather than just official government website info that doesn't always tell the whole story. Thank you all for taking the time to help newcomers navigate this system!

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now - missed a deadline on some paperwork and now my payments are stuck in limbo. It's so stressful when you're already dealing with a disability and then have to navigate this bureaucratic maze on top of it. One thing I learned from my case worker is that you can request a "good cause" review for late submissions, especially if you can document that you didn't receive proper notice or had circumstances beyond your control. Might be worth mentioning when you call. Also, don't feel bad about the late submission - their notification system is terrible and so many people miss these deadlines. You're definitely not alone in this struggle!

I've been through this exact same nightmare! Late DE 2593 submissions are unfortunately super common because their notification system is basically non-existent. Here's what saved me: 1. Call the disability line at exactly 8:00 AM - set multiple alarms if you have to 2. When you get through, immediately ask for a "hardship expedite" on your late form processing 3. Mention that the delay is causing financial hardship (they have special protocols for this) 4. Get the rep's name and a case/reference number for everything The frustrating part is they'll likely backdate your payments once processed, but it can take 2-3 weeks. I know that doesn't help with immediate bills, but at least you'll get everything you're owed. Also, if you have any documentation showing you didn't receive proper notice of the deadline (like email confirmations, mail delivery issues, etc.), mention that too. They can sometimes waive late penalties with good cause. Hang in there - this system is broken but you WILL get through it! 💪

Hey there! I'm also pretty new to the SDI process - just filed my claim about a month ago for a knee surgery. From what I experienced and learned from others here, the first payment really is the wildest card in terms of timing. Mine took 9 days, but I've seen people get theirs anywhere from 5 days to 3+ weeks. One thing that helped me stay sane during the wait was setting up text notifications in my SDI Online account - at least then you get pinged when there's any status change instead of constantly logging in to check. Also, if you have a Bank of America account, the EDD debit card payments show up there instantly when processed, versus waiting for direct deposit to clear. Fingers crossed yours comes through quickly! The waiting is definitely the worst part, especially when you're trying to budget around it. Keep us posted on how it goes! 🤞

Welcome to the SDI journey! 😊 I went through this exact same anxiety when I first filed my claim last year. From my experience, you're likely looking at about 7-10 business days for your first payment, but honestly it can vary quite a bit. The good news is that since you already got prompted to certify, it sounds like your paperwork went through without any major issues. A couple of tips that would have saved me some stress: - Download the EDD mobile app if you haven't already - it's actually more reliable than the website for checking status updates - Make sure you have your direct deposit set up correctly in your account (the debit card route takes forever) - Keep your certification confirmation number just in case The waiting period for the first payment is brutal, but once you're in the system, subsequent payments are much more predictable. Hang in there - you've got this! And don't hesitate to ask if you run into any weird issues, this community has been super helpful when I've had questions.

I went through this exact same nightmare a few months ago! What finally worked for me was calling EDD directly and explaining the ID.me situation. They were able to put a note on my file and process my claim through their alternative verification process. The number is hard to get through to, but keep trying early in the morning (like 8:01 AM sharp). Also, if you have any physical documents like your SSN card, birth certificate, or previous tax returns, have them ready - they might ask you to mail or fax copies. Don't lose hope, there are ways around this ID.me mess!

I just went through this exact same issue last month! Here's what finally worked for me: I called the EDD disability line at 1-800-480-3287 and pressed 1 for English, then 4 for disability, then 0 to speak to a rep. When I explained my ID.me was suspended, they transferred me to their technical support team who was able to bypass the ID.me requirement and let me file over the phone. It took about 2 hours total (including hold time) but they processed everything right then and there. Also, make sure you have your Social Security number, previous employer info, and medical documentation ready before you call. The key is being persistent and explaining that the ID.me suspension is preventing you from filing your claim. Don't give up - there are definitely workarounds!