Thank you everyone for all this helpful advice! I'm going to fill out both sections of the form today, make sure all my dates line up correctly, and have my tax documentation ready in case they request it. I'll also try that Claimyr service to speak with an EDD rep directly about my specific situation. It's such a relief to hear from other self-employed people who've successfully navigated this process. I'll update once my claim is processed!

As someone who just went through this process with my own business 6 months ago, I wanted to add a few more tips that helped me avoid delays: 1. When you submit your claim, take photos or scan everything before mailing - I had to resubmit documents that got "lost" in their system 2. If you've been inconsistent with SDI payments in the past (like I was during slow business periods), be prepared to provide extra documentation showing your quarterly filings 3. Consider starting your claim exactly 4 weeks before your due date even if you feel fine - you can always work a few more days and just report them, but starting the claim early ensures the paperwork is in motion 4. Keep a detailed log of every interaction with EDD including dates, times, and rep names - this saved me when there was confusion about my case The whole process took about 3 weeks for me once I got everything submitted correctly. You're doing great by asking these questions now rather than scrambling after the baby arrives! Best of luck with everything! 🍀

This is such a common issue unfortunately! I went through the same thing about 6 months ago. In my case, it turned out to be a combination of problems - my employer had submitted incomplete paperwork AND there was a processing delay on EDD's end. What really helped me was creating a detailed timeline of all my dates (leave start, doctor visits, when forms were submitted, etc.) and having that ready when I finally got through to someone. Also, don't just rely on phone calls - I submitted a written inquiry through their online portal AND sent a certified letter. Sometimes having multiple touchpoints in their system helps move things along. The whole process took about 5 weeks to resolve, but I did get all my back pay. Stay persistent and document everything - you've got this! 💪

I'm dealing with this exact same situation right now! Just got my first PFL payment and it was only for one day when I expected much more. Reading through all these responses is really eye-opening - I had no idea there were so many potential causes like employer paperwork issues, date discrepancies, or gaps between SDI and PFL. I'm going to start by checking my medical certification forms for any date errors, then contact my HR department to verify they submitted everything correctly. It's frustrating that such small administrative issues can cause such big problems with payments we're entitled to. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences - this community is a lifesaver when dealing with the EDD maze! 🤞

I just went through this same ordeal last month and finally broke through! Here's my winning strategy: Download an auto-dialer app (I used "Auto Redial" on Android) and set it to call the main EDD number every 30 seconds starting at 7:58 AM. I know it sounds excessive, but I got through on attempt #73 after 2 hours. Also, once you're in the phone tree, press 1 for English, then 1 again for UI claims, then 2 for existing claims, then 4 for claim questions. This specific sequence seemed to have shorter hold times than other options. Most importantly - DON'T HANG UP even if you're on hold for 2+ hours. I made that mistake twice and had to start over. The reps are actually really helpful once you get through, so it's worth the wait. Stay strong! 💪

I totally feel your frustration Miguel! I went through this exact same nightmare about 2 months ago. What finally worked for me was calling the technical support line (1-800-300-5616) instead of the main claims line. I know it sounds weird, but when they answer, just explain that you're having trouble accessing your claim online and need to speak with someone about your account. They can actually help with most claim issues and the wait times are usually way shorter. I got through in about 20 minutes versus the hours I was spending on the main line. Also, definitely try calling right at 8 AM - I set an alarm and would start calling at 7:59 AM sharp. The first 30 minutes after they open seems to be the golden window. Don't lose hope, you'll get through! The system is absolutely terrible but there are people there who want to help once you can actually reach them. 🙏

I just switched to direct deposit about 6 months ago and it's been a game changer! No more worrying about mail delays or lost checks. One thing I'd add to all the great advice here - make sure you keep your old checking account open for at least 2-3 months after making the switch, just in case there are any delays or issues. Also, I found that calling on Tuesday or Wednesday mornings around 8:30 AM gave me the best chance of getting through to someone quickly. The whole process took about 2 weeks to fully take effect for me. Good luck!

Just wanted to share my recent experience - I successfully switched to direct deposit last week using the online method that Isabella mentioned! It was surprisingly straightforward once I found the right section on the website. The key was making sure I had my routing number and account number written down correctly (I double and triple checked). The whole online process took maybe 10 minutes, and I got a confirmation email right away. Now I'm just waiting to see my next payment hit the account directly. For anyone still struggling with phone calls, definitely try the online route first - it saved me so much frustration!

Hey OP, hang in there. I know it's tough, but try to stay busy while you wait. Maybe pick up a side gig or learn a new skill? It helped me stay sane during my unemployment saga.

I went through something similar last year and it's incredibly stressful. One thing that helped me was reaching out to my state assembly member's office - they have caseworkers who specifically handle EDD issues and can sometimes get your case escalated. Also, make sure you keep certifying every two weeks even if you're not getting paid, because those weeks can get backpaid once your issue is resolved. The EDD system is definitely overwhelmed right now, but don't give up! Document everything and keep trying different approaches.