Just wanted to jump in here as someone who's been through the EDD disability process multiple times. A few things that might help: 1. **Check your spam folder** - sometimes EDD emails with attachments end up there and the forms display better when opened from spam for some reason 2. **Try different browsers** - I've found that Chrome sometimes displays EDD forms differently than Firefox or Safari 3. **Screenshot everything** - take screenshots of the forms as they appear in your email, even if they look garbled. This can be helpful when you call EDD to show you received them 4. **Ask about expedited processing** - if you mention you're having technical difficulties accessing the forms, sometimes they can flag your case for faster processing once you do get the info submitted The whole system is honestly a mess, but don't let it discourage you from getting the benefits you deserve. Most of the reps are actually pretty understanding about the technical issues once you explain the situation clearly. Also, if you do end up mailing anything, always send it certified mail with tracking. EDD has a habit of "losing" paperwork! 📮

OMG this thread is a lifesaver! 🙌 I literally just got the same DE 2517 form in my email yesterday and was panicking because I couldn't figure out how to fill it out. Reading everyone's experiences here has been so much more helpful than anything on the official EDD website. I'm definitely going to try the suggestions about checking different browsers and my spam folder first - such simple things but I never would have thought of them! And if that doesn't work, I'll call at 8 AM sharp with my form numbers ready and ask for a reference number like everyone's been saying. It's honestly ridiculous that we have to jump through all these hoops just to access basic government forms, but at least we're all helping each other figure it out. This community is amazing - thank you all for sharing your real experiences instead of just the usual bureaucratic runaround! Will definitely update once I get this sorted out. Fingers crossed! 🤞

Based on your follow-up questions, I wanted to clarify a few things: 1. Regarding payment during appeal: Technically, the overpayment is still due while under appeal. However, you can request a temporary hold due to financial hardship or set up a minimal payment plan ($10-20/month) to show good faith while your appeal is pending. 2. Legal representation: While not required for the initial appeal, if it moves to an Administrative Law Judge hearing, having representation is beneficial. As someone mentioned, check for legal aid services in your area. 3. Documentation strategy: Focus on having your doctor specifically address why your condition prevented you from working at THAT job. Mental health disabilities are legitimate disabilities under SDI, but the documentation needs to be explicit about how your condition prevented you from performing your specific job functions. Keep us updated on your progress. Many appeals are successful with proper documentation!

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this stress on top of everything else you've been through! As someone new to this community but familiar with mental health struggles in toxic work environments, I want to emphasize that your condition sounds completely legitimate and you deserve those benefits. One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet - when you gather your medical documentation for the appeal, make sure your doctor specifically addresses the timeline. Since your anxiety/depression was directly related to your workplace, having clear documentation that shows when symptoms started, how they worsened due to the hostile environment, and why leaving that specific job was medically necessary could be crucial. Also, if you have any documentation about the workplace harassment (emails, HR complaints, witness statements, etc.), include those too. They help establish that your condition wasn't just "job dissatisfaction" but a legitimate medical response to an abusive situation. You've got this! The fact that your doctor is willing to provide additional documentation shows they believe in your case. Don't let your former employer's tactics intimidate you - they're probably hoping you won't appeal.

PSA: If you're really in a bind, some food banks and community orgs offer emergency assistance for folks waiting on disability payments. Might be worth checking out if you're struggling.

I'm going through the exact same thing right now - it's been almost 4 weeks since my last payment and I'm getting really stressed about rent and bills. The waiting and uncertainty is honestly the worst part. I tried calling every day last week but like others said, either can't get through or get disconnected after waiting forever. Has anyone had luck with faxing documents or sending certified mail? I'm wondering if that might get more attention than just calling.

wait i'm confusted... is SDI the same as disability? or is that something else? i thought those were diffrent things??

Update: I tried the Claimyr service someone mentioned and actually got through to EDD this morning! The representative explained that I needed to formally close my UI claim before SDI could process my claim. They helped me file the appropriate forms and said I should submit a new SDI application with updated medical documentation. They also put notes in my file about the situation. They said I should still file an appeal for the denial just to be safe, but that the new application with the UI claim properly closed should go through more smoothly. Thank you everyone for your help! Will update when I hear more.

This thread has been incredibly informative! I'm new to this community and currently on SDI for a shoulder injury. Reading through Romeo's situation and everyone's responses has really helped me understand how the return-to-work process works with SDI. The key takeaways about reporting wages earned (not when you receive payment) and getting partial benefits for your return day if wages are less than your daily benefit amount are so valuable. It's reassuring to see that EDD does handle these transitions fairly, even if the process isn't always intuitive. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences and knowledge - this is exactly the kind of practical guidance that makes navigating disability benefits so much easier!

This is such a helpful thread! I'm currently on SDI for a wrist injury and was actually wondering about this exact scenario since my doctor mentioned I might be able to return to work part-time soon. Reading through Romeo's experience and everyone's detailed explanations has really clarified how the partial payment system works. The distinction between reporting wages earned versus when you actually receive the paycheck is something I never would have considered - that could have really tripped me up! It's also reassuring to see that EDD does pay for remaining claim days even after you return to work. Thanks Romeo for sharing your situation and follow-up, and thanks to everyone else for the thorough explanations. This community is incredibly valuable for understanding these complex benefit systems!