Hey Jamal, I just went through this exact situation a few months ago! The most important thing is to act fast - you really don't want to miss that 30-day appeal deadline that Liam mentioned. Here's what worked for me: I went to my local EDD office in person instead of trying to call (saved me hours of frustration). They were able to pull up my case immediately and print out a copy of my denial notice on the spot. Also, don't forget to request your complete claim file - it's your right and it'll show you exactly what medical records they reviewed. Sometimes they're missing key documentation that could change everything. If you're still struggling to get info, try reaching out to your local state assembly member's office. They have caseworkers who can help navigate EDD issues. Good luck! 🤞

Hey Jamal! I went through a similar SDI appeal situation last year and it was definitely stressful at first, but it worked out in the end. A few things that really helped me: 1. **Document everything** - Take screenshots of your online account, save all emails, and write down dates/times of any phone calls 2. **Get your medical providers involved** - Sometimes the initial denial is because they need more detailed documentation from your doctor about how your condition affects your ability to work 3. **Check if you qualify for expedited processing** - If your condition is severe or you're facing financial hardship, they might be able to fast-track your appeal The waiting is the worst part, but hang in there! The fact that you're being proactive and asking for help is already a good sign. Feel free to update us on how it goes - this community has been super supportive when I was dealing with my case. You've got this! 💪

I went through almost the exact same situation in 2024! My employer relocated from downtown to the suburbs while I was on SDI for depression/anxiety, and the commute went from 15 minutes to over an hour in traffic. Here's what I learned: EDD approved my UI claim, but it took some persistence. The key things that helped me: 1. I got a letter from my psychiatrist that specifically mentioned how long commutes trigger my anxiety and would interfere with my recovery 2. I documented everything - screenshots of Google Maps showing travel times during rush hour, gas cost calculations, etc. 3. I made it clear to EDD that I was willing and able to work, just not at that specific location due to the material change in job conditions The tricky part is that EDD will ask if you're "able and available" for work. You need to show that yes, you can work, but this particular job is no longer suitable due to the relocation + your medical condition. Don't let them frame it as you being unable to work period - that's different. Also, start the process NOW while you're still on SDI. Get all your documentation ready so you can file for UI immediately when your disability benefits end. The transition can be smoother than people think if you're prepared!

I'm in a very similar situation right now! My company relocated while I was on SDI for anxiety, and my commute went from 12 miles to 28 miles. Reading through all these responses is giving me hope that I might have a case too. One thing I wanted to add - my therapist mentioned that California's Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) also has provisions about reasonable accommodations for mental health conditions. If your employer hasn't even tried to discuss alternative arrangements (like remote work options, flexible scheduling, or a transfer to a closer location), that could strengthen your case with EDD. Also, @Gemma Andrews, I'd suggest documenting not just the mileage increase but also the actual time difference during your typical work hours. My new commute is only 16 miles longer but adds 45 minutes each way due to traffic patterns. That extra 1.5 hours daily really impacts my anxiety management routine (exercise, meditation, etc.) that my doctor prescribed. Has anyone dealt with EDD asking for proof that you looked for other suitable work in your area? I'm worried they might say I need to job search first before claiming the commute issue.

Thanks everyone for the explanations! I understand what happened now. The 7 days is basically a deductible period that I don't get paid for, and since I only had 4 additional days of disability after that, AND I used sick pay for the first 6 days, I basically didn't qualify for any benefit payment. Seems like SDI only makes sense for longer disability periods. I'll know better for next time, though hopefully I won't need surgery again! I may still try calling EDD just to confirm this understanding.

This is such a common misunderstanding! I went through something similar with my maternity leave last year. The key thing to remember is that SDI is really designed as income replacement for when you have NO other income coming in due to disability. Since your employer covered those first 6 days with sick pay, SDI views that as you already having income replacement for that period. It's frustrating because you're paying into SDI through payroll deductions, but the system assumes your employer benefits come first. For future reference, some people choose to save their sick days and go unpaid earlier to maximize their SDI benefits, but that obviously depends on your financial situation and employer policies.

As someone who's navigated this process before, I'd recommend also asking your doctor to include any functional limitations in the note - like how many hours you can sit, stand, or walk, and if you have trouble lifting, concentrating, or performing repetitive tasks. The EDD reviewers really look for specific details about how your condition affects your ability to do typical job functions. Also, if your condition fluctuates (good days vs bad days), make sure that's documented too. Don't be afraid to follow up with your doctor if the initial note seems too brief - they're usually willing to add more detail if you explain what's needed. Best of luck with your claim! 🤞

Going through the disability claim process can definitely feel overwhelming at first, but you're taking the right steps by asking for guidance! One thing that really helped me was preparing a timeline of my medical history and symptoms before meeting with my doctor - it made sure I didn't forget anything important during the appointment. Also, if you have any medical records, test results, or previous doctor visits related to your condition, bring copies with you. The more comprehensive documentation you can provide upfront, the smoother the process tends to go. Don't hesitate to ask your doctor questions about what they're including in the note - you have every right to understand what's being submitted on your behalf. You've got this! 🙏

guys. GUYS. i literaly just got off the phone with them after 2 months of trying. heres the secret: call the spanish line and press 2 for english. way less wait time. your welcome 😎

I'm going through the exact same thing right now - 5 weeks and counting in "pending" status. It's so stressful not knowing when (or if) it'll get resolved. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences and tips, especially @Chloe Taylor for that comprehensive breakdown. I'm going to try the early morning calling strategy and also look into contacting my state rep. This whole situation really highlights how broken the system is. Hoping we all get through this soon! 🤞