Just wanted to add one more tip that helped me when I was dealing with a similar situation - make sure to take screenshots or print copies of each certification you submit, especially the pages where you report your work days and wages. I learned this the hard way when EDD claimed they never received information I was sure I had submitted. Having those records saved me from a huge headache when they did an audit of my claim six months later. Also, if your employer pays you weekly vs. bi-weekly, make sure you understand which pay periods align with your EDD certification periods - they don't always match up perfectly and it can get confusing when reporting wages.

I'm new here but dealing with a similar situation right now! I've been on SDI for a knee injury and my physical therapist wants me to start working 3 days a week next month. Reading through all these responses has been so helpful - I had no idea about the partial disability benefits option. One question I have is about timing - if my doctor clears me to start the reduced schedule mid-way through a certification period, do I report the work for just the days I actually worked in that period, or do I need to wait until the next certification period starts? Also, has anyone had experience with EDD questioning the medical necessity of the reduced schedule? I'm worried they might think I'm trying to game the system even though it's legitimately part of my recovery plan.

Were you able to get this resolved? I'm dealing with the exact same issue with my disability claim right now. Apparently this became a common problem after they switched systems in January, especially for people who had UI claims during Covid. Please update if you found a solution!

I'm dealing with a similar issue right now! My disability claim got stuck because of an old unemployment account from 2019. I tried the tech support line (855) 342-3645 that others mentioned and actually got through after about 45 minutes on hold yesterday morning. The rep was really helpful and explained that this is happening to tons of people since they updated their systems. She was able to merge my account info in about 10 minutes and I was able to submit my claim online right after the call. Definitely try calling that tech support number first thing in the morning - seems like that's when you have the best chance of getting through. Hope your wrist heals quickly!

I'm going through something similar right now - submitted all my docs in person at the local office and still got hit with a disqualification. It's incredibly frustrating when you feel like you've done everything right. From what I've learned lurking in this community, the appeal process seems to be a waiting game but people do get through it. Make sure you keep detailed records of every interaction and document you've submitted. The system might be broken, but don't give up - you paid into this and you deserve those benefits. Hang in there! 🙏

I've been following this thread and wanted to share something that helped me during my SDI identity verification nightmare. After getting my initial disqualification, I realized that the EDD often doesn't properly link documents submitted in-person to your case file - it's like their internal systems don't talk to each other properly. When I wrote my appeal letter, I included a sworn declaration (you can find templates online) stating exactly when, where, and to whom I submitted my documents, plus I attached new copies of everything again. I also requested my case file through a FOIA request to see what they actually had on record - turns out they were "missing" half my docs. The whole process took about 10 weeks total, but the appeal was successful. Don't lose hope - their system is broken but appeals do work if you're thorough and persistent! 🙏

I just went through this exact transition 6 months ago and wanted to share what worked for me! First, definitely start your LTD paperwork immediately - the 30-day processing gap is pretty standard but you can minimize delays by having everything ready. One thing that really helped me during the gap period was contacting 211 (just dial 2-1-1) - they connected me with local emergency assistance programs I had no idea existed. My county had a one-time rental assistance program specifically for people transitioning between disability benefits. Also, talk to your bank about hardship programs - many will defer loan payments or waive fees if you explain your situation with documentation. I was able to get my car payment deferred for two months which gave me breathing room. The stress is real but you're asking the right questions early, which puts you way ahead of where I was. You've got this!

I'm currently on week 48 of SDI and just starting to research this transition myself - this thread has been incredibly eye-opening! I had no idea about the strict 52-week limit or that LTD was through my employer rather than EDD. Reading everyone's experiences is both terrifying and reassuring at the same time. One question I have - for those who successfully transitioned to LTD, did your weekly benefit amount change significantly? I'm currently getting about $1,200/week on SDI and trying to budget for what to expect. Also, has anyone had experience with appealing an LTD denial? My condition is chronic fatigue syndrome which I know can be harder to "prove" than more visible disabilities. Thanks to everyone sharing their stories - it's making me feel less alone in this process and helping me prepare better than I would have otherwise!

I had my IME for back problems about 3 months ago and I know exactly how you're feeling! The anticipation was honestly worse than the actual exam. Here's what helped me get through it: Bring a support person if you can - they can advocate for you if needed and help you remember details afterward. Also, don't feel pressured to do anything that causes severe pain. When the doctor asked me to bend or twist, I went only to my comfort level and said "this is as far as I can go without significant pain increase" and they respected that. The doctor spent a lot of time just talking - asking about my daily routine, what positions are most painful, how I sleep, etc. The physical part was maybe 15-20 minutes total. They watched me walk, sit, stand, and did some gentle pressing on my back to check for tender spots. One thing I wish I'd known - take your regular pain meds beforehand! Don't try to show up in extra pain to "prove" your condition. They want to see your functional level with proper treatment, not at your absolute worst. Write down your main concerns beforehand because it's easy to forget things when you're nervous. You've got this! The fact that you have clear MRI findings showing herniated disc and nerve compression is in your favor.

I went through an IME for my chronic back pain last year and completely understand your anxiety! Here are a few things that helped me prepare: **Before the appointment:** - Make a detailed list of your daily limitations (how long you can sit/stand, what activities cause flare-ups, etc.) - Bring copies of recent MRIs and doctor's notes - Wear comfortable, loose clothing - Take your pain medication as scheduled - don't skip it **During the exam:** - Be completely honest about your pain levels - Don't push yourself beyond your limits - if bending forward causes severe pain, only go as far as you can tolerate - Ask for breaks if you need them - The doctor will likely ask about daily activities, work limitations, and do basic range of motion tests **Important:** You can bring a support person with you! Having someone there as a witness can be really helpful. The exam itself was much less intimidating than I expected. The doctor was professional and didn't try to "catch me faking" - they just wanted to verify that my functional limitations matched my medical records. My benefits continued without any issues. Remember, these doctors see real back injuries all the time. Your MRI results showing herniated disc and nerve compression are objective evidence that will work in your favor. Try to get some rest before Tuesday and don't let the anxiety make your pain worse. You've got this!