Another option is to check with your payroll provider if your employer uses one (like ADP, Paychex, etc.). They usually have online portals where you can access all your pay stubs and tax documents. I was able to find my SDI contributions there when I couldn't locate my W-2. Most payroll systems will show you a year-to-date breakdown of all deductions including state disability insurance. Worth a shot if the other methods don't work out!

Just wanted to add that if you're having trouble finding your W-2, you can also request a wage and tax statement transcript directly from the IRS! You can do this online at irs.gov or by calling them. It's free and will show all the same info as your W-2, including that Box 18 SDI amount everyone's talking about. Takes about 5-10 business days to get it by mail, or you can view it instantly online if you can verify your identity. This saved me when I couldn't find my physical W-2 last year! 📋

One more important tip: If your claim is ending earlier than originally estimated by your doctor, it's especially important to notify EDD. While stopping certification is the primary mechanism, having documentation that you properly notified them of early return can prevent complications if there's ever an audit or review of your claim. Also, make sure to keep your doctor's release form in your personal records for at least three years.

Just went through this process myself two months ago! Here's what worked for me: I called EDD early in the morning (around 7:30 AM) on a Tuesday and actually got through after about 45 minutes on hold. The representative told me that while you CAN just stop certifying, it's much better to formally notify them. She helped me update my claim status over the phone and gave me a confirmation number. I also followed up by sending a message through SDI Online with all my details like others mentioned. Haven't had any issues since! The key is calling early and being persistent - don't give up after one try.

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this - the EDD system can be incredibly frustrating! I went through something similar last year where they denied my claim due to a "missed deadline" that was literally impossible to meet given their mail processing times. One thing that really helped me was bringing a printed copy of the USPS tracking information showing the date you sent it versus when it was delivered. Make sure to highlight those dates so it's crystal clear to whoever reviews your case. Also, when you're at the office tomorrow, ask them to check if there are any notes in your file about your case being flagged for the timing issue. Sometimes these cases get automatically flagged in their system and can be resolved more easily than you'd expect. Good luck tomorrow - you've got this! The fact that you responded promptly and have documentation proving it should work in your favor.

This is such a frustrating situation but you're handling it exactly right! I had a very similar experience with EDD SDI last fall where they denied my claim because their verification letter got lost in the mail for almost two weeks. When I finally received it, I had already "missed" their deadline by several days. What saved me was going to the office with a complete paper trail - definitely bring your original verification request letter, all your mailing receipts, tracking information, and the denial letter. The timeline document that @Mei Zhang suggested is spot on. I created something similar and the claims specialist was able to see immediately that the denial was issued unfairly. In my case, they were actually able to reverse the denial during my office visit through what they called a "clerical review" rather than having to go through the full appeal process. It took about 45 minutes of waiting and paperwork, but I walked out with my claim reinstated. Also, don't let them tell you that Priority Mail should have been faster - regular mail delays are considered valid reasons for late responses, especially when you can prove you mailed it the day after receiving the request. You clearly acted in good faith and responded as quickly as possible. Wishing you the best of luck tomorrow! Please do update us - stories like yours help other people know what to expect and how to advocate for themselves.

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this stress on top of caring for a newborn! I just went through something similar a few months ago. One thing that might help while you're waiting to call EDD - check if you received any mail from them that might have gotten lost in the shuffle. Sometimes they send important notices by mail even when you filed online, and with a new baby it's easy for mail to pile up unnoticed. Also, when you do call tomorrow, ask them to email you a confirmation of whatever they tell you or any actions they take on your account. I learned this the hard way when I had to call back multiple times and different reps gave me different information. Having that email trail saved me so much frustration later. The waiting is absolutely the worst part, but everyone here is right that you'll get your backpay once it's resolved. Try to hang in there - you're doing everything right, the system is just being difficult as usual!

I'm going through almost the exact same situation right now! Filed my DE 2501FP three weeks ago after my disability ended and haven't heard anything back. Reading through all these responses has been so helpful - I had no idea there were so many potential issues that could cause delays. One thing I wanted to add that helped me while waiting: I called my local Assembly member's office and they have a constituent services team that can sometimes help with EDD issues. They can't speed up the process, but they were able to confirm that my claim was "in the system" and being processed, which gave me some peace of mind during the waiting period. Also, if you're really struggling financially during the gap, some counties have emergency assistance programs for new parents. It's not much, but it might help cover groceries or utilities while you wait for EDD to get their act together. Hang in there - from everything I'm reading here, it sounds like most people do eventually get their benefits with full backpay, even if the wait is longer than it should be!

Hey Emma! I just went through this exact same situation a few weeks ago and finally got it resolved. For the E324 error, try these steps in order: 1) Use a completely different device (like your phone instead of computer), 2) Make sure you're entering your name EXACTLY as it appears on your most recent tax return - not your Social Security card, but your tax return (this was my issue!), 3) Try registering during off-peak hours like 2-3 AM when their servers aren't overloaded. For the lost form, call the SDI line at 1-800-480-3287 right at 8:00 AM sharp and ask them to flag your case as "urgent replacement needed" - use those exact words. They have a special process for lost mail situations. Also, when you do get someone on the phone, ask them to add a note to your file about the E324 error so the next person you talk to has context. I know it's frustrating but don't give up - you're closer than you think! 💪

I'm dealing with a similar E324 error right now and this thread has been a lifesaver! I've tried the basic troubleshooting but hadn't thought about using a different device or checking the tax return vs Social Security card name difference. That's such a specific detail that could totally be the issue. Emma, based on everyone's advice here, it sounds like the multi-pronged approach is key - try the technical fixes (different browser, incognito mode, different device) while also pursuing the phone/fax/certified mail routes simultaneously. The fact that multiple people have actually resolved the E324 error gives me hope that there IS a solution, it's just a matter of finding the right combination of steps. Thanks to everyone sharing their experiences - this is way more helpful than any official EDD guidance I've found!