am i the only 1 who thinks the whole SDI system needs a complete overhaul? its 2023 ffs, why are we dealing with disappearing claims and hour-long hold times? 🤡

Have you tried checking your claim status through their automated phone system? Sometimes it updates faster than the website.

This is exactly the kind of confusion that trips up so many people! I work in HR and see this misunderstanding constantly. What often happens is that employers see doctors completing the medical certification part of SDI claims and assume they can handle the whole process. But you're absolutely right to question this - the employee MUST initiate the claim first. One tip I always give people: when you file online through SDI Online, make sure to print or save your confirmation number. Then when you contact your doctor's office, give them that confirmation info along with your claim number. This helps them quickly locate your case in their SDI system and ensures there's no delay in completing their medical certification. Also, since you mentioned severe back issues with a herniated disc, make sure your doctor provides detailed information about your functional limitations and expected recovery timeline. The more specific they are about how your condition affects your ability to work, the smoother your approval process will be. Hope your back heals up and your claim gets processed quickly!

As someone who went through this exact confusion last year, I can confirm what everyone else is saying - your employer has the right idea but wrong details. YOU must file the initial SDI claim, then your doctor completes their medical portion. One thing I learned the hard way: don't wait to file thinking you need to coordinate with your doctor first. I delayed filing for almost a week because I thought I needed my doctor's paperwork ready before starting. Big mistake! The 7-day waiting period starts from when YOU file your claim, not when the doctor submits their part. So every day you delay filing is a day of potential benefits lost. File online through SDI Online today if possible - it's much faster than paper forms. Then call your doctor's office with your confirmation number. Most offices are familiar with the SDI process and will complete their portion within 1-2 business days once they get the EDD notification. Also, since you mentioned herniated disc issues, make sure you have recent MRI or imaging reports available for your doctor to reference when they complete the medical certification. The more detailed medical documentation they can include about your functional limitations, the better your chances of quick approval. Hope this helps and that your back improves soon!

did you ever get it fixed? I am getting the same error message now.

I had this exact same issue last month! The ID.me verification completed fine, but then I couldn't get back into the EDD portal. What finally worked for me was waiting 24-48 hours after the ID.me verification before trying to access EDD again. Apparently there's some delay in their systems syncing up. Also try using an incognito/private browser window when you go back to the EDD site. Hope this helps!

I swear, dealing with EDD is like trying to nail jello to a wall 🤣 Good luck OP!

Hey Anderson! I just went through this process last month. One thing I'd add to the great advice already given - ask them specifically about the timeline for administrative law judge hearings if your appeal goes that route. Also, if you haven't already, request a copy of your complete file. Sometimes there are errors in their records that can help your case. And definitely ask if there's a supervisor available if the first person you talk to can't give you clear answers. Stay strong - the process is frustrating but don't give up! 💪

I had my SDI extension call about 3 months ago and it was actually pretty straightforward! The key things that helped me were: 1) Having my doctor's most recent report that clearly stated I wasn't ready to return to work yet, 2) Being able to explain in simple terms how my condition was still affecting my ability to do my job, and 3) Having my original claim number handy. The whole call took maybe 15-20 minutes. One thing I wish I knew beforehand - they might ask about any part-time work or income you've had while on disability, so be prepared to discuss that honestly if it applies to you. You've got this! The anticipation is usually worse than the actual call.

I'm going through the same thing right now! Just got my call-in notice yesterday and I've been reading through all these comments - you all are lifesavers! 🙏 I'm feeling way less anxious now. One question though - for those who've done this, how long did it take to get your extension approved after the call? I'm trying to plan my finances and wondering if there's usually a gap in payments or if it's pretty seamless. Also, should I be worried if my doctor's note is from 3 weeks ago, or is that still recent enough? Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences!