I'm new to this community but going through something very similar - my disability benefits end in June and I'm terrified about the transition. Reading through everyone's experiences here has been incredibly reassuring and informative! A few questions based on what I've learned from this thread: 1. **For those who successfully made the transition** - how long did it typically take to find employment after switching to unemployment? I'm trying to set realistic expectations for how long I might need to rely on the lower UI benefits. 2. **Regarding the medical clearance letter** - should this be from the same doctor who's been managing my disability case, or can it be from my primary care physician? My specialist is pretty hard to get appointments with. 3. **Job search documentation** - I see people mentioning 3 activities per week, but has anyone been audited by EDD to actually show this documentation? How detailed do the records need to be? The financial drop everyone's describing is honestly scary. Going from disability pay to unemployment pay sounds brutal, but it seems like the alternative of having no income at all is worse. Thank you all for sharing your experiences so openly - it's really helping those of us facing this transition feel less alone and more prepared!

As someone who just completed this transition last month, I wanted to share a few additional tips that really helped me: **Before your disability ends:** - Screenshot or download all your disability payment records - you might need them for your UI application - Start researching unemployment offices in your area in case you need in-person help - Consider reaching out to former colleagues/network contacts now to let them know you'll be job searching soon **During the transition:** - Apply for UI online early in the morning (6-7 AM) when the system is most stable - Have your employment history for the last 18 months ready - dates, employer addresses, and gross wages - Be prepared for identity verification - EDD has tightened security and may ask for additional documents **Managing the income drop:** - Contact your landlord/mortgage company BEFORE you miss payments to discuss options - Look into local utility assistance programs - many have funds specifically for people transitioning between benefits - Check if your local library offers free career services or computer access for job searching The whole process took about 2 weeks for me from application to first payment, but having everything prepared in advance made it much smoother. The income drop is tough, but temporary. You've got this, Fernanda! Focus on one step at a time and don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it.

This happened to me last year. Turns out they needed additional info from my doctor but never bothered to tell me. Might be worth asking if they're missing any documentation.

I went through something similar a few months ago. The delay often happens when there's a gap between your original claim period ending and the extension starting - the system needs time to process the new dates. A few things that helped me: 1) Check if your extension paperwork was submitted correctly by your doctor, 2) Look for any "pending" status in your online account, and 3) If it's been more than 21 days, definitely escalate. In my case, it took about 3 weeks total but I did get backpay for the delayed period. Don't give up!

tldr: EDD system sucks, everyone's struggling, no easy fixes. welcome to the thunderdome, OP! ⚡️🏟️

I'm dealing with the exact same ID.me driver's license issue right now! It's incredibly frustrating when the system says your license is linked to another account that you know doesn't exist. I've been banging my head against this wall for weeks. From what I've read here, it seems like persistence with calling is key, even though it's painful. I'm also going to try that suggestion about asking them to check for duplicate records or database errors - that actually makes a lot of sense from a technical standpoint. Has anyone had luck with trying different browsers or devices when doing the ID.me verification? Sometimes these systems can be finicky about that stuff too. Thanks for posting this - at least we know we're not alone in this nightmare! 😤

UPDATE: I spoke with an EDD representative today (thanks for the Claimyr tip - it actually worked!). They confirmed that I likely won't qualify for UI since my work restrictions would limit my ability to accept suitable employment. They suggested I either appeal my doctor's decision on SDI or file for State Disability with a different doctor who better understands my condition. I have an appointment with a gastroenterologist next week for a second opinion. Fingers crossed they'll understand how debilitating IBS can actually be in a customer service environment where bathroom access is restricted!

Good call on getting a specialist involved! Gastroenterologists definitely understand IBS severity better than primary care docs. When you go to your appointment, I'd suggest keeping a detailed symptom diary for the week leading up to it - track frequency, urgency, pain levels, and specifically how it would interfere with work tasks. Also mention if you've tried any medications or dietary changes that haven't helped. The more documentation you have showing this isn't just "manageable stomach issues," the better your case will be. Really hoping this works out for you - customer service with IBS sounds absolutely brutal with those bathroom restrictions!

guys i just got paid after waiting for 2 weeks. there's hope! 🙏

Hey Amara, I totally get your frustration! I went through the same thing last month - certified on a Tuesday and didn't see the money until the following Wednesday. What really helped me was logging into my UI Online account and checking the "Claim History" section to see if it shows as "Paid" there first (like Connor mentioned). Also, double-check that there aren't any weird notices or flags on your account that might be holding things up. If you're still worried after day 7-8, definitely try contacting them or reaching out to your assembly member like Keisha suggested. The waiting game is the worst part, but hang in there! 💪