Just wanted to add that when I made the switch last year, I learned that you can actually expedite the process if you have a terminal illness or urgent medical situation. There's a special expedited review process available. Also, make sure to keep detailed records of all your calls and correspondence - dates, times, who you spoke with, and what was discussed. This helped me immensely when I had to follow up on my case. The whole system is frustrating, but persistence really does pay off. Hang in there!

Hey @Aidan Hudson, I went through this exact transition about 6 months ago and I totally understand how overwhelming it feels. One thing that really helped me was creating a checklist to stay organized throughout the process. Here's what I wish someone had told me upfront: Make copies of EVERYTHING before you submit - seriously, the EDD has a habit of losing documents. Also, when you're gathering your medical records, don't just get the recent stuff. Get everything related to your condition going back at least a year if possible. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case. One more tip - if your doctor is slow with paperwork (like mine was), consider offering to pick up the completed forms in person rather than waiting for them to mail it. That saved me about a week in the process. The income gap is real and scary, but you'll get through it. Start reaching out to local food banks or assistance programs now if you think you'll need them. There's no shame in getting help while you're waiting for the system to work. You've got this! Keep us updated on how things go. This community has your back! 💙

For SDI certification, you have two options: 1. Online certification through SDI Online (most convenient) 2. Paper forms (DE 2500A) that are mailed to you I recommend setting up the online option if possible. It's much faster and you don't have to worry about mail delays. Regarding your earlier question about processing times - if you're facing an urgent financial situation while waiting for your SDI claim to process, you might qualify for an expedited payment. You would need to contact EDD directly and explain your hardship situation. This is another reason why getting through to an actual representative can be so important.

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this on top of your injuries! I went through something similar after a workplace injury last year. Here's what I wish someone had told me upfront: **Immediate steps:** 1. DO NOT certify for any UI weeks where you were unable to work due to your injuries - this is crucial 2. File your SDI claim ASAP through SDI Online (edd.ca.gov) 3. Get your doctor to complete the medical certification within 30 days **Important timing detail:** Since your accident was 3 days after filing UI, make sure you're crystal clear about the exact date your disability began when filling out the SDI application. This will help avoid any confusion. **Money-saving tip:** While waiting for SDI to process, check if you qualify for emergency medical coverage through Covered California or Medi-Cal due to your income change. Medical bills from car accidents add up fast. One last thing - if the other driver was at fault, their insurance should be covering your medical expenses and lost wages. Don't let SDI be your only option if someone else caused this mess. You might be entitled to much more than what SDI provides. Hope you heal up quickly! This community has your back. 💪

I heard they just hired a bunch of new people. Maybe it'll get better soon? 🤞

I've had luck calling exactly at 8:00 AM when they open - literally have your finger ready to hit redial at 7:59:59. Also try calling on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, seems like Mondays and Fridays are swamped. If you get the automated system, don't hang up right away - sometimes if you stay on the line for a few minutes it'll transfer you to hold for a real person. The wait can be brutal (I've waited 3+ hours before) but at least you're in the queue. Good luck, @Amelia Martinez - I know how stressful this can be when you need help ASAP! 🤞

One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet - make sure to keep detailed records of everything during this transition! I learned this the hard way when I switched from UI to SDI for my own medical situation. Keep screenshots of your final UI certification, save confirmation numbers from your SDI application, and get copies of all the medical forms your doctor submits. EDD systems don't always talk to each other perfectly, and having your own documentation can save you hours on the phone if there are any discrepancies. Also, once you're approved for SDI, set up the EDD online account specifically for disability if you haven't already - it's separate from the UI portal. You'll need it for your bi-weekly certifications and to check payment status. The transition sounds overwhelming but you're asking all the right questions. With your doctor appointment tomorrow, you should be able to get this sorted out well before your UI runs out in 3 weeks. Wishing you a smooth surgery and quick recovery!

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now and this thread has been incredibly helpful! I've been on UI since last fall and just got news that I need gallbladder surgery next month. One thing I wanted to add that might help - when you talk to your doctor tomorrow, ask them specifically about the "unable to perform regular work duties" language. My doctor explained that for SDI approval, they need to certify not just that you have a medical condition, but that the condition prevents you from doing your specific job functions. Since you're dealing with back problems and warehouse work involves heavy lifting, that should be a pretty clear connection. Also, I've been keeping a pain diary since my symptoms started getting worse - documenting bad days, limitations on activities, etc. My doctor said this kind of documentation really helps them write a stronger medical certification because it shows the progression and impact of the condition. The timing advice everyone's given is spot-on. I'm planning to follow the same strategy of stopping UI certification right before my surgery date and having my doctor date the disability to start immediately after. Fingers crossed it goes as smoothly for both of us as it did for others here! Best of luck with your appointment tomorrow and your surgery. It sounds like you're getting great advice here to make this transition work.

Have you tried turning it off and on again? 🤣 jk jk... but seriously, sometimes logging out and back in can help. Worth a shot!

I had this exact same issue a few weeks ago! What finally worked for me was switching to Edge browser and making sure I wasn't using any browser extensions or ad blockers. Also, try filling out the form in sections - don't do it all at once. Save your progress frequently if the system lets you. The EDD website seems to timeout or glitch if you stay on one page too long. Hope this helps and congrats on your upcoming little one! 💕