After reading all these comments, it sounds like you have several potential issues that could be causing the delay: 1. The general backlog (most likely) 2. A possible incomplete physician certification 3. Your previous UI claim potentially complicating benefit calculations 4. Possible missing identity verification The fastest way to resolve this is definitely getting through to an actual claims specialist who can look at your file. They can tell you exactly what's happening and often fix issues on the spot. The standard phone lines are virtually impossible right now, so either try the Claimyr service I mentioned, contact your assembly member, or try calling the alternate number (833-978-2511) which sometimes has shorter wait times. Once you get your claim approved, the good news is that you'll receive all back payments from your disability start date (minus the 7-day waiting period). So even though it's incredibly stressful waiting, you will eventually get the full amount you're entitled to.

I'm so sorry you're going through this - the stress of waiting for disability benefits while dealing with medical issues and financial strain is absolutely brutal. I went through something similar last year and it took 7 weeks to get my first payment. One thing that helped me was keeping a detailed log of all my call attempts, including dates, times, and how long I was on hold before getting disconnected. This documentation was useful when I finally got through to someone and also when I contacted my state representative's office for help. Also, if you haven't already, make sure to certify for benefits every two weeks even though you haven't been paid yet. Sometimes people miss this step thinking they need to wait for approval first, but you actually need to keep certifying to avoid additional delays once your claim is processed. The system is completely broken right now, but hang in there - you will eventually get your benefits including all the back pay. In the meantime, see if there are any local emergency assistance programs that might help with rent or prescription costs while you're waiting.

Have you tried faxing them? I know it sounds ancient, but sometimes old school methods work best with these outdated systems.

I went through this exact same thing a few months ago! The key is to be super persistent and don't let them brush you off. Here's what worked for me: 1. Get your documentation ready - any texts, emails, or notes about when you actually returned to work 2. When you do get through to someone, ask to speak with a supervisor if the first person can't help 3. File an appeal if they deny your claim - sometimes that's the only way to get a real review 4. Keep certifying for benefits while you're fighting it, even if there's a discrepancy The whole process took me about 6 weeks but I eventually got it sorted and received all my back pay. Don't give up! The system is broken but if you stay on top of it, you can get through this. 💪

I'm dealing with this exact situation right now too! My chronic pain condition flared up after trying to return to work for just 5 days. Reading through everyone's advice here has been a lifesaver - I had no idea about the 90-day rule or that specific wording on the DE 2501 form could make such a difference. The distinction between "failed work attempt" vs just going back on disability is something EDD really should explain better on their website. I'm planning to use all the terminology mentioned here when I call them: "recurrence of original disability after failed work attempt." It's so reassuring to see that this is actually a common situation that the system is designed to handle, even though they make it unnecessarily confusing. Thank you all for sharing your experiences - it's making what felt like an impossible situation seem manageable!

I went through almost the exact same thing with a herniated disc last fall - returned to work after 7 weeks on SDI but had to stop after just 6 days when the pain became unbearable. What really helped me was keeping detailed records of everything: the dates I worked, when the pain flared up, and all my doctor visits. When I called EDD (finally got through using that callback feature others mentioned), I told them it was a "failed work attempt due to recurrence of disability" and they immediately understood. The rep actually thanked me for being so clear about the situation! One thing I'd add to all the great advice here - make sure your doctor notes not just that it's a recurrence, but also documents that your symptoms worsened compared to your baseline. This helped show EDD that my attempt to return wasn't premature but that my condition genuinely deteriorated. Also, don't stress too much about the 8 days you worked - EDD sees this all the time and as long as you're honest on your certification, they handle it routinely. The whole process took about 2 weeks from submitting the new medical form to getting my first payment, and they backpaid everything I was owed. You're definitely on the right track!

I'm going through the same thing right now! Been stuck on this for two days. What's really helped me is trying to certify super early in the morning (like 5-6 AM) when fewer people are on the system. Also, make sure you're not using any browser extensions that might interfere - I had to disable my ad blocker to get it to work. If you're still having issues, document everything with screenshots so you have proof you tried to certify on time. The EDD system is notorious for these glitches but they usually honor your certification if you can show you made legitimate attempts. Good luck!

I'm dealing with this exact same issue right now! Been trying to certify since yesterday and keep getting kicked out of the system. It's so stressful when you're depending on these benefits. I tried calling this morning but gave up after being on hold for 2 hours. Thanks to everyone sharing their tips here - I'm going to try certifying at 5 AM tomorrow and also check the mobile app. It's reassuring to know I'm not the only one struggling with this system. Hopefully they get these glitches sorted out soon! 🤞

Just checking back - were you able to get through to SDI? If they told you it could take weeks for reissue, ask to speak with a supervisor about expediting due to financial hardship. Sometimes they can process it faster.

That's great news that you got it resolved! For anyone else reading this thread who might face a similar issue, I'd also recommend checking with your old address if possible. Sometimes apartment complexes or new tenants will hold mail for a while. I had a friend who got their disability check back this way when EDD sent it to the wrong place. Also worth noting - if you move again, make sure to update your address with BOTH regular EDD and the SDI division separately since they don't always sync up automatically. Glad everything worked out for you!