This is so relatable! 😭 I'm going through the exact same thing - my PFL claim has been "pending" for 6 weeks now and I've called probably 200+ times. The automated system just hangs up on you half the time! What's really frustrating is that we NEED this money to care for our babies, but they make it nearly impossible to get. I've tried everything - calling at different times, using different phone numbers, even had my partner call. Nothing works. I'm definitely going to look into that Claimyr service @Chloe Anderson mentioned. At this point $20 seems like a bargain if it actually gets me through to a human being. This system is absolutely broken and it's hurting families when we're most vulnerable. Thanks for posting this - at least we know we're not alone in this nightmare! 💪

Just joined this community after going through the exact same ordeal! 😤 My SDI claim has been stuck in "pending" status for 2 months now, and like everyone else, I can't get through to anyone. It's absolutely maddening that we have to fight tooth and nail just to get benefits we've already paid into. I've tried all the usual tricks - calling first thing in the morning, using different phone numbers, even having family members call on my behalf. The system is clearly overwhelmed and outdated. Thanks @Nia Jackson for that comprehensive list of tips! I'm definitely going to reach out to my state rep - never thought of that before. And @Chloe Anderson, I'm seriously considering that Claimyr service too. At this point, $20 is a small price to pay for my sanity and to actually get the help I need. It's so frustrating that we have to deal with this stress while caring for newborns. The EDD really needs a complete overhaul. We shouldn't have to become detectives and use third-party services just to access our own benefits! Hang in there everyone - hopefully sharing strategies and supporting each other will help us all get through this nightmare! 💪👶

Great to see you got everything submitted so quickly! Just wanted to add one more tip - if you need to extend your disability beyond the initial 6 weeks your doctor estimated, make sure to have them submit a continuation claim (DE 2525C) before your current certification period expires. Don't wait until the last day because there can't be any gaps in coverage. Also keep all your medical records and documentation organized in case EDD requests additional proof later. Hoping for a smooth approval process for you!

As someone who's been through the SDI process a few times, I wanted to add that you should also notify your employer about your disability claim even though it's not work-related. They can't legally retaliate against you for filing, and some employers have supplemental disability policies that might provide additional benefits. Also, make sure you understand that SDI benefits are taxable income - they don't withhold taxes automatically, so you might want to set aside some money for tax season or request voluntary withholding when you file. The ankle fracture should be pretty straightforward for approval since it's an obvious physical limitation that prevents you from performing normal work duties. Good luck with your recovery!

This happened to me too! Turns out there was a glitch in their system affecting claims extended within certain dates. Keep bugging them and eventually they'll sort it out. Took me about 3 weeks of pestering them tho 😩

I went through this exact same nightmare a few months ago! Here's what finally worked for me: Try accessing your portal from a different browser or device - sometimes the form doesn't load properly on certain browsers. Also, check under different sections like "Forms" or "Documents" rather than just the main dashboard. If that doesn't work, I'd recommend doing what @Ava Rodriguez suggested and send a secure message through your portal. Be super specific - include your claim number, extension dates, and mention that your doctor already approved the extension but the continued benefits form isn't appearing. One more thing - if you have any paper documents from your doctor or EDD about the extension, scan and attach those to your message. It helps show you're not just making stuff up. The whole system is absolutely broken but don't give up! You've got this! 💪

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.

Update: My claim was just approved this morning! The status in the portal changed to "Claim Established" and shows my weekly benefit amount. No email notification, but I did get a text message. Thanks everyone for your help and reassurance during the wait!

Congratulations on getting your claim approved! This is such a helpful thread for others going through the same process. It's reassuring to see that even though the waiting period can be stressful, EDD does come through. Your experience really shows how important it is to keep checking that portal regularly since the notification methods can be inconsistent. Best wishes for a smooth delivery and recovery period!