Quick question - what kind of injury do you have? Some specific injuries might qualify you for other types of assistance.

I'm really sorry you're going through this! Being injured with such little work history is a tough spot. Since you likely won't qualify for SDI with only a month of employment, definitely look into those local assistance programs Lucas mentioned. Also, don't forget about food banks and utility assistance programs - they can help stretch whatever income you might have. Have you checked if your county has a 211 helpline? They usually have info on all the local resources available. Wishing you a speedy recovery! 🙏

I'm new here but going through something similar - my SDI is ending next month after a car accident and I'm still not cleared to work. Reading through these responses has been so helpful! I had no idea about the DE 2525XX form or that extensions were even possible. My case worker never mentioned this option. Does anyone know if there's a limit to how many times you can extend SDI, or is it just the one extension up to 52 weeks total that Miguel mentioned? Also, for those who got extensions approved, how long did the review process typically take? I'm worried about having a gap in benefits while they decide.

As someone who's been through this exact situation, I want to echo what others have said about acting quickly on the SDI extension. One thing I'd add is to consider reaching out to a disability advocate or legal aid society in your area if you run into roadblocks. Many offer free consultations for SDI issues. Also, while you're waiting for the extension decision, look into local emergency assistance programs - some counties have temporary financial assistance for people caught in these benefit gaps. Food banks and utility assistance programs can help stretch whatever resources you have. It's frustrating that the system has these gaps, but there are people and organizations who understand and can help navigate it. Don't be afraid to ask for help from multiple sources while you're recovering.

Pro tip: call right when they open. I got through after only 30 minutes on hold that way.

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! Filed my PFL claim 5 weeks ago and it's been stuck on "pending" the whole time. The stress is unreal when you're depending on those benefits to cover basic expenses. I've tried calling at different times but always get that automated message saying they're experiencing high call volumes. Has anyone had luck with the early morning calling strategy? I might try setting an alarm for 7:55am tomorrow to call right when they open.

Update us once you've filed your SDI claim. The first payment typically arrives within 14 days after your claim is approved, and it can be retroactive to your disability start date (minus the 7-day waiting period). Just remember that SDI only replaces about 60-70% of your wages, capped at a maximum weekly benefit amount of $1,620 in 2025.

I'm so sorry this happened to you - what a nightmare situation to deal with while you're already struggling with your health. I went through something similar with my lupus flare last year. My employer also gave me verbal assurances about medical leave but then tried to claim I was a "no-show" when I couldn't return as quickly as expected. Here's what I learned: Document EVERYTHING from this point forward. Those text messages from your supervisor are gold - screenshot them and back them up. Also, when you see your rheumatologist tomorrow, ask them to include specific details in the medical certification about how your RA symptoms (joint pain, fatigue, mobility issues, etc.) prevent you from performing your job duties. Don't just let them write "rheumatoid arthritis" - EDD needs functional limitations spelled out clearly. One thing I wish someone had told me: keep copies of all your SDI paperwork and track every interaction with EDD. If there are any issues with your claim, having that paper trail is crucial. Also, don't let your employer's poor handling of this situation discourage you - you have legitimate medical reasons for being unable to work, and that's what SDI is designed for. Good luck with your claim! Keep us posted on how it goes.

Ugh, this is so relatable! The exact same thing happened to me last month. I sent everything in certified mail with tracking, and then got another verification letter like they never received anything. When I called, they said there was a "processing delay" and my documents were "still being reviewed" even though it had been weeks. It's like they have no communication between departments. Definitely call them and be persistent - sometimes you have to explain the same thing to 3 different people before someone actually looks at your file properly. So frustrating when you're already dealing with being unable to work! 😔

This is so frustrating but unfortunately super common! I went through something similar last year. Here's what I learned: when you call, ask them to check if your documents were scanned into their system properly. Sometimes they receive them but there's a scanning error or they get misfiled. Also ask for the specific reason code for why verification is needed again - sometimes it's just an automated letter that went out by mistake. If they truly don't have your docs, definitely send them again but consider using both certified mail AND their online portal if available. Keep copies of everything and document every phone call (date, time, agent name, what they told you). The whole system is a mess but persistence usually pays off eventually. Hang in there! 💪