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anyone else think its wild that in 2023 we still gotta jump through all these hoops just to get our benefits? smh
Hey Zainab! I went through something similar last year. For the direct deposit setup, make sure you have your routing and account numbers ready - sometimes the online system glitches out if you don't enter them perfectly the first time. Also, when you apply for PFL/baby bonding, you'll need your doctor to fill out the medical certification form (DE 2501). Start that process early because doctors can take forever to get paperwork back to you! Congrats on the upcoming baby! 🍼
am i the only 1 who thinks its crazy we gotta jump thru all these hoops just to access our own accounts? 🤡 system is broken af
I went through something similar when my daughter was born. Here's what worked for me: First, try the "Forgot Username" option on the EDD site - sometimes that works better than password recovery. If that fails, call the technical support line (not the regular claims line) at 1-833-978-2511. They specifically handle account access issues. Also, make sure you're using the same browser and clearing your cache first. The system is super finicky about that stuff. Hang in there - PFL is worth the hassle once you get it sorted! 💪
I'm currently going through the same waiting period after my SDI approval last week. Reading through everyone's experiences here has been incredibly helpful - it's reassuring to see that most people receive their cards within that 7-10 business day window. I especially appreciate the tips about the plain envelope (would have definitely tossed that as junk mail!) and being able to check the BofA EDD website for card status. The financial stress while waiting is real, but it sounds like the system generally works as advertised. Thanks for starting this thread Evan - it's exactly the kind of real-world timeline info that's hard to find elsewhere!
Absolutely agree Amina! I'm also in the waiting phase after approval and this thread has been a lifesaver. It's amazing how much the real experiences from actual people help vs just reading the generic "7-10 business days" on the website. The plain envelope tip alone probably saved me from accidentally throwing away my card when it arrives! I'm bookmarking this thread to come back and share my timeline once my card shows up - hopefully we can all help future people going through this same anxious waiting period. The community support here really makes a difference when you're dealing with the stress of disability and financial uncertainty.
I'm in the exact same situation right now! My SDI claim was approved on Wednesday and I've been refreshing my mailbox constantly since then. This thread has been so reassuring - it's crazy how much better real people's experiences are compared to just seeing "7-10 business days" on the official websites. I had no idea about the plain envelope thing, so thank you everyone for that heads up! I would have 100% thrown that away thinking it was spam mail. I'm going to try creating that BofA EDD account tomorrow to see if there's any card status info. The waiting is definitely the hardest part, especially when you're already dealing with the stress of being unable to work. Really grateful for this community sharing their timelines - makes me feel way less alone in this process!
I've been dealing with similar issues too! What I found helpful was clearing my browser cache and cookies before trying to update online - sometimes that fixes weird glitches. Also, if you're getting error messages, try screenshotting them. When I finally got through to a rep, having those screenshots helped them identify the specific issue faster. The whole system definitely needs an overhaul, but hang in there! 🤞
Yara Nassar
I had success uploading through the online portal too! Just wanted to add that if you're having trouble finding the upload section, look for "My SDI Online" or "Disability Insurance" in your account dashboard. Sometimes the navigation can be confusing. Also, make sure your doctor's note includes your full name, date of birth, and the specific dates you're unable to work - EDD is really picky about having all that info clearly stated. Saved me from having to resubmit!
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Sophia Long
•This is so helpful! I've been struggling to find the right section in the portal. The "My SDI Online" tip is a lifesaver - I was looking everywhere except there. And good point about making sure all the details are included in the doctor's note. Better to get it right the first time than have to go through this whole process again!
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Juan Moreno
Just wanted to share my recent experience - I actually had luck calling right at lunchtime (around 12:30 PM) when I think fewer people are calling. Got through to someone in about 45 minutes instead of the usual 2+ hours. The rep told me they can also accept documents via secure email if you ask for it - they'll send you a special encrypted email address to use. Might be worth trying that route if the online portal isn't working for you. Also, make sure your doctor's note is on official letterhead - they're apparently really strict about that now.
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