Has anyone tried appealing an IME decision? I'm thinking about lawyering up but not sure if it's worth the hassle.

Hey Aisha! I went through the same thing about 6 months ago and it was super stressful. Here's what I learned: First, call them ASAP to get clarity on your specific situation. Ask for a case manager if possible - they tend to be more helpful than the general customer service reps. Key questions to ask: - What triggered the IME request? (sometimes it's just routine after a certain time period) - Will you get backpay for the time your benefits were suspended? - What's the typical timeline for your area? (mine took about 6 weeks total) - Can you request a specific doctor or do they assign one? Also, start gathering ALL your medical records now - the more documentation you have, the smoother the process goes. And yeah, definitely have some backup funds if possible because it can take a while. Hang in there! It sucks but most people do get through it eventually. Feel free to ask if you have other questions! 💪

Hey Victoria, I feel for you - being self-employed and dealing with an injury is so stressful! While you're checking on your SDI eligibility, don't forget to look into your local resources too. Many cities have emergency rental assistance programs, especially if you have a medical reason for lost income. Also, if you rent your booth space, talk to your shop owner - some are willing to work with you on payment plans during medical leave. And definitely reach out to any barber or cosmetology associations you might belong to - many have emergency funds specifically for situations like yours. Take care of yourself and don't let the stress make your recovery harder!

I'm so sorry you're going through this - the uncertainty about finances while dealing with a painful injury is incredibly stressful. From what others have shared here, it sounds like checking your DIEC enrollment status should be your first priority. Even if you haven't enrolled, I'd still recommend calling EDD directly to confirm your situation since tax situations can be complex and you might have coverage you're not aware of. In the meantime, please don't hesitate to reach out to local food banks and community resources - there's no shame in getting help when you need it, especially when you're dealing with a medical issue that's preventing you from working. I hope your physical therapy goes well and you can get back to doing what you love soon. Your health has to come first, and the financial stress will work itself out with time and the right resources.

Hey OP, hang in there! I know it feels hopeless, but you'll get through this. Sending good vibes your way! ❤️

I went through something similar last year and it was incredibly frustrating! One thing that helped me was sending everything certified mail with return receipt requested - that way you have proof they received your documents. Also, try reaching out to your state assembly member's office. I was shocked at how quickly they were able to get someone from EDD to actually look at my case. Most people don't know that their representatives have staff specifically for helping constituents with government agency issues. It's free and they know exactly who to contact at EDD. Good luck - don't let them wear you down! 💪

idk if this helps but I saw on twitter that EDD is having some system maintenance this week. Might be causing delays?

OP, how long has it been since you certified? Sometimes it takes a few days for the payment to process.

Quick update on the conditional payment - they typically process on the date promised, but it can take 2-3 banking days to actually appear in your account or on your EDD debit card. So don't panic if it's not there immediately on the processing date they gave you. Also, be sure to keep certifying for your benefits as normal during this review period. Sometimes people stop certifying because they think the review puts everything on hold, but you need to keep submitting those certifications.

I went through this exact situation last month! The "review required" notice is scary but it's usually just a standard verification process when there's a mailing issue. A few things that helped me: 1) Screenshot everything in your SDI Online account right now - dates, amounts, notices, everything. 2) When you get the interview call, they'll likely just verify your identity and ask about your address change. Have your ID and proof of current address ready. 3) My conditional payment came exactly when they said it would, but like others mentioned, give it 2-3 business days to actually hit your account. The interview was honestly pretty straightforward - they just wanted to confirm I was who I said I was and that I lived where I said I lived. Don't stress too much, this seems to be a common hiccup in their system!