Thank you, these are excellent suggestions. I'll email HR tomorrow to get written clarification of what my manager told me verbally. And I'll definitely ask my doctor to be very specific about my restrictions at my next appointment. The 19-day timeline is helpful to know - I'll make sure I have some emergency savings set aside to cover that gap.

This is such a tough situation, and I really feel for you! I went through something similar when my employer "restructured" while I was on medical leave for anxiety/depression. A few things that helped me navigate this: 1. Contact your union if you have one - they can often provide guidance on disability rights and job protection that HR won't tell you about. 2. Keep ALL medical documentation organized. When I transitioned from SDI to UI, they asked for proof that I was able to work but had no job to return to. 3. Start looking for new jobs NOW while you're still on disability. Even if your current employer has to take you back, having backup options reduces stress and gives you leverage. 4. Consider contacting a disability rights attorney for a free consultation. Many work on contingency, so you don't pay unless you win. Even if you don't sue, they can often write a letter to your employer that gets them to take your rights more seriously. The whole system is frustrating, but you have more options than you think. Don't let them push you around just because you've been on medical leave. You deserve to be treated fairly after everything you've been through with your back injury!

Anyone else notice that SDI seems to be getting worse lately? I swear it wasn't this bad a few years ago. Budget cuts maybe?

I'm dealing with something similar! After my third attempt sending docs, I started taking screenshots of everything in their online portal and keeping detailed records. One thing that helped me was sending a secure message through the SDI Online portal in addition to mailing/faxing - at least then you have a digital trail showing you contacted them. Also, try calling right at 8 AM when they open - I finally got through that way after weeks of busy signals. Don't give up, you'll get your payment! 💪

As someone who went through a similar back injury situation, I just wanted to add that it's totally normal to feel nervous about returning to work, especially with a physical job. Since you mentioned your work involves heavy lifting, you might want to ask your employer about any accommodations they can make during your first few weeks back - like lighter duties or modified tasks. Many employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations under the ADA. Also, don't hesitate to communicate with your doctor if you start having increased pain after returning. It's better to address issues early rather than push through and risk a more serious re-injury. Good luck with your return to work!

I went through something very similar with my SDI claim last year! The remaining benefit amount definitely threw me off at first too. Just to add to what everyone else has said - when you do go back to work, make sure you keep all your documentation from EDD about when your claim officially ended. I had to provide proof to my employer's HR department that my disability leave was properly closed out. Also, if your workplace has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), they might be able to help you navigate the transition back to work and any accommodation requests. The first few weeks back can be mentally challenging too, not just physically. Take care of yourself!

Hey OP, what kind of payment are you waiting for? Regular UI, PUA, or something else? The process can be different depending on the type.

I'm in a similar boat - filed for disability benefits about 6 weeks ago and still haven't heard anything back. The uncertainty is killing me! I've tried calling the disability line but it's just as bad as the regular UI line. Has anyone had success with the disability claims specifically? I'm wondering if there are different tricks or if I should be calling a different number. Really hoping we all get some answers soon! 🤞

FINAL UPDATE: All my payments came through today! Six weeks of back pay all at once. Such a huge relief. For anyone dealing with identity verification issues on their pregnancy disability claim, definitely call and specifically ask for expedited processing due to medical necessity. Thanks again everyone for your help!

Congratulations on getting your payments resolved, Madison! Your story gives me so much hope. I'm currently 12 weeks pregnant with severe morning sickness and have been waiting 3 weeks for my identity verification to process. I submitted all my documents but haven't heard anything back. After reading through all these comments, I'm definitely going to try that Claimyr service and use the specific phrasing about CCR 2706-2 for medical necessity. It's so stressful being sick AND worrying about money at the same time. Thank you for sharing your experience and keeping us updated - it really helps to know there's light at the end of the tunnel!