One other thing - if you have health insurance through your former employer, switching to SDI won't affect your COBRA eligibility or timeline. That was something I was worried about when I went through this. Your right to continue health coverage is separate from which benefit program you're on.

I went through this transition about 2 years ago and want to emphasize something important - keep detailed records of everything! Save screenshots of your last UI certification, your SDI application submission confirmation, and any correspondence from EDD. I also recommend taking a photo of the medical form your doctor completes before they submit it electronically. Having this documentation saved me when there was a discrepancy in my file months later. The transition itself is straightforward like everyone said (just stop UI when SDI starts), but having proof of dates and what was submitted gives you peace of mind. Also, don't panic if your first SDI payment seems delayed - mine took about 2-3 weeks to arrive even though I did everything correctly. Good luck with your pregnancy and the benefit transition!

Struck out with EDD too many times. System's broken af. Time to throw in the towel and find other options tbh

Don't give up yet! I know it's incredibly frustrating, but you have rights here. Document everything - pay stubs showing the 30%, any communication with your employer about the arrangement, and keep records of all EDD interactions. Consider filing a complaint with your state assembly representative too - they often have caseworkers who can intervene with EDD on your behalf. Also look into local legal aid organizations that might help with disability appeals for free. In the meantime, see if you qualify for any emergency assistance programs in your county. Food banks, utility assistance, etc. can help bridge the gap while you fight this. You've got 7 weeks invested already - don't let EDD's incompetence win!

am i the only 1 who thinks its crazy we still use debit cards for this?? why cant they just do direct deposit like a normal job smh

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! My payment was processed last week and still no card. Reading through these comments, it sounds like this is unfortunately pretty common. I'm going to try checking the Bank of America EDD website like Eva suggested to see if there's any tracking info. Also might bite the bullet and pay for one of those calling services since getting through to EDD directly seems impossible. This whole system really needs an overhaul - the stress of waiting for money you're entitled to is just awful. Hang in there, we'll get through this! 💪

I just went through this exact situation with my wife's disability claim last month! The verification letter for self-employment income looks scary but it's actually pretty straightforward once you know what they want. Here's what worked for us: I gathered her Schedule C from last year's tax return, all 1099-NEC forms from clients, and printed out bank statements showing the deposits from her freelance work. I also wrote a simple one-page letter explaining what type of freelance work she did, average monthly income, and included her doctor's estimated return-to-work date. The key is to be thorough but organized. Put everything in chronological order and include a cover sheet listing each document you're sending. We submitted everything through SDI Online and got approval within 2 weeks. Don't stress too much - you absolutely did the right thing reporting all income upfront. EDD just needs to verify it since there's no employer to contact like with W2 income. Good luck!

Adding onto this - does anyone know how to submit form 2503 for yourself online? I wanted to use SDI online, but it said the employer must register in California and file quarterly payroll taxes at least once with the EDD in order to register to use SDI online. Since I just recently became self-employed (sole proprietor) after my W-2 job, I'm not registered in CA. This is making me think I will need to submit everything through the mail. If anyone knows, appreciate any input. Thanks in advance!

Has anyone tried contacting their local representative about SDI issues? I've heard sometimes they can help push things along.

I'm going through something similar right now! One thing that helped me was requesting a detailed breakdown of my payment calculation. You can do this through your online account or by calling (if you can get through). They should be able to show you exactly how they calculated your benefit amount and what deductions were taken. Sometimes there are things like overpayments from previous claims or adjustments that aren't immediately obvious. Also, make sure to keep copies of EVERYTHING - every form you submit, every correspondence, dates of phone calls, etc. This documentation becomes super important if you need to escalate or appeal later.