Just went through this exact same situation last month! The key thing that helped me was organizing everything chronologically - it made it so much easier to tell my story coherently in the appeal. Also, don't be afraid to include a timeline of events in your appeal letter. The judges appreciate when you make their job easier by presenting the facts clearly. One more tip: if you have any witnesses (former coworkers, supervisors) who can back up your side of the story, get written statements from them. It carries more weight than just your word alone. You've got this! 💪

Just wanted to jump in here as someone who's been through the EDD appeals process twice (unfortunately). The most important thing I learned is to request your complete file from EDD before your hearing - they're required to give it to you and sometimes there are documents or notes in there that you didn't know existed that could help your case. Also, if you're dealing with identity verification issues specifically, make sure you send certified mail for any documents you submit. I had papers "lost" in their system and having that tracking receipt saved me from having to start over. The whole process is stressful but don't give up - I know people who won on their second or even third appeal. Document everything and keep copies of EVERYTHING! 📁

I'm going through something similar - been waiting about 2 weeks myself. One thing that helped me was keeping a detailed log of every attempt I made to contact them (dates, times, what happened). Also, try calling right at 8 AM when they open - I've heard that's when you have the best shot at getting through. If you haven't already, make sure to check that all your paperwork was submitted correctly through your online account. Sometimes there are missing documents or signatures that aren't obvious. Hang in there - I know how stressful this is when you're counting on those payments!

I'm so sorry you're going through this - 17 days is way too long to be waiting without any communication! I went through a similar situation last year and here's what finally worked for me: I started calling at exactly 8:00 AM every single day (set multiple alarms), and I also sent messages through my online EDD account every few days asking for status updates. The key is being persistent but polite. Also, double-check that your claim wasn't flagged for identity verification - that's a common reason for delays that they don't always notify you about clearly. If you're really struggling financially, look into local food banks and emergency assistance programs while you wait. Don't give up - the squeaky wheel really does get the grease with EDD, even though it shouldn't have to be this way. Keep us posted on how it goes!

I went through something similar a few months ago. When you call, just be straightforward about it - tell them it was a one-time payment from your employer to help with living expenses, not regular wages or benefits. They'll probably ask if it's taxable income (it likely is) and whether you expect any more payments like this. The key is being honest and having your documentation ready. Also, heads up - they might adjust your benefits for that certification period, but it shouldn't affect future weeks as long as it was truly a one-time thing. Hope this helps!

I went through almost the exact same thing a few months back! When I called EDD, I just explained it as "supplemental assistance from my employer during a difficult time" - they understood pretty quickly. The rep asked me if it was a regular occurrence (it wasn't) and whether I had any documentation showing what it was for. I had an email from HR explaining it, which helped a lot. They did reduce my benefits for that one certification period, but everything went back to normal after that. Just be honest and clear about what it was - they deal with these situations more often than you'd think. You've got this! 💪

Just saw your update about finding the email in your spam folder - that's great! Make sure you respond with exactly what they're asking for, and be very specific. If they asked about employment dates, provide the precise dates with documentation if possible. Also, call them tomorrow after submitting the information to confirm they received it and ask how long until processing. Sometimes a follow-up call can move things along faster once you've provided the missing information.

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now - applied for SDI in early February and still stuck on "pending" status. One thing that helped me was setting up email notifications in the SDI Online portal if you haven't already done that. Go to your account settings and make sure all notification options are checked. Also, I've found that calling around 2-3 PM sometimes has better luck than the morning rush - fewer people seem to call during lunch hours. The wait times are still brutal but I've gotten through twice that way. Keep us posted on how it goes with the employment dates clarification!

To summarize for you since there's a lot of information here: 1. If this is a work injury, you need WORKERS' COMPENSATION first - talk to your employer 2. If workers' comp is denied or doesn't apply, then you can apply for SDI 3. For SDI, everything is done online at SDI Online - no need to visit an office 4. Your doctor provides the medical certification (DE 2501) for SDI claims 5. There is indeed a 7-day waiting period before SDI benefits begin Hope this helps clear things up!

I actually went to the EDD office in San Diego last year thinking the same thing! The office I found was at 303 A Street in downtown, but they just redirected me to do everything online. Waste of a trip and parking $$. Do what everyone else said and handle it online or through your employer for workers comp. Good luck with your injury!