I'm currently dealing with almost the same situation! What I learned (after many frustrating calls to EDD) is that the base periods used for calculating SDI and UI can be different too, which affects your benefit amount. SDI looks at a different earnings period than UI might when they calculate your benefit. Also, I don't know if this applies to you, but when I talked to the disability office, they mentioned that if you're receiving any severance pay from your employer, it can affect your UI eligibility. Might be worth checking if you're getting any severance as part of your layoff package.

I'm really sorry you're going through this - getting laid off while recovering from surgery is incredibly stressful. I went through a similar transition about 6 months ago and can share what I learned. Unfortunately, everyone here is right that your UI benefits will be significantly lower than your SDI. In my case, I went from about $1100/week on disability to $520/week on unemployment. The calculation methods are completely different, and UI has much lower caps. A few things that might help: - Apply for UI about a week before your SDI ends to minimize gaps - Keep all your layoff paperwork showing it's due to "restructuring" not performance - Ask HR if they're offering any COBRA subsidies or other benefits during the transition - Look into local food banks or assistance programs to help bridge the income gap Also, definitely explore what @Caleb Bell mentioned about potentially extending your disability if your doctor thinks you're not ready to return to work. With back surgery complications, that might be worth considering. Hang in there - this is a tough situation but you'll get through it!

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! 🍼

lol good luck. EDD is a joke these days 🤡

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! 🤞

good luck!! i had 2 go through the whole appeal thing last year and finally got approved. just make sure u turn it in on time!!

Just wanted to add my experience - I successfully appealed my SDI denial last fall and the date issue definitely tripped me up at first too! Like everyone else confirmed, you absolutely need the "date mailed" from your determination notice. But here's something that might help: when you submit your appeal, consider sending it certified mail so you have proof of delivery. EDD has to receive it within 30 days of that mailed date, not just postmarked. I almost missed my deadline because I assumed regular mail would be fine. Also, if you're close to the deadline like you are, you can actually submit the appeal online through EDD's website which gives you immediate confirmation. Good luck with your appeal - the process is stressful but don't give up!

Okay, hear me out. What if you made a TikTok about your EDD struggles? I've seen people get traction and even responses from companies that way. Could be worth a shot! 🤷‍♂️

OP, I feel for you! EDD errors are so frustrating. One thing that helped me was calling their dedicated appeals line (1-800-300-5616) rather than the regular customer service number. They usually have shorter wait times and the staff is specifically trained on appeal issues. Also, make sure you keep copies of EVERYTHING - your original claim forms, the incorrect notice, your appeal, etc. If your partner's job loss is recent, definitely mention that in any follow-up communications as it strengthens your hardship case. The good news is that most appeals with documentation errors like yours do get resolved in your favor, it just takes patience. Hang in there! 💪