Yes, standard SDI benefits can last up to 52 weeks if medically necessary (and certified by your doctor). However, the benefit amount is based on your past wages during your base period. After SDI, you can transition to PFL for additional time if needed. The process requires a new application and medical certification, but it uses the same benefit calculation as your SDI claim. Something else to consider: if your treatment extends beyond 12 months and you're unable to return to work, you might want to explore long-term disability options either through Social Security (SSDI) or any private insurance you might have through a previous employer. These take longer to process but provide benefits for extended disabilities. I hope your treatment goes well and your recovery is smooth!

I'm so sorry about your diagnosis, Nia. Cancer treatment is overwhelming enough without having to navigate EDD bureaucracy. I went through a similar transition last year when I had to switch from UI to SDI for surgery. Here's what worked for me: I called the UI phone line (1-800-300-5616) and spoke to a rep who put a note on my account that I was transitioning to disability due to medical reasons. This wasn't required, but it created a paper trail that helped later when SDI asked about my UI claim. The most important thing is making sure there's NO overlap in benefit periods. If your last UI payment covered through a specific date, your SDI should start the day after. The systems do eventually cross-reference, and any overlap will result in an overpayment that you'll have to repay. For your medical certification, make sure your oncologist is very specific about your functional limitations. Don't let them just write "patient has cancer" - they need to explain exactly why lymphoma treatment prevents you from performing your usual work duties (fatigue, immune suppression, treatment schedule, etc.). One last tip: consider applying online late at night or early morning when the system is less busy. The SDI online portal sometimes crashes during peak hours. Sending you strength for your treatment journey. You've got this! 💙

OP, whatever you do, don't ignore this! I made that mistake and ended up in a huge financial mess. Keep calling, emailing, whatever it takes to get answers.

I went through something similar a few months ago and it turned out to be a routine review that got stuck in the system. Here's what worked for me: I called the main SDI line at 8:00 AM sharp (1-800-480-3287) and pressed 1-2-1 to get to the disability claims department. It took about 45 minutes on hold, but I finally got through to someone who could see what was happening with my claim. Turns out they had flagged my case for additional review but never sent me notice. The agent was able to expedite the process and I got my backpay within a week. Also, if you have a case worker assigned to you, try calling their direct line - sometimes that's faster than the main number. Hang in there, this stuff usually gets resolved once you can actually talk to a human!

Pro tip: Keep a detailed log of every interaction you have with EDD. Dates, times, names of reps you talk to, what was said. It'll help if you need to escalate your case later.

I'm dealing with something similar right now - got paid but then received a denial notice. It's so confusing! From what I've learned lurking here, it seems like EDD's system has tons of glitches. Definitely appeal it, but also try calling first like @Rachel Clark suggested. Sometimes it really is just a computer error. Make sure you have all your job search records ready - screenshots of applications, emails, anything that proves you were actively looking for work before your injury. The whole "withdrawn from labor market" thing seems to be their go-to reason for denial even when it's not accurate. Don't let them intimidate you - you know what really happened. Keep us posted on how it goes! 🤞

Pro tip: if you can't get through on the main line, try calling right when they open. Also, Wednesdays seem to be less busy for some reason.

Don't stress too much about this! I made a similar error on my SDI paperwork a few months back. The key is to act quickly and be honest about the mistake. You can also try submitting a written correction through their online portal if calling doesn't work out - sometimes that's actually faster than trying to get someone on the phone. Document everything you submit so you have a paper trail. The SDI folks deal with these kinds of clerical errors all the time, so they should be able to help you sort it out without too much drama.

GUYS I JUST FOUND OUT THERES A SECRET MENU OPTION THAT GETS YOU TO A REAL PERSON FASTER!!! Just keep pressing 0# over and over when you call. You're welcome 😎

I had this exact same issue a few months ago! The "account linked to another email" error is super common with the EDD/ID.me integration. What worked for me was actually creating a completely new ID.me account with a slightly different email (like adding a period or number) and then linking that fresh account to EDD. I know it sounds backwards, but their system sometimes gets confused with existing accounts. Also, make sure you're not logged into any other government sites when you try - that can mess with the verification process. Hope this helps!