Protip: if u get a human on the line DO NOT hang up no matter what. I once waited 3 hrs but it was worth it to finally get my claim sorted

I went through this exact same nightmare last month! The identity verification system is absolutely broken. What finally worked for me was clearing my browser cache completely, using a different browser (Chrome instead of Firefox), and making sure I had a strong internet connection. Also, when speaking to the automated system, I found that speaking in a slightly higher pitch and pausing between each word helped - sounds weird but it worked! If all else fails, you can also try going to a local EDD office in person with your documents. It's a pain but sometimes face-to-face is the only way to break through the digital madness. Hang in there! 💪

Okay, here's my secret weapon. Call the employer line instead of the claimant line. They usually pick up faster and can still help you. Just be super nice and they might transfer you to the right person.

I totally understand your frustration! I went through the exact same thing a few months ago and it felt hopeless. What finally worked for me was a combination of calling right at 8am sharp and using the "2-1-4" menu sequence to bypass some of the automated prompts. Also, I noticed that calling mid-week (Tuesday-Thursday) seemed to have better success rates than Mondays or Fridays. Don't give up - I know it's exhausting but you will eventually get through! In the meantime, make sure you're documenting all your call attempts with dates and times, as that info can be helpful when you do finally reach someone. Hang in there! 💪

Last year I had a similar situation with a different illness and I called my city's economic assistance office. Turns out they had emergency rental assistance fund I qualified for! Maybe check if your local government has something similar? Not directly EDD related but might help with your immediate concern about rent.

One more thing to consider - if your condition worsens and your doctor extends your disability period beyond the initial 7 days, you WOULD become eligible for benefits for the days beyond the waiting period. If that happens, make sure you get updated medical certification from your doctor and file your claim right away. There's a 49-day deadline from your disability start date to file for benefits.

The EDD agents who said you qualify were correct! As others have explained, it's all about your base period. Since you were W2 during most of 2024, that will be your qualifying period for a May 2025 birth. One thing to note: make sure you have your doctor submit the medical certification form (DE 2501) promptly. Pregnancy disability can start up to 4 weeks before your due date, so you'll need that ready. Also, remember that SDI has a 7-day waiting period before benefits begin. After your SDI pregnancy benefits end (usually 6-8 weeks depending on delivery type), you can transition to Paid Family Leave (PFL) for bonding time with your baby. PFL has no waiting period.

I went through something similar! I was W2 from 2019-2023, then went freelance in early 2024. Had my baby in August 2024 and was so stressed about SDI eligibility. Turns out I qualified just fine based on my 2023 W2 earnings during the base period. Here's what I learned: Apply online as soon as you can (4 weeks before due date). Don't stress too much about the conflicting phone info - the online system will automatically calculate your eligibility based on your actual wage records. If there are any issues, they'll send you a notice explaining what's needed. Also, keep detailed records of all your 2024 W2 paystubs just in case there are any wage reporting discrepancies. Sometimes employers mess up their quarterly reporting to EDD, which can cause delays. Having your own documentation speeds things up if you need to provide proof. You've got this! The $2,100 you paid in definitely wasn't for nothing.

Hey OP, what exactly happens when you try to certify? Are you getting an error message or is it just not letting you submit?

I've been dealing with similar certification issues for the past few weeks. One thing that helped me was using a different browser - I was having problems with Chrome but it worked fine in Firefox. Also, make sure you're not using any browser extensions or ad blockers that might interfere with the site. The EDD website is pretty finicky about that stuff. Good luck today!