One more thing to note - if your extension is approved, you'll continue receiving the same weekly benefit amount as your original claim. If for some reason you need to file a new claim later in 2025 (after returning to work for a while), that would have a new benefit calculation based on your more recent wages. Just something to be aware of for planning purposes.

Just wanted to add that timing is really crucial here. Don't wait until the last minute to discuss this with your doctor. I made that mistake and had to scramble to get the paperwork submitted in time. Also, keep copies of everything your doctor submits - if there are any issues with processing, you'll want to have documentation of what was sent and when. The good news is that gallbladder complications are definitely a legitimate reason for extension, especially given the physical demands of construction work. Recovery times can vary a lot person to person, so don't feel bad about needing more time than initially expected.

To clarify the process a bit more: 1. Your paper claim (DE 2501) needs to be fully processed first 2. You'll receive a notice with your claim information by mail 3. Register for SDI Online at edd.ca.gov/disability 4. Link your existing claim using your SSN and claim details 5. All future certifications can be done online The key is making sure your paper claim is established before attempting to go online. If you try creating an online account before your paper claim is in their system, you might accidentally create a new claim which could cause confusion and payment delays.

Just wanted to add that when you do get your SDI Online account set up, make sure to bookmark the direct login page because the EDD website can be confusing to navigate. Also, once you're online, you can upload documents directly through the portal if EDD requests additional information - this is much faster than mailing them. The online system will also send you email notifications about important updates to your claim, which is really helpful for staying on top of things.

This whole system is a joke. They take forever to approve claims and then make you wait even longer for the money. My friend was literally about to be evicted while waiting for his disability payment to arrive. And they only pay a fraction of your actual salary! How are people supposed to survive on that?? The EDD needs a complete overhaul if you ask me.

Update: Just got my first payment this morning! It took exactly 2 business days after approval, and it was for 2 weeks worth (minus the waiting period). Thanks everyone for your help!

Thank you everyone for all the helpful responses! Just to update - I got my first payment today (5 days after approval) and it was for the full backpay minus the waiting week. Looks like payments will continue every two weeks as long as I'm certified. This community is awesome!

So happy to hear you got your first payment already! That's actually pretty fast for EDD - 5 days from approval is great timing. The biweekly schedule really does make budgeting easier once you get into the rhythm of it. Hope your recovery goes smoothly and you can get back to work when you're ready!

After dealing with EDD for my pregnancy disability claim last year, I found that getting through to an actual EDD agent who could help was half the battle. I wasted so much time on hold and getting disconnected. I finally used this service called Claimyr that got me connected to an EDD rep in about 15 minutes instead of spending hours redialing. You might want to check out their video to see how it works: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ?si=1hcSq3KFtCr4oAmd Once I got through to someone, I specifically asked for a tier 2 specialist who could handle account mergers. Regular agents often don't have the system access to fix these complex issues.

Quick update question - did you ever manage to get this resolved? I'm helping my sister with the same issue right now and wondering if the Priority Processing approach worked for you.