Have you considered getting a lawyer? Some specialize in EDD appeals and might be able to help.

I'm going through a similar situation right now and this thread has been so helpful! @Anastasia Fedorov, one thing I'd add is to request all your records from EDD upfront - sometimes they have information in their system that wasn't included in your original disqualification notice. Also, if you have any medical documentation or employer records that support your case, make sure to include copies with your appeal. The process is definitely frustrating, but having everything organized and documented really does make a difference. Wishing you the best of luck with your hearing!

lol welcome to the wonderful world of california bureaucracy. where everything's made up and the points don't matter 🎭

Don't panic! This is actually a pretty common mistake and totally fixable. I had a similar situation with my disability claim last year. Here's what worked for me: 1. Call EDD as soon as possible - the earlier you catch it, the easier it is to fix 2. When you get through (yes, it might take a while), explain that you made an error on your start date and need to correct it from March 16 to April 16 3. They'll likely ask you to verify some information and explain why the date needs to change 4. Get a confirmation number or reference number for the change request Starting SDI 6 weeks after birth is totally normal and allowed - lots of people do this when they have employer-paid leave first. The key is just getting that date corrected so there's no confusion about overlapping benefits. You've got this! It's stressful but definitely not unfixable. Congrats on your new baby! 👶

Have you tried calling exactly at opening time? I've had luck getting through faster that way. Also, make sure you're calling the right department for your specific issue. Sometimes they transfer you around if you're not in the right queue.

I've been in your exact situation before! One trick that worked for me was calling back and explaining that I had already been speaking with someone and got disconnected. Sometimes they'll transfer you to a different queue or prioritize your call. Also, if you're still on hold, try pressing 0 or saying "representative" - sometimes it bypasses the automated system. The wait times are absolutely brutal, but don't hang up if you can help it. Your spot in line might be gone if you call back. Hang in there! 🤞

PSA: If you're having trouble with your disability claim, make sure you've submitted all the required medical documentation. That was what held up my claim for weeks.

I'm dealing with the exact same issue! My claim has been stuck for about 3 weeks now with no updates. I've been checking the portal religiously but nothing changes. It's so stressful when you're already dealing with a disability and then have to worry about whether your claim is even being processed. Has anyone had success with the message system on the EDD website? I'm wondering if that might be faster than trying to call.

My aunt filed for disability for similar reasons last year and while her claim was eventually approved, she had to wait almost 5 weeks to get her first payment. Just be prepared financially if you can. Good luck!

Hey Jamal, I went through something really similar about 6 months ago - toxic manager, stress-induced health issues, the whole nightmare. One thing that really helped me was keeping a detailed symptom diary that I could share with my doctor. I tracked my blood pressure readings, sleep patterns, anxiety episodes, etc. This gave my doctor concrete evidence to include in the medical certification. Also, if you haven't already, ask your doctor about getting a blood pressure monitor to use at home. Having those documented readings showing how your work stress is affecting your hypertension will strengthen your case significantly. My doctor said having that objective medical data made all the difference. One last tip - if you do decide to quit, try to give yourself a few days between leaving and filing your claim to decompress a bit. The application process can be stressful too, and you want to be in the right headspace to fill everything out accurately. Wishing you the best - you've got this!