UPDATE: I got through to EDD this morning using that Claimyr service someone suggested (took 20 minutes instead of days of trying). The rep confirmed I should withdraw the SDI claim and file for PFL instead. She also mentioned that school employees with "reasonable assurance" of returning DO face additional scrutiny but PFL can still be approved with strong medical documentation. My wife's starting the PFL application today and we've scheduled an appointment with a benefits counselor at the regional center next week to discuss additional options. Thank you all for the help and guidance! Will update when we hear about the PFL claim.

So glad you were able to get through to EDD and get on the right track! Just wanted to add - when you're working with your son's psychiatrist on the medical certification, ask them to specifically mention things like safety risks, need for constant redirection, inability to be left alone, etc. EDD looks for concrete examples of why supervision is medically necessary, not just the diagnosis itself. Also, if your son has an IEP or 504 plan at school that documents his needs, include copies of those too - it helps show the consistency of his condition across different settings. Rooting for you both!

Ugh, the EDD strikes again! 🙄 I swear they do this on purpose to save money. Hang in there, OP. You're not alone in this mess.

I went through something similar a few months ago! My payments just stopped out of nowhere too. Turns out there was a "routine review" they triggered on my account that I never got notified about. I'd suggest logging into your EDD account and looking under the "Inbox" or "Notifications" section - sometimes important messages get buried there. Also check if your certification status changed to "pending" instead of "paid." If you can't find anything obvious, definitely try the online contact form first before calling. It took them about 2 weeks to respond to mine, but at least you'll have a paper trail. Hope this helps! 🤞

Has anyone else noticed that the website is down like every other day? How are we supposed to certify if we can't even access the system? 🤦‍♂️

Pro tip: if you're having trouble certifying online, try using a different browser or clearing your cache. Sometimes that fixes weird glitches in the system.

Ive been dealing with EDD for months now. heres a pro tip: document EVERYTHING. Every call, every letter, every email. You never know when youll need that info.

I went through the exact same thing last month! Got transferred between SDI and PFL like 5 times before someone finally helped me. Here's what worked: when you call the PFL line, immediately press 0 to try to get to a human instead of going through the automated menu. If that doesn't work, try calling the main EDD number (1-800-300-5616) and specifically ask them to transfer you to PFL corrections department. Also, if you have any paperwork from your original PFL filing, have that ready - they'll need your case number and SSN to pull up your file. Don't give up, it's frustrating but you'll get through eventually!

Yes, they absolutely do verify disabilities. While they may not always call your doctor, they review the medical certification form and can request additional medical records if they have questions. They can also require independent medical examinations if they suspect fraud. Disability fraud is taken very seriously and can result in penalties, repayment requirements, and even criminal charges in serious cases. Only apply if you have a legitimate disability certified by a doctor.

Good luck with your application, Maya! One more tip - once you submit your SDI claim, you'll get a confirmation number. Keep that handy because you'll need it if you have to call EDD about your claim status. Also, make sure to check your mail regularly because they'll send important notices about your claim approval/denial and payment information. The whole process can take 2-3 weeks from submission to first payment if everything goes smoothly. Hope your back heals up soon!