Thank you all so much for the advice. I've made a checklist based on everything you've shared: 1. Continue UI certification honestly until surgery 2. Apply for SDI about a week before surgery (April 8-9) 3. Register for SDI Online through my existing BPO account 4. Make sure my doctor submits the DE 2501 with proper diagnosis codes ASAP after surgery 5. Understand there's a 7-day waiting period where I won't get paid 6. Follow up with my doctor's office to confirm they submitted paperwork 7. Keep that Claimyr service info in case I need to contact EDD directly Is there anything I'm missing? This has been incredibly helpful during such a stressful time.

My sister had craniotomy last yr and it took her nearly 9 months to recover enough to work again but she had issues with her benefits the whole time. The EDD keeps sending her paperwork to reconfirm she was still disabled. Make sure ur doctor is willing to keep filling out forms every month or two becuz EDD will require it for long term disability cases. My sis got so frustrated with the whole system.

I wanted to add one more important point: Your SDI benefits will be based on your highest-earning quarter in your base period. Since you mentioned being laid off recently and only working part-time now, your benefit amount will likely be based on your previous full-time job's wages, not your current part-time position. This is actually good news financially. The current maximum weekly SDI benefit in 2025 is $1,580, though most people receive less based on their income. Just make sure all your wage information is accurate when you file your claim. Also, request your claim to start immediately after your last day worked - don't wait or there could be gaps in your income. The 7-day waiting period is unpaid, but benefits start after that.

THE EDD IS A COMPLETE DISASTER WITH DISABILITY CLAIMS!!!! I had to call FIFTY EIGHT TIMES last month to get someone on the phone about my disability claim that was stuck in pending!!! They make everything IMPOSSIBLE and half the agents don't even know their own rules!!! Make sure you keep COPIES OF EVERYTHING and get your doctor to be SUPER specific about why you can't work. They denied my first claim because the doctor didn't write enough details even though I literally couldn't walk!!!!

i had a high risk pregnancy last year and my doctor did monthly certifications. actually ended up being helpful because i needed to extend my disability longer than originally planned due to complications and we just adjusted the next certification instead of having to file a new claim or extension. Just make sure your doctor submits EARLY!

Since you mentioned you're the sole provider right now, I highly recommend documenting everything. Take screenshots of your SDI Online account showing received certifications, payment histories, etc. Also keep a log of when forms were submitted by your doctor. If a payment delay happens (which is common with monthly certifications), having this documentation makes it easier to resolve. When I had issues, the EDD agent I finally reached was able to fix things much faster because I had all the certification dates and confirmation numbers ready. Also, consider asking your doctor to note in your file why they're doing monthly certifications instead of the standard pregnancy disability period. This can help if you ever need to appeal a decision.

my sister just had this exact problem! she got her doctor to backdate the form and it worked fine. dont stress too much!

Update: I just got off the phone with my OB's office and they're going to fill out the form today and fax it directly to EDD! The nurse was super understanding and said they'll include a note explaining the confusion about timing. Fingers crossed this works out! Thank you all for the advice and support!

just wondering has anyone tried applying for disability after workers comp ended? my situation is kinda different but im dealing with ongoing issues after my claim closed

Since your husband is already back at work, you might want to look into debt consolidation or hardship programs with your credit card companies. Many credit card issuers have hardship programs they don't advertise but will offer if you call and explain your situation. They can sometimes reduce interest rates, waive fees, or create affordable payment plans. Regarding any potential additional workers' comp benefits, if your husband received a final rating for his injury that was less than 100% recovery, he might be entitled to a permanent disability award that would provide additional compensation.