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Just a heads up that when I was on SDI for pregnancy last year (2024), they required me to submit WEEKLY certifications online through the SDI Online portal. Make sure you certify every week that you're still disabled, or your payments can be delayed or stopped. The system will send you reminders, but sometimes they go to spam, so check your account regularly.
One additional consideration: if you're approved for SDI based on pregnancy disability, and you later give birth, you'll transition to recovery benefits automatically (typically 6-8 weeks depending on delivery type). After that recovery period ends, you may be eligible for Paid Family Leave (PFL) for bonding with your newborn for up to 8 weeks. The entire sequence could look like: 1. Pregnancy Disability Leave (from doctor certification until birth) 2. Recovery period (6-8 weeks post-birth) 3. PFL bonding time (up to 8 weeks) This means you could potentially have continuous wage replacement from now until several months after your baby is born. Just something to plan for!
I had no idea about the potential for continuous coverage! That would be such a relief financially. I'll need to look into whether my per diem status affects my eligibility for the full sequence, but this gives me hope. Thank you so much for all the detailed information everyone has provided. I feel much better prepared for my doctor's appointment tomorrow.
One more thing to keep in mind - don't expect your payments to start right away! Even after the waiting period, EDD can take 2-3 weeks to process your claim and issue first payment. Make sure you have some savings to cover that gap. I remember being stressed about bills when my payments didn't show up right away.
applyfor BOTH!!! thats what my neigbor did when she got hurt and couldnt decide and she ended up getting aproved for disability even tho she applied for both. they just denied the UI part.
This is actually incorrect advice and could cause problems. Filing for both UI and SDI simultaneously can trigger a review flag in EDD's system since the programs have contradictory eligibility requirements. UI requires you to certify you're able and available to work, while SDI requires certification that you cannot work due to disability. Making contradictory statements could lead to delays or even fraud investigations. It's much better to apply for the correct program (SDI in this case) from the start.
UPDATE: I wanted to thank everyone for their helpful advice! I submitted the SDI application online yesterday and made sure his doctor completed the medical certification part today. The doctor included detailed notes about the traumatic brain injury, cognitive impairment, and 8-week minimum recovery timeline. I did mention his current commission-based employment but focused on his previous work history for the base period as suggested. Now I'm just anxiously waiting to see if they approve it. The hospital bills are already coming in, and I'm trying to figure out how to handle all our regular expenses too. I'll update again when I hear something about the claim status. Fingers crossed it won't take too long!
Update on your options: 1. Continue trying to call the main SDI number (difficult but free) 2. Use Claimyr to connect with an agent (costs money but immediate) 3. Visit an EDD office in person if possible 4. Contact your state representative's office for help Option #4 is underutilized but effective. Your state assembly member or senator has staff dedicated to helping constituents with state agency issues. Google "[your city] state representative" and call their office explaining your situation. They can often get EDD to expedite your claim.
Laila Fury
not to be a downer but the system is RIGGED against us. my cousin lost her appeal even with all the right documentation because the employer straight up LIED during the hearing. make sure you interrupt and correct them if they state wrong dates!!! dont be polite - this is your money and benefits at stake!!!
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Jean Claude
•While it's important to correct misinformation, I would caution against interrupting during a hearing. Instead, take notes of any false statements and address them when it's your turn to speak. Judges typically don't respond well to interruptions, and it could hurt your credibility. Staying calm and organized is usually the best approach.
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Chris Elmeda
Update: I used Claimyr today and actually got through to EDD! The representative confirmed that my SDI claim is valid and separate from the UI issue, which is a huge relief. She also added detailed notes to my file about the timeline of events. I've gathered all my documentation including text messages with my boss showing I never refused work during February or March. I've also got a new letter from my doctor confirming my bed rest started specifically on March 15th due to pregnancy complications. The phone hearing is scheduled for next week. I'm still nervous but feeling much more prepared now. Thank you all for your advice and support!
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Josef Tearle
•Great news! Having those notes in your EDD file will be extremely helpful. For the hearing, remember to let the judge know you have documentation contradicting your employer's claims about January work refusals. Best of luck, and please update us after the hearing!
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Charity Cohan
•good luck!!! you got this!!!
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