UPDATE: Finally got through to EDD this morning after 2 hours of calling! The representative confirmed they received my doctor's extension paperwork but it's in a processing backlog. She said the "final payment" label was automatically generated by their system because it reached my original return-to-work date, but it doesn't mean my benefits are actually terminated. She manually added a note to my claim and said I should see the extension reflected in my account within 7-10 business days. Fingers crossed it actually happens! Thanks everyone for your help.

Has anyone had their doctor submit extension papers but then EDD denies it? I'm in a similar situation but worried they'll say no even though my doctor says I need more time...

I just went through this exact situation in February! It was such a headache. After my SDI appeal was approved, I had to wait 10 business days for them to send a new card. I tried calling to expedite but they said appeals cases require a new card to be issued and they couldn't rush it. What I ended up doing was getting through to an EDD representative who helped process an emergency payment. They can actually issue a paper check in hardship situations that you can pick up at an EDD office. It's not widely advertised but it exists if you're in a dire situation with rent coming up. Do you have a disability case manager assigned to your appeal? If so, try contacting them directly rather than the main EDD line. They sometimes have direct lines that bypass the general queue.

UPDATE: Finally got this resolved! Used the Claimyr service someone recommended here to get through to EDD (took about 45 minutes instead of days of calling). The EDD rep confirmed they needed to send authorization to BofA, which they did while I was on the phone. Then called BofA, who verified they received the authorization and are expediting a new card to me (should arrive in 3 business days). For anyone else facing this issue, the key really is getting through to EDD - they have to initiate the reactivation process with BofA. Thank you everyone for your help and suggestions!

The REAL problem here is how complicated our benefits system is!!! Why should someone need a PhD just to figure out what benefits they're entitled to after working and paying taxes for years? The EDD system is BROKEN and designed to be confusing on purpose so people give up trying to get their benefits. Sorry for the rant but this makes me so mad every time I see posts like this.

To summarize for anyone in a similar situation: 1. You CAN file for UI after SDI/PFL if you were terminated before your disability began 2. You must be able and available for work when you apply for UI 3. The timing of your termination (right before medical leave) could potentially be illegal retaliation or FMLA violation 4. You cannot receive UI backpay for periods when you received SDI or PFL 5. Document everything carefully and be prepared to clearly explain your timeline to EDD 6. Expect possible processing delays, so have financial backup if possible 7. If denied, remember you have appeal rights Hope this helps clarify things for you and others!

I'm going through the exact same thing right now with this card transition! So frustrating. Did anyone else notice they're taking out different fees on these new cards compared to the BofA ones? I think there's a monthly maintenance fee now that wasn't there before. Also - quick question about the PFL transition since I'm doing the same thing next month. Do we use the same login for PFL as we do for disability, or is it a completely separate application?

UPDATE: I finally got through to someone at EDD after using the Claimyr service that someone mentioned above. They confirmed my payment from March 9th is waiting on the new Money Network card. Apparently, my card was mailed on March 4th, but with postal delays, it's taking longer than expected. The agent suggested that if I don't receive it by Monday, I should call Money Network directly to request an expedited replacement. I also asked about my PFL transition, and they said I can go ahead and submit my PFL claim now, even though my disability doesn't end until March 12th. The system will recognize that I'm transitioning from SDI to PFL and will start the PFL benefits after my disability ends. Thanks everyone for your help! This community has been so much more helpful than the official EDD information.

If your claim has been processing for 3 weeks, there might be an issue with your medical certification. Did your doctor complete the medical portion properly? That's often what causes delays. You should also check if there are any alerts in your SDI Online account that might indicate missing information. Sometimes they need additional documentation but don't clearly communicate that to you. The disability phone system is overwhelmed since the pandemic, so getting through requires persistence and patience.

UPDATE: I finally got through to EDD SDI! Called right at 8:00am and only had to wait 45 minutes. They told me my claim was delayed because they needed additional information from my employer. They're sending a request form today. The agent said once they receive that info, my claim should be processed within 7-10 days. Hope this helps!