Anyone else feel like the EDD is run by a bunch of 🤡🤡🤡? How hard is it to process claims efficiently in 2023? SMH

I went through the exact same thing a few months ago! Here's what finally worked for me: First, log into your UI Online account and check for any pending items or messages - sometimes they're buried in there. Then, make sure your ID.me verification is complete. If those are good, you'll need to get a tier 2 specialist on the phone. I know calling is a nightmare, but try calling right at 8 AM when they open. Keep hitting redial until you get through. When you do get someone, be super specific about your issue and ask to speak to a claims specialist if the first person can't help. Document everything - names, times, what they tell you. It took me about a week of persistent calling, but once I got the right person, they fixed it in one call. Don't give up! The system is broken but you can get through it. 💪

I'm about 2 weeks into waiting for my extension approval after my doctor submitted paperwork for my chronic pain condition. This entire thread has been such a lifeline - I had no idea so many others were going through the exact same thing! The range of timelines is both comforting and concerning, but it's really helpful to see that most people do get approved within 3-4 weeks. I'm definitely going to call my doctor's office tomorrow to ask about that medical provider line everyone keeps mentioning. Never knew that was even an option! Also saving that Claimyr info just in case I need it after the 4-week mark. The financial anxiety while dealing with a medical condition is brutal, but reading everyone's experiences and advice here makes me feel so much less alone in this process. Thanks to everyone for being so open about sharing their timelines and tips!

I'm currently on day 11 of waiting for my extension approval after my doctor submitted paperwork for my herniated disc. This thread has been incredibly helpful and reassuring! It's crazy how many of us are going through the exact same waiting process right now. Reading everyone's experiences has taught me so much - I had no idea about that medical provider line that doctors can call, and I'm definitely going to ask my spine specialist about using it when I see them on Friday. The 2-4 week timeline that keeps coming up gives me hope, though I know each day feels like an eternity when you're stressed about bills. I'm also bookmarking that Claimyr service as a backup plan if I hit the 4-week mark without any movement. The combination of physical pain and financial anxiety is really tough, but seeing Jason's success story and all the support in this community makes me feel less alone in this process. Thanks everyone for sharing your timelines and tips - it's making such a difference for those of us currently in the waiting phase!

I'm going through something similar right now with a shoulder injury that's taking longer to heal than expected. Reading through all these responses has been incredibly helpful - especially the detailed advice about timing and follow-up with the doctor's office. One thing I wanted to add is that when I called EDD last week (after many attempts), the representative told me that they're currently seeing longer processing times for extensions due to high volume, so getting that DE 2525XX form submitted as early as possible is even more critical right now. She also mentioned that if there are any issues with the form (like incomplete sections or illegible handwriting), they'll send it back to the doctor which can cause significant delays. I'd recommend asking your doctor to double-check that all sections are complete and legible before they submit it. Also, if your doctor's office has the option to fax it rather than mail it, that tends to be faster. Hope your back heals up soon!

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now - my physical therapist just recommended extending my disability for a torn rotator cuff. This thread has been a goldmine of information! Based on everything I've read here, I'm going to make sure my doctor submits the DE 2525XX form at least 2 weeks before my current end date, and I'll definitely follow up to confirm they actually sent it. The tip about asking for the maximum time needed upfront is brilliant - I don't want to go through this extension process multiple times. One quick question for those who've been through this: when you say "fax is faster than mail," do you know if there's a specific fax number for extensions, or is it the same general EDD fax line? Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences - it's making this whole process much less scary!

I'm so sorry you're going through this - pregnancy complications are scary enough without having to worry about finances too! I went through a similar situation with my first pregnancy (emergency cerclage at 22 weeks) and was approved for SDI without any issues. A few practical tips that helped me: - Apply online through SDI Online ASAP - don't wait for your doctor's office to send the forms - When your doctor fills out the DE 2501, make sure they include specific measurements of your cervix length and mention the hospitalizations - Keep copies of everything you submit - I had to resend documents twice because they got "lost" in the system - Set up text alerts for your claim status so you know immediately if they need additional info The hardest part for me was the mental aspect of being on bed rest for 16 weeks, but having that financial security from SDI made it so much easier to focus on staying healthy. Your baby is lucky to have a mom who's taking these precautions seriously. Feel free to reach out if you have questions as you go through the process - this community has been incredibly helpful during tough times!

I'm currently going through this exact situation! I'm 24 weeks pregnant and was just approved for SDI due to incompetent cervix and preterm labor scares. Here's what I learned from my recent experience: 1. File your claim online immediately - don't wait for your doctor's office to handle it 2. Make sure your OB includes your exact cervical measurements on the DE 2501 (mine was 1.8cm when normal is 3-4cm) 3. List all your hospitalizations with dates - this strengthens your case significantly 4. Be very specific about your job duties that you can't perform (standing, lifting, walking, etc.) My claim was approved within 10 days and I received my first payment about 2 weeks after filing. The weekly amount was around 60% of my regular wages, which has been a lifesaver. One thing that really helped me was joining some online bed rest support groups - the isolation is real, but connecting with other moms going through similar situations has made a huge difference for my mental health. Your health and baby's safety come first. Don't feel guilty about needing this time off - pregnancy complications are legitimate medical conditions that absolutely qualify for disability benefits. Sending you strength during this challenging time!

Hey everyone! I'm relatively new to this community but wanted to add my perspective as someone who works in benefits administration. Reading through this thread, I'm really impressed by how thorough and accurate most of the advice has been! Just to reinforce what others have said - out-of-state medical certification is absolutely acceptable for California SDI. The key requirements are: 1) the physician must be licensed (any state), 2) complete all sections of the medical certification form, 3) provide proper diagnosis codes, and 4) include their license number. @Alexis, it sounds like you've got an excellent plan in place! One small addition to all the great advice already given - when you file your initial claim, make sure to select "yes" if asked whether you'll be receiving treatment outside of California. This helps set the right expectation with EDD from the start. The fact that your treatment facility is already familiar with handling disability paperwork from multiple states is a huge plus. Many facilities that specialize in residential treatment are well-versed in these requirements since people travel from all over for specialized care. Wishing you the very best with your treatment journey - you're taking such a positive step, and it's clear you're approaching it with great preparation and planning!

Hi @Alexis! As someone who's new to this community, I just wanted to say how impressed I am by all the detailed and helpful advice you've received here. It's clear you're in great hands with this group! I don't have personal experience with out-of-state SDI claims, but I wanted to add one small thing that might be helpful - since you mentioned you're feeling nervous about the whole process, consider creating a simple checklist or timeline for yourself with all the key steps mentioned in this thread. Things like: call treatment facility (✓), file initial claim before leaving, get confirmation numbers, etc. Sometimes having everything written down in one place can help reduce that pre-treatment anxiety. It sounds like you've done an amazing job preparing for both the practical and medical aspects of your treatment. The fact that you're being so proactive about handling the SDI paperwork while also focusing on your recovery shows real strength and planning. Wishing you all the best with your 12-week program - you've got this!