Ugh, I feel your pain. The whole system is a mess. Hang in there, and don't be afraid to be a squeaky wheel. Good luck!

I went through the exact same nightmare last year! Here's what finally worked for me: I kept detailed records of every interaction with ID.me (screenshots, case numbers, etc.) and then filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. Within 48 hours, I got a call from an ID.me escalation team who manually reviewed and restored my account. Also, while you're waiting, try calling EDD at exactly 8:00 AM - I literally set multiple alarms and hit redial until I got through. The wait was brutal but I eventually got a human who helped me submit a paper application as a backup. Don't give up - the system is broken but there are ways around it!

I went through this exact same transition last summer! You should definitely get your final SDI payment, but here's what I learned the hard way - make sure to keep all your documentation organized because sometimes EDD needs additional verification for that final payment. I also recommend setting aside some emergency funds if possible because that gap between your last SDI payment and first paycheck back can be longer than expected. My employer's payroll department was super helpful in explaining exactly when my first check would come, so definitely have that conversation with HR. Also, if you're feeling anxious about returning to work after a stress-related disability, don't hesitate to ease back in if your doctor and employer allow it. The transition can be overwhelming! Good luck with your return - you've got this!

I'm going through this exact transition right now too! Just wanted to add that when I called EDD yesterday (finally got through after using that Claimyr service someone mentioned), they told me something important: if your last day of disability falls on a weekend or holiday, it can sometimes delay the final payment processing by a few extra days. Since your last day is Friday 5/15, you should be fine, but it's worth keeping in mind. Also, I learned that if you have any unused sick days at work, some companies will let you use those for your first few days back to help bridge the gap until your regular paycheck kicks in. Might be worth asking HR about that option too. The whole process is definitely stressful when you're already dealing with recovery from a stress-related condition, but it sounds like you're being really proactive about planning ahead. That's going to serve you well! Hang in there - we're all rooting for each other through these transitions.

idk if this helps but I had a similar issue. turned out there was a glitch in my account that was fixed after I called. took forever to get through tho 😫

I had this exact same issue a few weeks ago! Here's what ended up working for me: Go to your UI Online account and click on "Claim History" instead of looking in your inbox. Sometimes the certification form shows up there even when it's not in your messages. Also, try using a different browser or device - I found mine when I switched from my phone to my laptop. If all else fails, you can actually certify over the phone by calling the EDD phone number (1-866-333-4606) and using their automated system. It's not ideal, but it works if you're running out of time before your deadline. Don't panic - there are ways to get this sorted! 🙏

UPDATE: I tried several of your suggestions! Used Claimyr this morning and actually got through to a real person after 25 minutes (compared to weeks of failed calls). The agent said there was a "payment verification flag" on my account due to a mismatch between my last employer's wage report and my claim. She removed the flag while I was on the phone and said I should receive ALL my back payments within 5-7 business days! I'm cautiously optimistic but this is the first real progress in months. Will update again when/if the money hits my account. Thank you all for the helpful advice!

I'm so relieved to hear you finally got through and found out what the issue was! This gives me hope for my own situation. I've been dealing with something similar - my SDI claim was approved 6 weeks ago but no payments yet. After reading all these responses, it sounds like these hidden "flags" and verification issues are way more common than they should be. It's absolutely ridiculous that approved claims can sit in limbo for months while people struggle financially. I'm definitely going to try the Claimyr service and also contact my assembly member's office. Thank you for sharing your update - please let us know when those back payments actually arrive!

Has anyone else noticed that the pay stubs for PFL look different from SDI? Threw me for a loop the first time I saw it.

Protip: If you're having trouble with the online system, try using a different browser. Chrome seems to work best for me.