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I'm also an out-of-state worker (Texas resident, CA employer) who successfully got alternate base period for pregnancy SDI last year! Reading through all these responses, everyone is giving solid advice. I wanted to add one more tip that really helped me: When you write your cover letter requesting alternate base period, include a sentence like "I am specifically requesting alternate base period calculation under California Unemployment Insurance Code Section 2708(b) due to insufficient wages in the standard base period." Citing the actual code section shows you know exactly what you're talking about and aren't just making a random request. Also, I'd recommend printing your application packet on slightly heavier paper (like 24lb instead of regular 20lb copy paper) and using a bright colored paper clip or binder clip to attach your cover letter. It sounds silly, but making your packet stand out physically helps ensure it gets the attention it deserves rather than getting lost in the shuffle. My total timeline was 5 weeks from submission to first payment, and I never had to appeal. The key really is being incredibly thorough and professional from the start. You've got great advice in this thread - you're going to do great!
This is incredibly helpful! I never would have thought to cite the actual code section, but you're absolutely right - it shows I'm not just randomly requesting something but actually understand the legal basis for alternate base period. That's such a professional touch that probably made a huge difference in how your application was processed. The tip about heavier paper and bright colored clips is brilliant too! I work in marketing and we use similar tactics to make important documents stand out, but I never thought to apply that strategy to government paperwork. Making your packet physically distinctive is such a smart way to ensure it doesn't get buried in the pile. 5 weeks with no appeals is exactly what I'm hoping for! It's so encouraging to hear another success story, especially from someone who took such a methodical approach. I'm definitely going to include that code citation and make my packet stand out visually. Thank you for sharing these specific tactical details - sometimes it's the small professional touches that make all the difference with bureaucratic processes like this!
I'm going through this EXACT same situation right now - Nevada resident, 15 weeks pregnant, working remotely for a CA company, and absolutely need alternate base period! This thread has been a goldmine of information. I just wanted to add one more resource that's been helpful: I contacted my state's Department of Labor (Nevada) to confirm that I don't qualify for any pregnancy benefits here, and they gave me a letter stating that. I'm planning to include this with my CA application as additional documentation showing why I need CA SDI benefits. Also, for anyone tracking timelines - I'm due in September so I have a bit more buffer time, but I'm planning to submit everything by mid-May based on all the advice here about 5-6 week processing times. One question for those who've been successful: did any of you have issues with EDD asking for additional medical documentation beyond the normal pregnancy forms since you're out-of-state? I'm wondering if I should get extra letters from my doctor just in case. Thank you to everyone sharing their experiences - you're literally saving my sanity and probably my financial stability during this pregnancy!
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I'm going through something similar right now! I had back surgery in January and now I'm scheduled for carpal tunnel surgery next month. Reading through all these responses has been super helpful - especially hearing from people who actually went through multiple claims in the same year. One thing I wanted to add that my doctor's office mentioned - they said to make sure I bring a copy of my previous SDI paperwork when I go in for the pre-surgery appointment for my second surgery. Apparently it helps them fill out the new disability forms more accurately since they can see exactly how the previous claim was documented. Also, has anyone dealt with the situation where your employer's HR department gets confused about multiple disability claims? Mine keeps asking if this is an extension of my first claim and I keep having to explain that these are completely different body parts! Just wondering if that's a common issue or if it's just my HR department being overly cautious. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences - it's really helping me feel more confident about the process for my upcoming surgery!
That's a great tip about bringing your previous SDI paperwork to help the doctor's office! I hadn't thought of that but it makes total sense that it would help them document everything consistently. As for HR being confused - yes, that's definitely a thing! My HR department did the same thing with my shoulder and knee surgeries. I think they're just not used to people having multiple unrelated medical issues so close together. I ended up having to get a letter from my orthopedist specifically stating that the knee surgery was "completely unrelated to and separate from the previous rotator cuff surgery" just to satisfy HR. It was annoying but probably worth it to avoid any potential complications with either my job or the insurance paperwork. Good luck with your carpal tunnel surgery! At least we're all becoming experts on the SDI process after going through it multiple times in one year.
I'm new to this community but dealing with a similar situation right now! I had hernia surgery in February and just found out I need to have my gallbladder removed in a few weeks. Reading through everyone's experiences here has been incredibly helpful - it sounds like since both my surgeries will be within the same 12-month period, I should expect the same benefit calculation for both claims. One question I have after reading all these responses: should I be proactive and call EDD before filing my second claim to give them a heads up that this is a completely separate medical condition? Or is it better to just file the claim and then call to confirm it was processed correctly? I'm trying to avoid any potential delays or complications. Also, thank you to everyone who shared their real experiences with multiple SDI claims - it's so much more helpful than trying to decipher the official EDD website! This community is a great resource.
Welcome to the community! Based on what I've seen from everyone's experiences here, I'd recommend just filing the claim normally and then calling afterward to confirm it was processed correctly. Calling beforehand might actually create more confusion since their phone reps don't always have the full picture of how claims get processed in their system. The key things seem to be: 1) Make sure your doctor clearly documents that this is a "new and unrelated condition" on the disability certificate, 2) Have all your medical documentation ready when you file, and 3) Call after filing to confirm they processed it as a separate claim rather than trying to link it to your hernia surgery. Since your surgeries are only a few weeks apart, you should definitely get the same benefit calculation as your first claim. Good luck with the gallbladder surgery - dealing with multiple surgeries so close together is exhausting but at least the SDI process gets more familiar!
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This is such a stressful situation, and I'm so sorry you're dealing with this right before is due! I've been following this community for a while and just wanted to share what worked for me in a similar situation. Beyond all the great advice already given, I'd suggest trying to access your through 's mobile app if you haven't already - sometimes forms appear there when they don't show up on the website. Also, if you have any local disability rights organizations in your area, they often have direct contacts at who can help expedite missing forms. I called the Coalition for Disability Rights in my county and they were able to get my missing released within hours. Another thing that helped me was emailing a copy of my notice to along with my inquiry - it seemed to add urgency to my case. The fact that your status changed overnight from automatic to needing a definitely sounds like a system error on their end. Keep pushing and don't let them make you feel like this delay is your responsibility. You've got this, and hopefully this gets resolved quickly!
This is such great advice, Nia! I'm completely new to this community but stumbled across this thread while searching for help with my own issues. @9efb71, I wanted to add one more thing that might help - if you're still unable to access the DE 2593 online, you can actually request it be faxed to you directly. When you call the disability line, ask them to fax the to a local library, FedEx Office, or anywhere with a fax machine if you don't have one at home. Sometimes this is faster than waiting for the system to work properly. Also, the mobile app suggestion is brilliant - I've noticed 's systems don't always sync properly between desktop and mobile, so it's definitely worth checking both. The disability rights organization tip is gold too - I had no idea those resources existed. It's incredible how many hoops people have to jump through just to get the benefits they're entitled to. Really hoping you get this sorted out before Friday! This community seems amazing for support and practical solutions.
I'm so sorry you're dealing with this stress, especially with due so soon! This is unfortunately a really common issue with 's system. Here are a few things that have helped me and others in similar situations: First, try calling the disability line at 1-800-480-3287 right at 8:00 AM - the wait times are usually much shorter first thing in the morning. When you get through, ask them to manually check if your DE 2593 is stuck in "pending upload" status - sometimes they can push it through to your immediately. Also, try logging out completely, clearing your browser cache, and logging back in - I've seen missing forms suddenly appear after doing this. If you have a smartphone, try accessing your through the mobile browser too, as sometimes forms show up on mobile that aren't visible on desktop. In the meantime, definitely contact your landlord to explain the situation - most understand that delays aren't your fault, especially if you show them screenshots proving the isn't available online. You might also want to reach out to 211 for emergency assistance resources while this gets sorted out. The fact that it switched from "automatic payments" to needing a overnight definitely sounds like a system glitch, so document everything with timestamps and screenshots. Hang in there - this community is rooting for you!
This is really comprehensive advice, Omar! I'm brand new to this community but found this thread while desperately searching for help with my own similar situation. @9efb71, I wanted to add that if you're still having trouble after trying all these suggestions, you might also want to check if there are any local legal aid organizations in your area that specialize in benefits issues - they often have established relationships with staff and can sometimes get forms released or issues expedited more quickly than individual calls. Also, when you do get through to EDD, ask them to put a note in your file about the system showing "automatic payments" one day and then requiring a the next - this creates a paper trail that could help if there are any future processing delays or penalties. The stress of dealing with housing insecurity because of government system failures is just awful, but it sounds like you're doing everything right by documenting and reaching out for help. This community seems incredibly supportive and knowledgeable!
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I went through something similar last year! EDD initially assigned me a doctor 95 miles away for my disability evaluation. What saved me was getting my treating physician to write a detailed letter explaining how the long drive would worsen my condition and potentially cause a flare-up. I also researched the specific EDD regulations and found that they're required to make reasonable accommodations under disability laws. When I called (early morning around 8 AM worked best), I calmly explained my situation and referenced both the medical documentation and their legal obligation to accommodate. It took persistence - about 4 calls total - but they eventually found me a doctor only 15 miles away. Don't let them bully you into that ridiculous drive. You have rights, and they absolutely can find closer alternatives if you advocate for yourself properly!
This is such a relief to read! I'm dealing with the exact same situation right now and your success story gives me so much hope. I love how you mentioned researching the actual EDD regulations - that's really smart. I'm going to ask my doctor for a detailed letter about how the 110-mile drive would worsen my back pain, and I'll definitely use your approach about referencing their legal obligations. Four calls seems totally doable if it means getting a reasonable accommodation. Thank you for sharing the specifics of what worked - this community is amazing!
I'm dealing with this exact issue right now too! EDD assigned me a doctor 130 miles away and I have fibromyalgia that makes long car rides unbearable. Reading everyone's advice here has been so helpful - especially the tips about getting a detailed letter from your doctor and mentioning ADA accommodations. I had no idea we could push back on this! Going to try calling first thing tomorrow morning with all these strategies. It's so frustrating that we have to fight this hard just to get basic reasonable accommodations, but at least now I know it's possible. Thanks to everyone who shared their success stories - you're giving me hope that I can get this sorted out too!
Ethan Clark
Just wanted to add my recent experience to help with your timeline expectations! I submitted my first SDI certification about 3 weeks ago for a wrist injury, and my payment showed up exactly 6 business days later. What really helped me track it was checking the "Payment Activity" section in my SDI Online account - you can see when it moves from "pending" to "issued" status there. One thing I wish someone had told me upfront: even though the payment processed in 6 days, it took an additional 1-2 days for the direct deposit to actually hit my bank account. So factor that in when you're planning your budget! Also, yes you'll need to certify every 2 weeks going forward. They usually send you an email reminder a day or two before your next certification period opens up. The whole process gets much smoother after that first payment hurdle. Good luck with your recovery! 💙
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Aisha Ali
•That's super helpful to know about the extra 1-2 days for direct deposit! I hadn't thought about that timing difference. So really I should be thinking 8-10 days total from certification to money in my actual bank account. Thank you for breaking down the "Payment Activity" section too - I'll make sure to check that instead of just the main dashboard. It's so reassuring to hear from someone who just went through this recently. Wishing you a speedy recovery with your wrist! 🙏
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Ryan Andre
I'm currently going through my first SDI claim too and this thread has been SO helpful! I submitted my certification 4 days ago and have been checking my account obsessively (oops 😅). It's really reassuring to see that most people get their first payment within that 7-10 day window. One question for everyone - I noticed my claim status still shows "pending" but I can see my certification went through successfully. Is that normal, or should I be seeing some kind of status change by now? I'm trying to figure out if "pending" just means they're processing it or if there might be an issue I need to follow up on. Thanks to everyone who's shared their experiences here - it really helps to know what to expect when you're navigating this for the first time! 🤞
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Alexander Evans
•Hey Ryan! I'm actually in the exact same boat as you - new to SDI and anxiously waiting for that first payment! From what I've been reading in all these responses, it sounds like "pending" is totally normal at this stage. Most people seem to say it stays pending until the payment actually gets processed and issued. I think as long as your certification shows as submitted successfully, you're probably good to go! I'm on day 2 after certifying and also checking way too often 😂 Let's both try to be patient and give it that full week before we start worrying. Keep me posted on when yours comes through - it would be cool to compare timelines since we're going through this at the same time!
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