Can I file new EDD SDI claim with previous balance from 2015 while self-employed?

Unfortunately, disability benefits don't work that way. Old claim balances don't stay available for years - each SDI claim is tied to a specific disability period and has a maximum benefit period (usually up to 52 weeks). More importantly, to qualify for SDI, you need to have paid into the system through payroll deductions within the base period, which is typically 5-18 months before your claim. Since you've been self-employed, unless you paid into Disability Insurance Elective Coverage (DIEC), you wouldn't qualify for standard SDI benefits.

sorta in the same boat, was on disabilty in 2020, went back to work then got hurt again. thought I could just reopen my old claim but nope! had to file all new paperwork, restart the waiting period, everything. its all date-specific

To add to what others have said, there are actually a few options worth exploring in your situation: 1. If you paid Self-Employment Taxes (Schedule SE), check if you opted into the Disability Insurance Elective Coverage (DIEC) program. If you did, you might be eligible for SDI benefits. 2. If you have private disability insurance, now would be the time to file a claim with them. 3. Look into Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) if your condition is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The qualification process is much stricter than state disability. 4. Some counties have General Assistance programs for those unable to work due to disability. Regarding your 2015 claim - that money is unfortunately no longer available. Claims expire and don't carry balances forward across years.

THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO MAKE IT IMPOSSIBLE FOR SELF-EMPLOYED PEOPLE!!! I went through this nightmare last year. Unless you specifically signed up for the elective coverage program (which is EXPENSIVE and most self-employed people don't even know about), you're completely out of luck with SDI. And getting SSDI is practically impossible unless you're literally unable to work at ALL. The system punishes entrepreneurs and freelancers. It's infuriating!!

I actually called EDD about a similar situation last month - had an old claim from 2019 and was curious if I could access that money for a new disability. Spent FOUR DAYS trying to get through to someone. Kept getting disconnected or waiting on hold for hours only to have the call drop. Finally used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to connect with an agent. They have this system that holds your place in line and calls you when an agent is available - saved me so much frustration. They have a video demo here: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ?si=1hcSq3KFtCr4oAmd When I finally spoke to someone, they confirmed what others here are saying - old claim money doesn't roll over, and self-employed people need to have opted into DIEC to qualify. Might be worth calling to see if there are any other programs they can suggest for your situation though.

have u checked out the paid family leave program? might not apply exactly but worth looking into maybe?

When I had to deal with disability last year, I found that reaching out to an EDD disability advocate helped a lot. They can sometimes point you to resources you wouldn't find on your own. My sister went through something similar being self-employed and ended up finding assistance through a non-profit specific to her medical condition. Have you looked into condition-specific organizations that might offer financial assistance?

Since you mentioned having Crohn's disease - definitely check out the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation as they have patient assistance programs. Also, most major pharmaceutical companies have patient assistance programs if you're on any expensive medications. Regarding disability options: one last thing to consider is if you've had ANY W-2 employment at all in the last 18 months, even part-time or temporary, as that might establish some SDI eligibility. The system looks at your highest-earning quarter in the base period to determine if you qualify and how much you'd receive.

Just wanted to say I'm sorry you're going through this. The healthcare/disability system in this country is so broken, especially for self-employed people. Hope you find some help and feel better soon!

I'm a freelance graphic designer who went through something similar a few years ago. One thing that really helped me was contacting 211 (dial 2-1-1) - they connect you with local resources for people dealing with medical issues and financial hardship. They helped me find a clinic that offered sliding-scale payments and connected me with a food bank when I couldn't work for a few months. It's not disability benefits, but it can help bridge the gap while you're dealing with your health issues. Also, if you're having trouble affording your Crohn's medications, GoodRx and similar apps can sometimes help reduce costs significantly. Wishing you the best!