Can I return to work while on SDI and reapply later with same wage calculation?

u can always go back on SDI if u need to but the way they figure out ur money might change. depends how long ur back at work i think

This is a common concern! If you return to work and then need to file a new disability claim for the same or related condition within 60 days, it's considered a continuation of your current claim. Your benefit amount would remain the same, and you wouldn't need to serve another waiting period. If you're back at work for more than 60 days before needing to file again, it would be considered a new claim with a new benefit calculation based on your most recent base period earnings. Make sure to inform EDD when you return to work by calling or using SDI Online. And keep documenting your medical condition during this transition!

So frustrated with this exact situation!!! I went back for 3 weeks and my condition got worse. When I tried calling EDD to restart my claim they put me on hold FOR TWO HOURS and then hung up!!! Did this THREE TIMES!!! How are sick people supposed to deal with this??!!

Good luck with that. My sister tried going back to work for a month but had to go back on disability. They made her file a whole new claim and her benefit was like half of what it was before. The system is designed to punish people for trying to work.

I went thru this last year! If you go back to work and then need disability again for the same medical condition within 60 days, it's considered a "continuing claim" and you'll keep the same benefit calculation and don't have to do another waiting week. BUT if you're back at work more than 60 days or it's a different condition, then it's a new claim with new wage calculation. Make sure you keep detailed documentation about when you stop receiving benefits and when you start working again. And definitely tell your doctor about your plan so they can support whatever paperwork might be needed if you have to go back on disability.

Thank you all for this information! I'm going to try returning to work part-time but will be super careful about tracking the 60-day window in case I need to go back on disability. And I'll make sure my doctor knows what's happening so they can help with any paperwork needed. Really appreciate all the advice!

Just wanted to add that it's really important to keep all your medical documentation updated during this transition period. I made the mistake of not scheduling follow-up appointments with my doctor while I was attempting to work, and when I needed to go back on disability, there was a gap in my medical records that caused delays in processing my claim. Even if you're feeling better enough to try working, keep those doctor appointments scheduled so you have continuous documentation of your condition. Also, consider asking your doctor to write a note stating that your return to work is on a trial basis due to your medical condition - this can help support your case if you need to go back on disability quickly.

One thing I'd add is to consider doing a "trial work period" approach if your doctor thinks you might be able to handle part-time work. Start with just a few hours a week and gradually increase if you're tolerating it well. This way you can test your limits without jumping into full work mode right away. I did this with my employer when I was transitioning back - they were understanding about the gradual increase in hours. Also, make sure your employer knows about your medical situation so they can be flexible if you need to reduce hours or take time off for medical appointments. Some employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations under ADA, which could include modified schedules during your transition period.