EDD SDI benefits maxed out during pregnancy-related disability - Can I appeal incorrect benefit amount?

Sorry you're in this situation! For your first question, you've likely hit the maximum benefit amount (MBA) rather than just the standard duration. SDI typically pays up to 52 weeks, but there's a dollar maximum based on your base period wages. Once you've received that maximum amount, benefits stop even if you're still disabled. Regarding the incorrect calculation, you absolutely can and should appeal! You'll need to submit a "Request for Reconsideration" (DE 1000A form). Be sure to include paystubs or W-2s from BOTH jobs during your base period as evidence. The base period is the 12-month period approximately 5-18 months before your claim started. If they determine you were underpaid, you should receive backpay for the difference, even if your claim is technically closed. But be prepared - these appeals can take 2-3 months to process.

have u tried calling at exactly 8:00am? thats when i got thru last time but still had to wait like 45 min. also sometimes the oakland office picks up faster than the main number.

I WENT THROUGH ALMOST EXACTLY THIS!!! The SDI system is BROKEN when it comes to pregnancy complications!! I had hyperemesis and then postpartum hemorrhage that put me out for months longer than expected, and EDD cut me off saying I'd reached my max benefits. It's RIDICULOUS that they treat pregnancy disabilities like they have some magic end date when your doctor literally says you can't work! As for the wrong payment calculation - FIGHT THIS WITH EVERYTHING YOU HAVE!!! They did something similar to me (missed overtime pay in my calculation). The annoying part is you have to actually TALK to a real person to fix it which is nearly IMPOSSIBLE. I wasted weeks trying to get through on the phone. The ENTIRE SYSTEM is designed to wear you down until you give up. DON'T GIVE UP!!!

I went through something similar with my wage calculation being wrong. After weeks of trying to call with no luck, I found a service called Claimyr that got me connected to an EDD representative in about 20 minutes. It costs money but was completely worth it for me rather than spending hours hitting redial. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ?si=1hcSq3KFtCr4oAmd Once I got through, the representative was able to recalculate my benefits with my correct wages and process backpay for the difference. They also explained that for the claim duration issue, you need to have your doctor submit a new medical certification if they believe your condition warrants additional benefits beyond the standard duration. However, if you've hit your maximum benefit amount, that might be more challenging to address. The website is claimyr.com if you're interested. Good luck!

Regarding your underpayment issue - you have up to one year from the end of your benefit period to request a wage investigation. So don't worry, you haven't missed any deadline yet. For the DE 1000A form another commenter mentioned, you must mail it in. It cannot be submitted online. Mail it to the address printed on the form with COPIES (not originals) of your supporting documents. Make sure to send it certified mail so you have proof of when EDD received it. Unfortunately, regarding extending benefits beyond your maximum benefit amount - this is very rarely approved. SDI is designed with specific limits, and while medical extensions are possible within those limits, extending beyond the MBA is extremely difficult. Your best bet is to focus on getting the wage calculation corrected and receiving backpay for that difference. Have you looked into other assistance programs while you wait? You might qualify for temporary state disability assistance outside of EDD.

my siter had the wrong amount too but she never got it fixed cause it was too much hassle. just saying maybe focus on healing first and worry about money later? stress isn't good for recovery

To answer your question about the Oakland office - there isn't a separate public number for specific offices. All calls go through the main EDD disability line (1-800-480-3287). For other assistance programs, you might want to look into: 1. CalFresh (food assistance) 2. Housing assistance through your county's social services 3. Emergency rental assistance programs 4. LIHEAP for utility bill help Call 211 in your area for referrals to local programs that might be able to help while you're waiting for EDD to resolve your issues. They can connect you with resources specific to your situation.

Great news that you got through! Make sure to fill out that form completely and provide all documentation they request. The 4-6 week timeframe is fairly accurate in my experience, though sometimes they can resolve it faster if your case is straightforward. One more tip - after you mail in your reconsideration form, keep checking your SDI Online account for updates. Sometimes they'll post status changes there before sending official mail notifications. And don't hesitate to follow up if you haven't heard anything after 3-4 weeks. Good luck, and I hope your physical recovery goes smoothly as well!