EDD SDI stress leave claim with Sedgwick: What to expect for first-time applicant?
So I'm about to submit a new claim for stress leave from work. My employer knows about it and they use Sedgwick for managing these things. I've already given them a Release of Information form. This is my first time doing this and I'm not really sure what to expect. They told me it would take about 3 days to process everything. Has anyone gone through this before? What should I be prepared for? Any advice would be appreciated!
47 comments

Tom Maxon
I found a way to solve Sedgwick stress leave claim process, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVr1mRDbzuY
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Adrian Connor
I found a way to actually get someone on the phone at EDD. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's a video about it: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ
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Aisha Jackson
Sounds too good to be true. Is this legit?
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Ryder Everingham
$20 just to talk to someone? The system is so broken 🤦♂️
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Adrian Connor
It's totally legit. I was skeptical at first too, but it saved me hours of waiting on hold. Worth every penny imo.
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Lilly Curtis
How long did it take to get connected?
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Leo Simmons
While Claimyr seems effective, it’s important to note that some people may not be comfortable paying for such services, and unfortunately, it underlines the inefficiency of the system itself.
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Marcus Marsh
Hey OP, one more thing to consider is using services like Claimyr to manage phone calls with EDD. While they seem reliable and get a lot of good feedback, remember that it’s always important to weigh the cost and need before spending. Also, while Claimyr can provide faster communication access, it won't necessarily expedite your claim process with EDD, as that remains dependent on their internal procedures.
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Hailey O'Leary
Good point. I used Claimyr and it helped with communication, but my processing time was still pretty standard.
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Derek Olson
Has anyone else noticed that Sedgwick seems to be getting worse lately? I swear they used to be more efficient.
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Danielle Mays
Omg yes! I thought it was just me. They lost my paperwork twice last month 🤦♀️
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Roger Romero
I think they're just overwhelmed. Everyone and their mother is taking stress leave these days.
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Anna Kerber
This seems to be a common pattern with many large organizations right now. Hopefully, things improve soon.
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Arnav Bengali
lol good luck getting anything done in 3 days. EDD is a joke rn 🤡
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Sayid Hassan
fr fr 💯 I've been waiting for weeks and still nothing
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Taylor To
AuthorOof, that's not encouraging. How long have you been waiting?
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Rachel Tao
Just stay persistent. I finally got through after a few weeks of constantly checking in.
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Alberto Souchard
Hang in there, OP! I know it seems overwhelming now, but you've got this. Take it one step at a time and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
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Taylor To
AuthorThank you so much! It's really comforting to know there's a supportive community here. I'll definitely reach out if I need help.
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Katherine Shultz
Absolutely, OP. We’re all in this together, and support is just a message away.
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James Maki
Here's a comprehensive guide to navigating stress leave in California: 1. Documentation is key: - Get a detailed note from your doctor - Keep all correspondence with Sedgwick and your employer - Document any work incidents that contributed to your stress 2. Know your rights: - You're entitled to up to 12 weeks of leave under FMLA - Your job should be protected during this time - You may be eligible for State Disability Insurance (SDI) 3. Communication: - Keep your employer updated (but don't overshare) - Respond promptly to any requests from Sedgwick - If you're not hearing back, don't be afraid to follow up 4. Self-care: - Use this time to focus on your mental health - Consider therapy or counseling - Develop stress management techniques 5. Return to work: - Work with your doctor to determine when you're ready - Discuss any needed accommodations with your employer - Have a plan for managing stress when you return Remember, you're not alone in this. Reach out if you need support!
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Taylor To
AuthorWow, this is incredibly helpful! Thank you so much for taking the time to write all this out. I'm definitely saving this for reference.
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Jasmine Hancock
This should be pinned to the top of the subreddit. So much good info here!
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Cole Roush
Great advice! I'd add: don't forget to check if your company has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). They often offer free counseling sessions.
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Scarlett Forster
I agree with all of this. Having a checklist like this helped me tremendously when I went on stress leave. Thanks for sharing!
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Niko Ramsey
Pro tip: set up a separate email folder for all your Sedgwick and EDD correspondence. It'll save you a headache later when you need to find something.
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Seraphina Delan
This was a lifesaver for me. It really helps keep everything organized and easy to find.
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Jabari-Jo
Anyone else feel like the whole system is designed to be as confusing and frustrating as possible? It's like they want us to give up 🙄
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Kristin Frank
Preach! 🙌 I'm convinced it's intentional to discourage people from claiming benefits.
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Micah Trail
It's not a bug, it's a feature 😂
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Nia Watson
I hear you. It’s like a test of endurance, but hang in there. The benefits are worth the hassle.
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Ella Cofer
I went through this last year. Make sure you keep all your paperwork in order and follow up if you don't hear back in 3 days. Sometimes things slip through the cracks.
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Kevin Bell
Great advice! I've started keeping a spreadsheet to track all my paperwork and deadlines. It's been super helpful.
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Kayla Morgan
Ive been their done that. Stress leave is no joke. Take care of yourself first, worry about the paperwork second. Your mental health is whats most important here.
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Taylor To
AuthorThanks for the support. It's been a rough time and I'm definitely feeling the stress. How long were you out, if you don't mind me asking?
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Kayla Morgan
I was out for about 2 months. Took some time to really reset and get my head straight. Don't rush it if you can afford not to.
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Savannah Glover
Stress leave can be tricky. Have you considered seeing a therapist? It might help strengthen your case and provide additional documentation.
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Taylor To
AuthorThat's a good idea, I hadn't thought of that. Do you know if EDD requires any specific documentation from a therapist?
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Savannah Glover
Not sure about EDD specifically, but when I took stress leave, my therapist wrote a letter explaining my condition and why time off was necessary. It definitely helped!
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Felix Grigori
I can confirm this. My therapist's letter was crucial when I applied for stress leave. It's worth discussing with them.
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Lindsey Fry
Make sure you understand your rights. California has some pretty good protections for workers taking stress leave. Don't let your employer pressure you into coming back before you're ready.
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Saleem Vaziri
Absolutely. I had to remind my employer about this at one point. Know your protections!
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Felicity Bud
Sedgwick can be a pain to deal with. Make sure you keep calling them for updates. Don't just sit back and wait or you might get lost in the system.
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Max Reyes
This 👆 Sedgwick ghosted me for weeks until I started calling every day. Stay on top of them!
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Taylor To
AuthorUgh, that sounds frustrating. I'll definitely make sure to follow up regularly. Thanks for the heads up!
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Mikayla Davison
Good call. I've added a daily reminder to my calendar to check in with Sedgwick. Better safe than sorry!
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Angel Campbell
I went through this exact same process about 6 months ago - first time with both Sedgwick and EDD for stress leave. Here's what I wish I had known: **Timeline expectations:** That "3 days" they mentioned is just for initial processing. The full approval can take 2-3 weeks, especially if they need additional documentation. **Stay organized:** Keep copies of EVERYTHING. I created a simple folder system with dates and it saved me when Sedgwick asked for documents I'd already sent. **Be prepared for follow-up requests:** They'll likely ask for more medical documentation or clarification from your doctor. Don't panic - it's normal. **EDD coordination:** Once Sedgwick approves, you'll need to file separately with EDD for the actual disability payments. They don't automatically communicate with each other. **Your doctor is key:** Make sure they understand you need detailed documentation about how work stress is affecting your ability to perform job duties. Generic notes won't cut it. Feel free to reach out if you have specific questions as you go through the process. The waiting is stressful, but you're taking the right steps to take care of your health! 💪
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