EDD SDI time limits - what happens after 52 weeks? Return to work or permanent disability only?

yep the 52 week thing is real. its the max benefit period for CA disability. I hit that wall last year after my car accident. once u reach 52 weeks ur SOL with EDD. Doctor has to release you or u gotta apply for SSDI (federal permanent disability). No extensions on SDI unfortunately... system sucks

The 52-week maximum is correct, but there are actually a few options you might want to consider: 1. If you have private disability insurance through your employer or that you purchased yourself, check if it offers long-term disability coverage that kicks in after state benefits end 2. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is an option, but application process takes time so start ASAP if you think you'll need it 3. If your condition is due to a work injury, workers' compensation benefits might be available beyond the SDI period 4. Some employers offer extended leave programs beyond what's legally required I'd recommend contacting the Department of Rehabilitation for resources - they can help with transition planning and vocational rehabilitation if you need to change careers due to your condition.

I know EXACTLY what you're going through!!! I was on SDI for a complicated pregnancy that turned into serious postpartum issues and hit that 52 week wall last February. It was TERRIFYING. My doctor wanted me to stay home longer but EDD was like "sorry not our problem anymore" 🤬 So annoying how they just cut you off with no transition support AT ALL!! Like we're just supposed to magically be better at exactly 52 weeks??

Everyone focusing on SSDI but there's also SSI (Supplemental Security Income) which has different eligibility requirements. Might be worth looking into both. Also - have you talked to your doctor about partial return to work? Sometimes you can get workplace accommodations under ADA that allow you to come back with modified duties/reduced hours, which might be better than completely losing income. I had a friend who got their employer to create a transitional return-to-work plan with gradually increasing hours over 6 months. Might be worth exploring.

One important thing nobody mentioned - apply for SSDI at least 6 months before your SDI runs out if possible. There's often a gap between programs since SSDI has a 5-month waiting period after approval AND can take 3-12+ months to get approved. Also, I've had clients struggling to reach EDD about their disability transitions, and many of them used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) to actually get through to real agents instead of waiting on hold forever. They have a video demo showing how it works: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ?si=1hcSq3KFtCr4oAmd Might be worth checking out if you need specific answers about your claim that the website doesn't provide. You really need to be proactive now rather than waiting until week 50 to figure out your transition plan.

Have you tried contacting any of these resources? - Legal Aid Society (they often have disability rights attorneys) - Disability Rights California - Independent Living Centers in your county - California Department of Rehabilitation All of these places offer free services to help navigate exactly what you're asking about. The Independent Living Centers especially have peer counselors who have been through similar situations.

Forgot to mention... if ur condition is related to mental health at all, there r sometimes county programs that can help with some support services. My cousin got help thru something called "behavioral health" in our county when her SDI ran out for depression/anxiety. Might be worth looking into depending on ur situation

To answer your direct question about applying for SSDI - there's no specific deadline in relation to when your SDI ends, but as others mentioned, you should apply as early as possible due to the lengthy processing time and 5-month waiting period after approval. Also, when you apply for SSDI, be thoroughly prepared with: 1. Complete medical records documenting your condition 2. Your doctor's detailed assessment of your functional limitations 3. Work history for the past 15 years 4. List of all medications and treatments About 65-70% of initial SSDI applications are denied, so be prepared for a potential appeals process. Many people find it helpful to consult with a disability attorney who specializes in SSDI applications.

my sister had this problem two years ago and she found out that in some cases you can actually reapply for a NEW claim under edd sdi after your 52 weeks if you have a different condition!! not sure if that applies to your situation but worth knowing. like she was on for depression originally but then had a completely separate physical issue and qualified for a new claim with new paperwork. good luck!!! this system is super frustrating