EDD SDI to UI transition denied - stuck in limbo after doctor released me

The EXACT same thing happened to me last year!! The system is completely broken. My disability ended, doctor released me, but then construction was slow so I applied for UI. Got the disqualification notice with zero explanation. Took me FIVE WEEKS of calling to finally get someone who explained that because there was a 11-day gap between my disability ending and UI application, they flagged it as "voluntary quit" even though I was MEDICALLY UNABLE TO WORK! It's complete B.S.!!

check ur disqualification letter...should say reason. probably need 2 appeal it + explain the gap. u only have 30 days 2 appeal from notice date fyi

This is actually a common issue with SDI to UI transitions. There are specific rules about timelines when moving between benefit types. Here's what likely happened: 1. When your doctor released you on January 29, there was a gap from when your SDI benefits technically ended (January 17 according to the state doctor) 2. This gap triggered a "voluntary unemployment" flag in the system 3. Section 1256 disqualifications are typically for voluntarily leaving work without good cause You need to file an appeal explaining that the gap was due to medical certification issues, not your unwillingness to work. Include documentation showing: - Your doctor's release paperwork - The state doctor's certification dates - Any communication about your disability claim ending The good news is these appeals are often successful when properly documented. The appeal form should have come with your disqualification notice.

Appeal hearings are currently taking about 4-6 weeks to schedule. After the hearing, you'll usually get a decision within 7-10 days. Make sure you're continuing to certify for UI benefits each week while waiting for the appeal - if you win, they'll pay those weeks retroactively. Also, request a copy of your claim file through an EDD Information Request. This will show you exactly what information they're using to make decisions about your claim, which helps prepare for the appeal hearing.

OMG this happened to my husband too! Gap between disability and unemployment. Such a nightmare. Hope you get it fixed soon!

Have you tried using Claimyr to reach an EDD agent? After days of failed calls, I used their service and got connected to a live agent in about 20 minutes. They help you skip the EDD phone queue. Website is claimyr.com and they have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ?si=1hcSq3KFtCr4oAmd I was in a similar situation - needed to explain the gap between my disability claim ending and UI application. The agent I spoke with was able to add notes to my file that helped during my appeal.

I've dealt with this exact situation as an employment counselor. The issue is that EDD's different departments (SDI and UI) don't communicate properly with each other. When you transition from disability to unemployment, you need to be very careful about the dates. Here's what you should do: 1. File your appeal immediately, explaining the medical nature of the gap 2. Contact your local state assembly member's office - they have EDD liaisons who can often resolve these issues faster than the normal channels 3. Continue certifying for UI even while disqualified 4. Keep documented evidence of your job search efforts Many people don't realize that assembly members' offices can cut through EDD red tape quickly. In my experience, this has resolved similar issues within 1-2 weeks versus months through normal channels.

You've received some great advice here already. I just wanted to add one clarification about Section 1256 disqualifications. This section covers several issues, but the most common are: - Voluntarily quitting without good cause - Misconduct at your last job - Refusing suitable work - Not being able and available for work Based on your timeline, EDD is likely considering the gap between the state doctor's clearance (Jan 17) and your application for UI as a period where you voluntarily remained unemployed without good cause. When appealing, focus specifically on explaining why this wasn't voluntary - you were following the proper medical release procedures and applied for UI as soon as medically cleared. Include a clear timeline with documentation. Administrative Law Judges who hear these appeals are generally reasonable when presented with clear evidence. Good luck with your appeal!