How long does EDD SDI take to process mailed-in claims vs. online filing?

oof mailed claims take FOREVER!! my friend did that last summer and it took like 6 weeks before she saw anything. online is way faster, maybe 2 weeks. you should probly just do the online one now

Paper SDI claims typically take 4-5 weeks for processing compared to 1-2 weeks for online claims. The delay is due to manual data entry and mail processing time. I wouldn't recommend filing another claim online as it could trigger a fraud alert in their system. Instead, wait until the 10-day mark after mailing, then try to contact EDD to confirm they received your application. Your doctor's certification being submitted electronically is good news - that part is ready once your claim is entered into the system.

The system is BROKEN! They intentionally delay paper claims to discourage people from using them. I sent a paper claim in January and didn't hear ANYTHING for 7 weeks! When I finally got through to someone, they claimed they never received it so I had to start the whole process over. Then they backdate it but make you wait even longer for payments. It's all designed to make people give up.

I had to call EDD when I mailed in my claim last year and was getting worried after 2 weeks of silence. The problem is actually getting through to someone - I tried for days before giving up. Finally used Claimyr (claimyr.com) which got me connected to an EDD representative in about 20 minutes. They were able to confirm they had my claim and gave me an estimate for processing. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ?si=1hcSq3KFtCr4oAmd It was definitely worth it to get peace of mind and an actual update. Sometimes they can even expedite it if you explain your situation.

My husband n me both filed for disability last yr, he did online and got approved in 10 days, i did paper form bc i dont trust computers w/ my info and it took 5 weeks!!!! its crazy the difference! they say its the "same" on there website but thats A LIE. if u can do online ALWAYS do online!!!!!

One important thing to know: you can check if your mailed claim has been entered into the system by trying to register for SDI Online with your SSN. If you get an error saying you don't have an existing claim, they haven't processed your paperwork yet. If it lets you create an account, that means your claim is in the system! Also, once your claim is established, you can switch to online certification for faster payments going forward, even if you started with a paper application.

btw sometimes they dont even text u when they get it! the texts r super unreliable. my mom never got one but then suddenly got a letter in the mail 3 weeks later saying she was approved. the whole system is weird

My sister works for the state (not EDD) and she says they're still catching up on paperwork from the pandemic! Unbelievable right? But it definitely explains why paper applications take so long. When I did my maternity disability last year, online took 9 days to process vs my coworker who mailed hers and waited almost 6 weeks. If you're really worried about bills, you might want to look into if your employer offers any advance options while waiting for disability?

Final piece of advice: make sure you're prepared when you call EDD. Have your claim information, SSN, and detailed questions ready. The representatives are often rushed and may not volunteer information unless you specifically ask. Questions to ask: 1) Has my claim been received? 2) When was/will it be entered into the system? 3) Are there any issues or missing information they need from me? 4) What's the expected timeline for approval? 5) Can they see that my doctor submitted the medical certification? Good luck, and I hope your claim gets processed soon!