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How to extend SDI claim for pregnancy disability? Process and advice needed for CA EDD

Has anyone else had to extend their SDI claim for pregnancy disability? I need to request an extension because my doctor gave me additional leave. I have the medical documentation ready, but I'm not sure about the process. Any advice on what to say when I call? I'm a bit nervous about making the request.

Mason Stone

Has anyone tried faxing in the extension request? I heard that can be faster sometimes.

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Makayla Shoemaker

Faxing? What year is it, 1995? 🤣

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Mason Stone

Lol I know it sounds old school, but sometimes the old ways work best with government stuff 🤷‍♂️

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Christian Bierman

I’ve actually heard of some places processing faxes more quickly because less people use them now. Could be worth a try!

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Wesley Hallow

I've been through this before. It's actually pretty straightforward. Just call the SDI office, tell them you need an extension due to your doctor's recommendation, and have your documentation ready. They'll guide you through the rest.

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Justin Chang

Good to know it's straightforward. Sometimes just hearing that from someone else helps ease the nerves!

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Dylan Baskin

Here's a script you can use when you call: "Hello, I need to request an extension on my SDI claim. My doctor has provided additional leave for pregnancy disability, and I have the medical documentation ready. Can you please guide me through the process?" Hope this helps!

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Kennedy Morrison

Thank you so much! This is exactly what I needed. I'll definitely use this when I call.

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Lauren Wood

Great script! I'd add "Can you confirm what additional forms or information I might need to provide?" Just to cover all bases.

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Ellie Lopez

Having a script makes it so much easier to stay focused during the call. Thanks for sharing!

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Emma Olsen

Make sure you keep a record of when you call and who you talk to. I've had them lose my info before and having notes really helped me follow up.

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Lucas Lindsey

Keeping records is such a lifesaver. It’s easier to follow up if you have a detailed history of your communications.

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Kylo Ren

I found a method to get someone on the phone. 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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Nina Fitzgerald

Wow, that sounds too good to be true. Does it really work?

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Kylo Ren

Yep, it really does! Saved me hours of hold time. Totally worth the $20 imo.

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Jason Brewer

$20 just to make a phone call? That's ridiculous. The system is so broken 🤦‍♀️

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Kylo Ren

I get it, but when you've been trying to get through for weeks, $20 starts to look pretty good lol

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Kiara Fisherman

I can see both sides. It’s a shame the system necessitates such tools, but it’s a clever workaround if you’re desperate.

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Grace Thomas

Ugh, dealing with SDI can be such a pain. I had to extend my claim last year and it took forever. Good luck!

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Kennedy Morrison

Really? How long did it take for you? I'm worried about running out of time 😰

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Grace Thomas

It took like 3 weeks for me. But don't stress too much, just keep calling and checking your online account. You'll get there!

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Hunter Brighton

3 weeks sounds like a long time, but maybe it’s improved since you applied. Hopefully, things are faster now!

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Sophie Duck

I'm in the same boat! Currently 36 weeks and just got put on bed rest. Following this thread for advice 👀

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Austin Leonard

Hope everything goes smoothly for you! Keep us updated on how it goes.

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Micah Franklin

One thing I would recommend if you're considering external help like Claimyr, is to weigh the cost benefits. While it's handy to skip the queue, remember it's an extra cost and sometimes persistence does pay off without it. For some though, the time saved is invaluable, so it really depends on your situation.

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Ella Harper

Totally agree, sometimes spending a little extra can save a lot of hassle. But it's not for everyone, especially if you're already pinching pennies.

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Chad Winthrope

Make sure you have your claim number handy when you call. They always ask for that first and it speeds things up.

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Paige Cantoni

Yes! It’s so frustrating to be on hold for ages and then realize you don’t have the info right in front of you.

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Liam Cortez

Just a heads up, the wait times have been crazy lately. I called last week and was on hold for over 2 hours before I got through. Might want to set aside a whole morning or afternoon for this.

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Savannah Vin

Thanks for the heads up! I'll make sure I’m prepared with snacks and something to do while I wait.

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Logan Chiang

Okay, let me break this down for you step-by-step: 1. Gather all your documentation: This includes your doctor's note, your current claim information, and any other relevant medical records. 2. Prepare your information: Write down your claim number, social security number, and the dates of your extended leave. 3. Call the SDI office: The number should be on your original claim documents. As others have mentioned, try calling early in the morning for shorter wait times. 4. When you get through, clearly state your need: Use a script like the one provided earlier in this thread. 5. Ask about the process: Confirm what additional forms you might need to fill out. Sometimes they'll send you a form to have your doctor complete. 6. Get a confirmation: Ask for a reference number for your call and the name of the representative you spoke with. 7. Follow up: If you don't hear back within a week, call again to check on the status of your extension request. 8. Check your online account: Often, updates will appear there before you receive anything in the mail. Remember, this is your right as an employee who has paid into the system. Don't be nervous about asking for what you need. If you run into any issues, don't hesitate to ask to speak with a supervisor. Good luck, and congrats on your pregnancy! 💖👶

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Kennedy Morrison

Thank you so much for this detailed breakdown! It makes the whole process seem much less daunting. I really appreciate you taking the time to write all this out.

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Isla Fischer

This is gold! Mods should pin this comment 💯

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Miles Hammonds

Great advice! I'd add: if you can, try to do as much as possible through the online portal. Sometimes it's faster than calling.

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Ruby Blake

Such comprehensive advice! You made the process easy to understand, and that’s no small feat.

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Anita George

Pro tip: call right when they open in the morning. The wait times are usually shorter then.

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Abigail Spencer

Thanks for this tip! I’ll definitely try calling first thing.

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