How to submit documentation for EDD SDI claim electronically? (DL, paystubs, ID verification)
I'm 5 weeks into my SDI claim for back surgery recovery and just received a notice saying I need to submit identity verification documents within 10 days or my benefits will stop! Problem is I'm on strict bed rest orders from my surgeon and can't physically go to an EDD office. The notice mentions submitting my driver's license, social security card, W2 and recent paystub - but doesn't provide any email address! The online portal doesn't have any document upload option that I can find either. Does anyone know if there's an official EDD email where I can securely send these documents? My doctor says I absolutely cannot drive for at least 3 more weeks, and I don't have anyone who can take off work to drive me to an office. Getting desperate as I've already had one payment delayed!
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Jamal Carter
just mail them?? theres a PO box on the notice they sent u
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Zoe Alexopoulos
•I'm worried about mailing my original social security card and ID - the notice specifically says they need to see original documents, not copies. And with mail theft in my area, I really don't want to risk it. Was hoping for a secure electronic option.
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Mei Liu
Unfortunately, EDD doesn't have a direct email for submitting these types of documents. They prefer in-person verification for security reasons. However, you do have some options: 1. You can mail copies (not originals) of your documents to the PO Box listed on your notice. Make sure to include your claim ID number on everything. 2. You can ask someone you trust to act as your authorized representative. They'll need to complete a DE 1304 form and can then submit documents on your behalf. 3. You can request a reasonable accommodation due to your medical condition. Call the SDI office directly and explain your situation - they can sometimes make exceptions for people who physically cannot come to an office due to their disability.
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Zoe Alexopoulos
•Thank you for these options! The notice specifically says "original documents required" which is why I was confused. I'll definitely call about the reasonable accommodation option. Really appreciate the detailed help!
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Liam O'Donnell
When I had this problem last year I just had my mom take my documents in for me. She didn't need any special form, just showed them my claim number and explained I was bedridden after surgery. They scanned everything and gave them right back to her. Maybe someone can do that for you?
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Mei Liu
•That's actually not the official process - you were lucky! Technically, EDD requires a DE 1304 form (Appointment of Representative) to allow someone else to handle your claim matters. Without it, it's up to the individual EDD representative whether they'll accept documents from someone else. Better to do it the official way to avoid problems.
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Amara Nwosu
I WENT THROUGH THIS EXACT SAME THING!!!! The whole system is set up to FAIL people who are actually disabled. How are people who can't walk/drive supposed to go to an in-person office??? I called the number on the notice like 35 times before getting through and they still made me come in eventually. They do NOT care about your doctor's orders at all.
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AstroExplorer
•this is why I used Claimyr when I had to reach EDD about missing documents on my claim. Spent days trying to call myself with no luck, but their system got me through to an agent in like 15 minutes. they have a video on their site showing how it works: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ?si=1hcSq3KFtCr4oAmd - worth checking out at claimyr.com if you're in a hurry to resolve this before the 10-day deadline
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Giovanni Moretti
There's a specific accommodation process for people who can't physically visit an office due to medical reasons. I handle SDI claims regularly, and here's what you should do: 1. Call the SDI office at 1-800-480-3287 2. Immediately ask for an accommodation under ADA for your disability 3. Explain you have medical documentation (bedrest orders) preventing office visits 4. Request a secure email link for document submission OR a home visit by a representative They have protocols for this situation, though not every phone agent knows them. If you get resistance, politely ask to speak with a supervisor and mention "reasonable accommodation" specifically. They're legally required to provide alternatives. Make sure to call ASAP though, as getting this set up can take a few days.
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Zoe Alexopoulos
•This is EXACTLY what I needed to know! I didn't realize I could ask for accommodation under ADA. I'll call first thing tomorrow morning using those exact words. Thank you so much for the detailed instructions.
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Fatima Al-Farsi
Has anyone actually gotten the secure email link option mentioned above? I'm curious because when my husband was on SDI last year with a similar issue, we ended up having to fax the documents when they wouldn't accept mailed copies. It was such a hassle finding a place that still does fax services in 2025!
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Giovanni Moretti
•Yes, the secure email option exists, but it's not widely advertised. It's primarily reserved for ADA accommodations or special circumstances. The system generates a one-time secure upload link that expires after 48 hours. Not all representatives know about it though - you often need to speak with a supervisor or disability accommodation specialist.
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Zoe Alexopoulos
UPDATE: I wanted to let everyone know what worked! I called the SDI number this morning (used Claimyr to get through quickly after struggling for an hour on my own). Specifically asked for ADA accommodation as suggested here. The first rep didn't know what I was talking about, but when I got transferred to a supervisor, they immediately knew the process. They're sending me a secure upload link via email! Should arrive within 24-48 hours. The supervisor confirmed they need COPIES not originals (despite what my notice said). Thank you everyone for your help - especially the tip about specifically mentioning ADA requirements!
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