Need EDD SDI help after being denied - looking for disability attorney recommendations in Orange County

Before hiring an attorney, have you tried contacting EDD directly about why your claim was denied? Sometimes there's a simple misunderstanding that can be resolved with a phone call. Make sure to have your claim ID and medical documentation ready when you call. Also check if your doctor used the correct diagnostic codes on your medical certification form - that's a common reason for denials.

I had a similar situation last year with my carpal tunnel disability claim. Got denied even with all the right paperwork. Ended up using Johnson & Associates in Newport Beach - they really know their stuff with EDD appeals. Won my case and got backpay too!

Before going the attorney route, try getting through to an actual EDD representative to understand exactly why your claim was denied. I've had success using Claimyr (claimyr.com) to reach EDD quickly - they connect you with an agent instead of waiting on hold forever. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ?si=1hcSq3KFtCr4oAmd that shows how it works. I was skeptical at first but managed to get someone on the phone in about 20 minutes after trying unsuccessfully for days on my own. For your appeal, make sure you have: 1. Detailed medical records showing objective findings (MRI reports, etc.) 2. A letter from your doctor specifically addressing your work limitations 3. Your treatment history and prognosis 4. Documentation of any medications that affect your ability to work Sometimes just getting clarification on why exactly they denied your claim can help you prepare properly for the appeal.

I beat my EDD denial without a lawyer! But I had to be SUPER organized. Bring every piece of paper related to your condition - test results, doctor notes, medicine list, EVERYTHING. And dress nice for the hearing, it actually helps.

I'm going through something similar right now with my SDI claim for my anxiety/depression. EDD keeps saying they need more documentation but won't tell me what specifically they need?? My therapist has sent in like 3 different forms. The whole system feels designed to make us give up. I also can't get anyone on the phone no matter what time I call. Has anyone from Orange County used Legal Aid Society? I heard they sometimes help with disability cases but I'm not sure about EDD specifically.

If you're still looking for an attorney recommendation, Disability Rights California provides free legal assistance for disability-related issues, including some EDD matters. Their OC office number is 714-XXX-XXXX. Also, the State Bar of California has a referral service where you can find attorneys who specialize in disability benefits cases.

@Johnson & Associates charged me a flat fee of $600 for my case, not a percentage. Worth every penny since I got over $8000 in backpay! But the other commenters have good points about trying free resources first.

For your appeal hearing, key things that help win: 1. Make sure all medical evidence is submitted at least 5 days before hearing 2. Prepare a timeline of your medical treatment 3. If possible, have your doctor attend by phone (they'll rarely come in person) 4. Connect your medical condition directly to your job duties - be specific about what movements/activities cause pain 5. Bring a daily pain/activity journal if you've been keeping one I've helped several friends prepare for SDI appeals, and these approaches significantly improve success rates. The administrative law judges want clear, concrete evidence that connects your medical condition to your inability to work.

Just wanted to say good luck with everything! The EDD system is a nightmare when you're already dealing with health issues. Hope you get the benefits you deserve!