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Need help with SDI registration and PFL application process - any tips?

Hey everyone, I'm trying to register for SDI and apply for PFL. Has anyone gone through this process recently? Any tips or advice would be really appreciated. I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed with all the paperwork and steps involved.

Tom Maxon

I found a way to solve SDI and PFL application confusion, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GpVU27FMKgE

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Danielle Campbell

I just went through this last month! It can definitely be confusing. What specific questions do you have? I might be able to help.

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Caleb Bell

Thanks for offering to help! I'm mainly confused about the timeline. How long did the whole process take for you from start to finish?

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Danielle Campbell

For me, it took about 3 weeks from when I submitted my application to when I got my first payment. But I've heard it can vary a lot depending on your situation.

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Caleb Bell

That's really helpful to know, thanks! Did you have any issues with the online application system?

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Danielle Campbell

The online system was actually pretty smooth for me. Just make sure you have all your documents ready before you start. And double-check everything before submitting!

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Rhett Bowman

Ugh, I feel your pain. I've been trying to get through to someone at SDI for weeks now. It's like they don't want us to actually use the benefits we're entitled to. 🙄

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Abigail Patel

Same here! I've been calling non-stop and can never get through. It's so frustrating!

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Daniel White

Pro tip: try calling right when they open. I finally got through that way after days of trying.

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Nolan Carter

I found a way to actually 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 explaining it: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ

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Natalia Stone

Wow, that sounds too good to be true. Has anyone else tried this?

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Tasia Synder

Idk man, paying to talk to a government agency? Seems sketchy.

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Nolan Carter

I get the skepticism, but it seriously saved me hours of frustration. Worth every penny imo.

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Selena Bautista

How long did you have to wait for the call back?

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Nolan Carter

It took about 2 hours, but I just went about my day and didn't have to actively wait on hold. When they connected me, I was talking to a real person within seconds.

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Mohamed Anderson

Here's a detailed breakdown of the SDI and PFL application process based on my recent experience: 1. Gather all necessary documents: medical certification, employment info, etc. 2. Create an account on the SDI Online portal if you haven't already. 3. Start your application - be prepared to spend about 30-45 minutes on this. 4. For PFL, you'll need to specify your reason (bonding with new child, caring for family member, etc.) 5. Submit your application and note down your claim ID. 6. Wait for EDD to process your claim - this can take 1-2 weeks. 7. If additional info is needed, they'll contact you by mail or through the online portal. 8. Once approved, you'll receive a debit card with your benefits. Tips: - Double-check all info before submitting - Keep an eye on your mail and online account for updates - Don't hesitate to call if you have questions (though getting through can be tough) Hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.

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Caleb Bell

This is incredibly helpful, thank you so much for taking the time to write all this out!

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Ellie Perry

Saving this for later. You're a lifesaver! 🙏

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Landon Morgan

Quick question - do you know if the medical certification has to be on a specific form?

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Mohamed Anderson

Yes, there's a specific form called the 'Physician/Practitioner Certification' that your doctor needs to fill out. You can find it on the EDD website.

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Teresa Boyd

Am I the only one who thinks its ridiculous that we have to jump through so many hoops to access benefits we've paid into? The whole system needs an overhaul.

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Lourdes Fox

Preach! 👏 It's like they're trying to discourage people from using it.

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Bruno Simmons

Totally agree. And don't even get me started on how outdated their tech is. It's 2023, why does everything still require snail mail?

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Aileen Rodriguez

Has anyone had experience applying for both SDI and PFL back-to-back? I'm pregnant and trying to plan ahead.

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Zane Gray

Just a heads up, make sure you're super careful filling out the forms. I made a tiny mistake on mine and it delayed my claim by weeks. Triple check everything!

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Maggie Martinez

Oof, learned that the hard way too. What was your mistake, if you don't mind sharing?

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Zane Gray

I accidentally put the wrong start date for my leave. Off by just one day, but it caused so much hassle to correct.

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Alejandro Castro

lol remember when we thought adulting would be fun? now we're all here trying to figure out government paperwork 😂

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Monique Byrd

Right? I miss the days when my biggest worry was what to wear to school 😭

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Jackie Martinez

Does anyone know if theres a way to check the status of your application online? Or do we just have to wait for snail mail?

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Lia Quinn

You can check the status on the SDI Online portal. Just log in and go to 'Claim Status'.

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Jackie Martinez

Oh awesome, thanks! Cant believe I missed that 🤦‍♂️

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