Non-CA resident needing alternate base period for pregnancy SDI - totally confused!

Yes, you can absolutely request an alternate base period for pregnancy SDI! I went through this last year (though I'm in CA). Here's what worked: When you submit your paper application, write 'REQUESTING ALTERNATE BASE PERIOD' in big letters at the top of the first page. Also include a brief letter explaining why you need the alternate period calculation, detailing which quarters would qualify you. Include copies (not originals) of any pay stubs from those quarters if you have them. The important thing is to make your request for alternate base period super clear from the beginning. Don't wait for them to calculate your standard base period first or you'll end up in appeals limbo.

The alternate base period is definitely available for pregnancy claims, but it's trickier for out-of-state workers. You need to submit Form DE 2588 ABP (Request for Alternate Base Period) along with your DE 2501 application. If they didn't include this form in your packet, you can download it from the EDD website. Make sure you indicate which quarters you want them to use instead. For pregnancy in 2025, they'll normally look at earnings from Oct 2023-Sept 2024. With alternate base period, they can look at Jan 2024-Dec 2024 instead. Just be aware that processing times are much longer with ABP requests - often 3-4 weeks additional wait.

have you considered just using PFL instead? sometimes its easier to qualify for and you dont need all the medical stuff

Oh man, the out-of-state pregnancy claim with alternate base period is like hitting the EDD difficulty jackpot! I went through something similar last year (though for a regular disability, not pregnancy). What finally worked for me was using Claimyr (claimyr.com) to actually reach a tier 2 specialist at EDD. Regular reps just kept giving me the runaround, but I needed someone who specifically understood out-of-state alternate base period requests. Their service connected me to an actual knowledgeable agent in about 20 minutes when I'd been trying for weeks. They have a video demo of how it works: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ?si=1hcSq3KFtCr4oAmd The specialist I spoke with had me fax a letter specifically requesting alternate base period calculation with my application and explaining my residence situation. She flagged my account with notes so when my claim arrived, it got routed correctly.

I'm in the exact situation right now!!! Pregnancy, out-of-state worker, need alternate base period. It's been ABSOLUTE HELL trying to get this figured out. I finally got someone knowledgeable by calling EXACTLY at 8:00am Pacific time on Wednesday (they seem less busy that day for some reason). The key thing they told me: you MUST write a letter explaining that you're requesting alternate base period AND explain why you're eligible - specifically mentioning that you didn't earn enough in standard base period but would qualify with alternate. Also mention you're eligible as an out-of-state worker because your employer withholds CA SDI. They told me to paper clip this letter to the FRONT of the application. Good luck!!!! The system is seriously broken for anyone with a slightly unusual situation.

you dont qualify for CA disability if you dont live in CA anymore. thats your main problem. they'll deny your claim even with good quarters. my cousin moved to arizona and tried to get disability and they said no way. you have to be a resident.

Here's what will happen: You'll submit your application requesting alternate base period. Then they'll calculate your standard base period anyway and send you a notice of computation showing insufficient wages. THEN you need to immediately appeal that determination and re-request the alternate base period. Keep copies of EVERYTHING and send your papers via certified mail! The EDD system is designed to make this difficult! Also, expect your first payment to take 7-9 weeks minimum with an alternate base period request as an out-of-state worker. They'll backpay from your disability start date, but budget accordingly.

I want to clarify something important about the alternate base period for pregnancy claims. When requesting it, make sure to specify exactly which quarters you want them to use. For example "I am requesting an alternate base period using quarters 1-4 of 2024 instead of the standard base period." Also, if your claim is denied initially, you have 20 days (not 30) to appeal and request reconsideration for the alternate base period. Make sure to clearly state in your appeal that you are eligible under Labor Code Section 2708 and specifically request the alternate base period calculation.

soooo tired of EDD and their outdated systems!!! why is this so complicated?? in my state you just fill out a form online and boom, done. california needs to get it together already!

I'm currently going through this exact process as a Nevada resident working for a CA company! Based on my experience so far, here's what I've learned: 1. You absolutely CAN get alternate base period for pregnancy SDI as an out-of-state worker - don't let anyone tell you otherwise. 2. When you submit your paper application, include a cover letter that clearly states "REQUEST FOR ALTERNATE BASE PERIOD CALCULATION" and specify which quarters you want them to use (like Q1-Q4 2024 instead of the standard period). 3. Make sure to mention in your letter that you're eligible as an out-of-state worker because your CA employer withholds SDI from your paychecks. 4. I found success calling EDD at exactly 8:00 AM Pacific on Tuesdays or Wednesdays - the wait times are shorter and you're more likely to get someone knowledgeable. 5. Keep detailed records of every call, including the rep's name and what they told you. The inconsistent information is unfortunately normal. I'm still waiting for my determination, but the specialist I spoke with assured me that out-of-state alternate base period requests are processed regularly. Don't give up - you've got this! The system is frustrating but it does work eventually.