SDI application name too long for online form - how to convert paper app to EDD account?
Hey everyone, I'm having trouble with my SDI application. My name is too long for the online form, so I had to fill out a paper application. Now I'm wondering if there's a way to convert this paper application to an online EDD account. Has anyone dealt with this before? Any advice on how to handle it when I call them?
23 comments

Lydia Bailey
I had a similar issue! When I called, I asked if they could manually input my full name into their system to create an online account. It worked for me. Try saying something like: "I need help converting my paper SDI application to an online account because my name exceeds the character limit on the form. Can you manually input my full name into your system?" Good luck!
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Marcus Patterson
AuthorThanks so much! That's really helpful. Did they give you any trouble when you asked?
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Lydia Bailey
Nah, they were pretty cool about it. Just be polite and explain the situation clearly. You got this! 👍
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Mateo Warren
This is why the system is so messed up. Why can't they just make the online form accomodate longer names? 🙄
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Sofia Price
Ugh, the EDD system is such a nightmare. I've been dealing with them for months and it's always something. Good luck with your name issue, hope you get it sorted out!
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Alice Coleman
Have you tried contacting your local assemblymember's office? Sometimes they can help push things through faster with EDD. Worth a shot if you get stuck!
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Marcus Patterson
AuthorI hadn't thought of that! How do I find my assemblymember?
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Alice Coleman
Just google "find my california assemblymember" and you'll get a website where you can enter your address. They usually have a form on their website for contacting them about EDD issues.
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Owen Jenkins
This is solid advice. My assemblymember's office helped me resolve an issue I'd been fighting with for weeks!
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Lilah Brooks
Hey guys, 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. Check out this video for more info: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ
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Jackson Carter
Sounds too good to be true. Has anyone else tried this?
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Kolton Murphy
$20 just to talk to someone? That's ridiculous. The system is so broken 😤
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Lilah Brooks
I know it sounds sketchy, but I swear it worked for me. Saved me hours of frustration. Sometimes you gotta pay to play, ya know? 🤷♂️
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Evelyn Rivera
I've used it too. Expensive, but worth it when you're desperate to get through.
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Julia Hall
Pro tip: If you're having trouble with the online system, try accessing it during off-peak hours. Like really early in the morning or late at night. Sometimes it's less glitchy then.
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Arjun Patel
This! I always do my EDD stuff at like 2 AM and it's so much smoother.
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Jade Lopez
Have you considered legally changing your name to something shorter? Lol jk... unless? 👀
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Marcus Patterson
AuthorHaha, don't tempt me! At this point, I'm considering it 😂
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Tony Brooks
New name, who dis? 🤣
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Ella rollingthunder87
Here's a detailed breakdown of what you can try: 1. Call EDD directly and explain your situation. Use the script provided by another commenter. 2. If that doesn't work, try these steps: - Visit your nearest EDD office in person (bring your paper application) - Contact your local assemblymember's office - File a complaint with the EDD's online complaint system 3. Document everything. Keep a log of all your calls, who you spoke to, and what was said. 4. If all else fails, consider seeking legal advice. There are non-profits that offer free legal aid for EDD issues. Remember, persistence is key. Don't give up! The system is frustrating, but keep pushing until you get results. Good luck!
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Marcus Patterson
AuthorWow, thank you so much for this detailed response! This is incredibly helpful. I'll definitely follow these steps.
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Yara Campbell
This should be pinned to the top of the subreddit. So many people could benefit from this info!
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Ella Cofer
I actually went through something similar last year! The character limit issue is so frustrating. What worked for me was calling the EDD disability line and explaining that I had already submitted a paper application due to the name length issue. The representative was able to locate my paper application in their system and then manually create an online account for me. She basically used my paper application as the foundation and transferred the information over. It took about 20 minutes on the phone, but it was totally worth it to have online access to track my claim status. Make sure you have your paper application confirmation number handy when you call - it makes the process much smoother!
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