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Mei Wong

SDI benefits dropped from $3,888 to $888/month - can't afford surgery now. Help!

I'm in a tough spot with SDI and could use some advice. My benefits are way too low to survive on - only $888 a month when I used to get $3,888. I need surgery but can't afford it now. The SDI rep told me they only used 3 weeks of my work history due to some quarter system. They suggested stopping my claim and reapplying after January for more money. Now I'm stuck looking for work while I can barely walk. On top of that, there's confusion about forms I need to submit. Anyone dealt with something similar or have tips for increasing SDI benefits?

Tom Maxon

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I found a way to solve low SDI benefits calculation, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2FAY85uNsM

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Ugh, the SDI system is such a mess. I've been through something similar and it's so frustrating. Have you tried reaching out to your state representative? Sometimes they can help cut through the red tape.

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Mei Wong

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That's a good idea, I hadn't thought of that. Do you know how I'd go about contacting my rep?

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Just google '[your county] state representative' and you should find their contact info. Usually they have a form on their website for constituents to request help. Good luck!

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Amara Okafor

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I tried this once and got nowhere šŸ™„ ymmv i guess

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The quarter system is so confusing. Basically, they look at your earnings in a specific 3-month period before your claim. If you didn't work much in that quarter, your benefits can be super low. It sucks but that's how they calculate it.

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Mei Wong

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Thanks for explaining. Do you know if there's any way to get them to consider a different quarter?

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Unfortunately, not really. The quarters are fixed. That's why they suggested reapplying later - it would use a different base period. But obvs that doesn't help you now šŸ˜•

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I found a way to actually get someone on the phone at SDI! 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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StarStrider

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Sounds too good to be true. Has anyone else tried this?

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I'm skeptical. How do we know this isn't just spam?

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I get the skepticism, but I promise it's legit. I was desperate and took a chance. Saved me hours of hold time. Just sharing what worked for me šŸ¤·ā€ā™‚ļø

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Sofia Torres

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Have you considered applying for SSDI instead? It might be a better option if your condition is long-term. The process is a pain, but the benefits can be higher.

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This whole situation is so messed up. You shouldn't have to choose between surgery and paying bills. The system is broken af 😔

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Ava Martinez

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Preach! šŸ™Œ We need major reform in how we handle disability benefits

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Miguel Ramos

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I've been dealing with SDI for over a year now, and here's what I've learned: • Always keep copies of EVERYTHING you send them • Follow up regularly on the status of your claim • If possible, submit forms electronically - it's faster • Don't be afraid to appeal decisions • Join support groups or forums for more specific advice • Consider hiring an advocate if things get really complicated It's a frustrating process, but hang in there. Don't let them wear you down. Remember, you're entitled to these benefits. Keep fighting for what you deserve.

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Mei Wong

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Thank you so much for this detailed advice. It's really helpful to hear from someone who's been through it. I'll definitely start keeping better records.

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This is gold šŸ’Æ Saving this comment for future reference!

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Zainab Omar

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have u tried talking to ur doctor about fillin out the forms ASAP? maybe they can squeeze u in b4 ur appointment if u explain the urgency

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Mei Wong

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I'll give that a shot. Hopefully they can fit me in sooner. Thanks for the suggestion!

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Oof, sounds like you're really in the weeds with this one. SDI can be a real clown show sometimes 🤔 Hang in there, OP!

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Yara Sayegh

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Not sure if this helps, but there are some non-profits that offer financial assistance for people waiting on disability benefits. Might be worth looking into to bridge the gap.

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Mei Wong

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I didn't know about that. Do you know any specific organizations I could check out?

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Yara Sayegh

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Try searching for 'disability bridge grants' in your area. Also, some condition-specific orgs (like cancer societies) offer help too. Good luck!

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