Will my job be protected after FMLA runs out during EDD SDI medical leave?

This is a tricky situation that many people face when disability extends beyond FMLA. The short answer is that in California, you might have additional job protection under CFRA (California Family Rights Act) which can provide an additional 12 weeks of protected leave in some cases. Also, check if your employer has a disability leave policy that extends beyond FMLA. Some employers offer accommodation leaves as part of their disability policies. You should request this accommodation in writing ASAP.

I went thru something similar last year and learned the hard way that EDD SDI benefits dont guarantee job protection. After my FMLA ran out, I had to apply for ADA accommodations which included extended leave. My company's HR actually helped me with the paperwork. You should contact your HR department IMMEDIATELY to see what options you have. Don't wait until October!

Not a lawyer but Im almost positive CFRA runs at the same time as FMLA not after it ends. At least that was true in my case. But you should still talk to HR about accomodations under ADA like the other person said.

One thing nobody has mentioned yet is that you should document EVERYTHING. Every conversation with your doctor, every communication with HR, keep copies of all medical certifications and extension paperwork. If your employer does try to terminate you, having this documentation will be crucial if you need to fight it. Also, request any accommodations or extended leave in writing and keep copies. As for your disability benefits, those will continue as long as your doctor certifies your condition, regardless of your employment status.

Try calling EDD directly to ask about your specific situation and rights. I needed to talk to them about something similar and it took me DAYS to get through. I finally used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to an EDD agent in about 15 minutes instead of spending hours redialing. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ?si=1hcSq3KFtCr4oAmd. The EDD agent was actually really helpful in explaining how my disability benefits would continue even after job protection ended.

my company gave me a hard time when my leave went past FMLA too but i think they were just trying to scare me. if ur doctor says u cant work then u cant work!!! they need to follow the drs orders. ur health comes first anyway dont let them pressure u into coming back before ur ready!!

One additional note: Make sure you're keeping up with your disability certification paperwork. Your doctor needs to continue submitting updated medical certifications to EDD SDI on time for your disability benefits to continue uninterrupted. This is completely separate from any job protection issues, but equally important for your financial security during this time.

Please update us after you talk to HR! Your situation is common and knowing how your company handles it could help others. Just remember that HR works for the company, not for you, so while they may be helpful, also consider consulting with an employment attorney who specializes in disability issues if you can afford a consultation. Many offer free initial consultations.