idk if this helps but I had a similar issue and it turned out there was a flag on my account for potential identity verification. Might be worth asking about that when you do get through.

Another option that worked for me - if you're having trouble with the online portal, try checking your bank account or debit card for any recent deposits from EDD. Sometimes the payments go through even when the website isn't updated properly. You can also look for any correspondence in your mail - they usually send notices when payments are issued. Hope this helps!

This is absolutely unacceptable! I'm dealing with something similar - submitted my baby bonding claim by mail 6 weeks ago and have heard nothing. What's really frustrating is that EDD doesn't even have a proper tracking system for mailed applications. You send important documents into a black hole and just have to hope for the best. I've started keeping a detailed log of every attempt to contact them because at this point I'm wondering if I'll need to file a complaint with the state. The fact that people are waiting 2+ months for basic communication about claims that should be processed within weeks is ridiculous. Has anyone had success reaching out to the governor's office or filing complaints with other state agencies? This system is failing California families when we need support the most.

I'm so sorry you're going through this! I just went through a similar nightmare with my baby bonding claim. I mailed mine in December and didn't hear anything for 10 weeks. What finally worked for me was creating an online EDD account (if you don't have one) and using the "Ask EDD" feature to send a message asking about my claim status. They actually responded within 3 business days through the online portal, even though they never answered my calls. Turns out my employer had never responded to their verification request, which was holding everything up. Once I contacted my HR department and they submitted the missing info, my claim was processed within a week. I'd definitely try the online message system before giving up - it seems like their digital customer service is way more responsive than phone support right now. Also, make sure to include your SSN and the approximate date you mailed your application when you message them. Good luck!

I went through almost this exact scenario two years ago! I was 30 weeks pregnant when I finally got a job offer after months of searching. Here's what I learned: First, regarding SDI timing - you typically can't get pregnancy disability benefits until 4 weeks before your due date unless there are complications. Since you mentioned potential gestational hypertension, definitely discuss this with your OB as it might qualify you for earlier benefits. Second, about pausing/restarting SDI - as others mentioned, you can't technically "pause" it. If you return to work, your claim ends and you'd file a new one after delivery. BUT here's the key thing no one mentioned: make sure you have enough recent wages to qualify for a new claim. Since you've been unemployed for months, your benefit calculation might be based on older wages. My advice: If you get a job offer, consider negotiating a start date that gives you a few weeks to work before delivery. This accomplishes several things: 1) You establish some recent wages for potential future SDI claims, 2) You build goodwill with the employer, and 3) You get some income flowing again. Also, don't forget about WIC and other assistance programs while you're navigating this - pregnancy qualifies you for additional support that can help bridge financial gaps. The system is frustrating but manageable if you plan ahead. Feel free to ask if you want more details about my experience!

I'm currently going through a very similar situation and wanted to share what I've learned so far! I'm 32 weeks pregnant and was unemployed for about 4 months before landing a position last month. One thing that really helped me was creating a timeline of all my options with dates. I mapped out when I could potentially start SDI (with and without complications), when I'd deliver, and what my benefit eligibility would look like under different scenarios. This helped me make a more informed decision about whether to take a job offer. I ended up taking a position and being upfront with my employer after the offer about my pregnancy timeline. They were actually really understanding and we worked out a plan where I'd work for about 6 weeks, take maternity leave, and then return. Having those recent wages has definitely helped with my benefit calculations. A few practical tips: 1) Start gathering all your employment documentation now (pay stubs, tax forms, etc.) - you'll need this for any benefit applications, 2) If you have any pregnancy complications, document everything with your doctor as it could qualify you for earlier SDI, 3) Consider reaching out to a benefits counselor at EDD or through community organizations - they can sometimes explain your specific situation better than the general website info. The whole system is definitely confusing, but having a clear plan and understanding your options makes it much less stressful. Wishing you the best with whatever path you choose!

Hey @Keisha Johnson, I went through something similar last year. Here's what finally worked for me: 1) Keep detailed records of when you filed and any confirmation numbers, 2) Try the "Contact EDD" form on their website - sometimes that gets faster responses than calling, 3) If you have access to a fax machine, try faxing your inquiry directly to your local office. Also, don't panic if it takes a few weeks - the system is just really backed up right now. You'll get through this! 💪

I had this exact same issue a few months ago and it was so stressful! What ended up working for me was a combination of things: First, I called the tech support line (not the regular claims line) at 1-800-300-5616 - they can sometimes see technical issues that are preventing your claim from showing up online. Also, try logging out completely and clearing your browser cache/cookies, then log back in. Sometimes it's just a website glitch. If it's been more than 10 business days since you filed, definitely start calling the main line early in the morning (like 8:01 AM) or try the callback option if available. Don't give up - I know it's frustrating but your claim is probably in the system, just not displaying properly online. Keep us posted on how it goes!

@f5ca75619235 I can confirm what others said about Claimyr - you only pay after they successfully connect you to EDD. When I used it for my PFL claim a few months ago, the fee was $20 and honestly it was the best money I spent during that whole ordeal. The service connected me within 45 minutes and the EDD rep was able to resolve my issue immediately. Just have all your documents scanned and ready to upload before calling, because you want to take full advantage of that precious time with an actual human! Also keep your confirmation numbers from any uploads - the reps can see those in their system. Six weeks is way too long for a disability claim, especially when you need that income. Really hope Claimyr works for you too!

This entire thread is so eye-opening! I'm dealing with a similar SSN verification request for my PFL claim and was getting nowhere with EDD's phone system. Reading through everyone's experiences, it sounds like the combination of uploading ALL possible documents (SS card, ID, birth certificate, paystub) AND using a service like Claimyr to actually reach a human is the winning strategy. It's absolutely ridiculous that we have to pay third parties to access our own state benefits, but if it works, it works. @d0ee615c27d1 thank you for posting that detailed update - it gives me hope that this nightmare can actually be resolved! Going to gather all my documents and try Claimyr this week.