Just wanted to add my recent experience for anyone else going through this! I submitted my SDI application 3 weeks ago at 36 weeks pregnant and just got my approval notice yesterday. A few things that helped me: 1. I used certified mail to send my application so I had tracking confirmation it was received 2. Created my SDI Online account immediately after mailing so I could monitor status 3. Made sure my doctor used black ink and printed clearly - apparently handwriting issues can cause delays 4. Double-checked that my doctor included ALL required dates (last day worked, expected delivery date, etc.) My first payment should arrive next week according to the notice. The whole process was actually smoother than I expected after reading so many horror stories online! Just be thorough with the paperwork and don't overthink it. Good luck to everyone navigating this system!

I just went through this process myself a few months ago and wanted to share some additional tips that helped me! One thing I don't see mentioned yet - make sure to keep copies of EVERYTHING you send to EDD. I had to resubmit my doctor's certification because they claimed they never received it (even though I had tracking showing it was delivered). Having copies saved me from having to go back to my OB's office. Also, if you're planning to take the full 4 weeks before your due date, make sure your doctor is aware of this timeline. Some doctors automatically put 2 weeks before delivery if you don't specifically discuss it with them. The 4 weeks before is your right under California law, but your doctor needs to certify that you're unable to work due to your pregnancy. One last thing - start thinking about your PFL application now too. You can apply for Paid Family Leave to bond with your baby after your SDI benefits end, but it's a separate application process. Getting familiar with both programs now will save you stress later when you're dealing with a newborn! The system definitely has its frustrations, but if you follow everyone's advice here about keeping it simple and making sure the forms are filled out correctly, it should go smoothly. Congratulations on your upcoming arrival!

Pro tip for everyone struggling with the EDD website - if you're on mobile, try switching to desktop view or using a computer instead. The mobile version of UI Online is even more confusing and sometimes doesn't display all the information correctly. I couldn't find my claim balance on my phone for the longest time, but it showed up fine when I logged in from my laptop. The desktop version is still terrible, but at least it's consistently terrible lol.

Another thing to keep in mind - if you're getting close to exhausting your regular UI benefits, you might want to look into whether you qualify for extended benefits or other programs. I learned this the hard way when my claim balance hit zero and I had no idea there were other options available. The EDD website doesn't really make it clear what happens next, so it's worth researching early rather than waiting until you're down to your last few weeks of benefits.

Hey, I found a way to actually 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. Here's the link: https://claimyr.com

I went through the exact same situation a few months ago! Here's what worked for me: Call EDD at 8am sharp when they open - set multiple alarms and be ready to dial. When you get through, ask to speak with a "claims specialist" specifically about canceling your UI claim for a disability filing. They have a specific process for this. Make sure to mention that you filed disability within a week of your UI claim - this shows you weren't trying to double-dip. Get the rep's name and a reference number for the cancellation. Also, send a follow-up email through your EDD account summarizing the call. The whole thing took about 2 weeks to fully process for me. Hang in there! 💪

I'm having the EXACT same problem right now! Been trying to get into the Money Network app for the past day and a half with no luck on the verification codes. It's so stressful when you just need to check if your payment went through. Reading through all these responses has given me hope though - I had no idea about some of these workarounds! Definitely going to try the website version instead of the app, and I'm going to check my spam folder right now. The tip about calling early in the morning is smart too, I've been trying to call during the day when everyone else probably is too. Really appreciate everyone sharing what worked for them. It's frustrating that we have to jump through all these hoops just to access our own money, but at least we can help each other figure it out. Going to try a few of these suggestions and hopefully get back in soon!

I'm dealing with this same verification code issue right now and it's so frustrating! I've been locked out for almost 24 hours trying to check if my weekly payment posted. Reading through everyone's suggestions here is really helpful - I had no idea about trying the website instead of the mobile app or checking spam folders for the email codes. One thing I wanted to add that might help others - I just discovered you can also text "BAL" to 22622 from the phone number associated with your Money Network account to get your current balance sent back as a text message. It's not as detailed as logging into the app, but at least it lets you quickly verify if your payment went through while you're troubleshooting the login issues. Going to try the website version and calling early tomorrow morning like others suggested. Thanks everyone for sharing what worked for you - this community is a lifesaver when dealing with these technical problems!

This whole thread has been so reassuring to read! I'm about 2 months into my EDD claim and I've been religiously certifying every Saturday morning at like 8 AM because I was convinced that earlier = faster payment processing. Reading everyone's experiences here makes me realize I've been creating unnecessary stress for myself. The fact that Leo got his payment right on schedule after certifying Sunday morning is exactly the proof I needed that the timing really doesn't matter within that weekend window. It's honestly a relief to know I can be more flexible - sometimes Saturday mornings are hectic with family stuff and it would be nice to not have that pressure. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences, especially the newcomers who admitted to the same overthinking I've been doing!

This is such a valuable thread for new EDD users! I just filed my claim about a month ago and have been super anxious about certification timing. I actually bookmarked this discussion because seeing Leo's real experience - forgetting to certify on Saturday, doing it Sunday morning, and still getting paid on schedule - is exactly the kind of reassurance I needed. The community knowledge here is incredible. I've been treating Saturday certification like a life-or-death deadline, but clearly EDD designed the system with more flexibility than I realized. Really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences and helping newcomers like me understand how things actually work versus how we imagine they work!