I work as an employment counselor, and one thing many people don't realize is that SDI extension requests have very specific timing requirements. If you're within 7 days of your claim expiring, you actually qualify for expedited processing. When you do reach an agent (using any of the methods suggested here), be sure to specifically mention "I need expedited processing for my SDI extension as my claim expires in less than 7 days." This specific phrasing flags your account in their system. Also important to note: even if your payments temporarily stop while this gets sorted out, they will be backdated once the extension is approved, so you won't lose any benefits you're entitled to. It might cause short-term cash flow issues, but you will eventually receive all payments.

my frend said if u call and press 0 over and over it gets u 2 a person faster but idk if thats true lol

Wait I'm confused about something - are you appealing an overpayment determination or a disqualification? Because those are handled differently. If it's an overpayment determination and you missed the interview, that's one thing. But if it's a disqualification and you missed the eligibility interview, that's totally different and they might be more willing to reschedule. The EDD systems are SO CONFUSING and they do this on purpose!

I had a problem with my certification and couldn't get through to anyone at EDD for weeks. My son told me to contact my assemblyman and they fixed everything in like 4 days! I was shocked how fast it was. The nice lady from their office even called me personally to tell me it was resolved. I think her name was Jennifer. Wish I had known about this years ago.

my cousin had this same problem he just went to the library and used the computer there to login and update his phone number then he could use any phone after that

Just checking back - was your son able to update his phone number and complete his certification? If he's having trouble accessing his account to make the update, he should try these steps: 1. Use a computer at a library or friend's house 2. Select "Forgot Password" if needed 3. Verify identity using his email if he has that as a backup 4. Update phone number in Contact Information 5. Log out and then log back in using the updated phone number Remember that while phone devices can change freely, the actual contact phone number must be updated if he has two-factor authentication enabled and needs to receive verification codes.

ur actually super lucky!! most ppl have to fight with edd to get anything but ur boss did all the work 4 u! congrats on the higher benefit amount too!!

wait is this a thing employers can just do?? i got laid off 3 weeks ago and have been struggling with the application. why didnt my boss do this for me?? unfair!

I want to add one more technical detail that might help when you do get through: Ask the representative to process a "UI Reapplication" for you rather than just reopening your claim. Sometimes they'll try to just reactivate your old claim (which won't work in your situation since the benefit year has ended). Also, make sure you have your employment information for the last 18 months ready when you call - they'll need employer names, addresses, dates of employment and wages. Having this information organized will make the call go much faster once you get through.

just wanted to chime in - i solved this by using the "ask EDD" feature on the website instead of calling. took 4 days to get a response but then they fixed it on their end and emailed me saying i could file a new claim online. might be worth trying that route too while ur trying to get thru on phone