To actually answer your original question directly - no, there's no way to have them hold payments until a final eligibility determination. The system isn't designed that way. Your options are basically: 1. Continue certifying and receiving payments, but set aside the money until after your interview 2. Stop certifying entirely (not recommended as it could affect your claim) 3. Withdraw your claim completely (definitely not recommended unless you're certain you're ineligible) The first option is what most people do. Just be prepared for the possibility of repayment if found ineligible.

Just wanted to add another perspective here - I went through this exact situation last year and ended up being found eligible after my interview, even though my employer contested it. The key thing that helped me was keeping detailed records of everything. I saved all my UI Online screenshots showing the payments and the "determination pending" messages, plus I documented every conversation I had with EDD representatives. Even though it's stressful waiting with that money sitting there, try to remember that EDD's system is actually designed to help claimants by providing benefits during the investigation period. Most people who get laid off (vs fired for cause) do end up being found eligible. Just make sure you have your story straight and all your documentation ready for when they call. The interview really isn't as bad as it seems!

One more thing to keep in mind - if your severance is paid out as a lump sum rather than regular paychecks, the reporting requirements can be different. If you're receiving a true lump sum payment, you would report it for the week you receive it, not spread across multiple weeks. But if it's being paid as regular paychecks over 4 weeks, then you report it for each week as it comes in. Just make sure you understand which type of severance you're receiving.

Just wanted to add that you should also keep detailed records of all your severance payments - dates, amounts, and any documentation from your employer. This will make the certification process much smoother and help if EDD ever needs to verify your reported income. I learned this the hard way when I couldn't find my pay stubs during a review and it delayed my claim for weeks. Good luck with everything!

UPDATE: I wanted to let everyone know what worked for me in case someone else has this problem in the future. I used the Claimyr service that someone recommended and got through to an actual SDI representative in about 20 minutes! The rep was able to verify my identity using my driver's license, social security number, and address history. She reset my account access and helped me start my disability claim right there on the phone. The weird thing is that my old unemployment account and this new disability claim are somehow separate in their system, even though they both use my SSN. The rep explained that while they're both under EDD, they use different systems. Anyway, my claim is now processing and I should receive my SDI debit card within 7-10 days according to the rep. Thanks to everyone who helped with suggestions!

Wow, this is such a relief to read! I've been dealing with a similar password reset nightmare for weeks now. The fact that UI and SDI use different systems is really good to know - I was getting so frustrated thinking it was all one big mess. @QuantumQuest thanks for sharing your success story and @Fatima Al-Hashemi thanks for explaining the system differences. I'm definitely going to try that Claimyr service since the regular phone lines have been impossible. It's crazy that we have to pay a third-party service just to access our own government benefits, but if it works, it's worth it. Also wanted to add for anyone else reading this - make sure you keep all your medical documentation organized from day one. I learned the hard way that EDD can request additional paperwork at any point in the process, so having everything ready speeds things up a lot.

To all those having trouble reaching a human at California Unemployment. I just ran across this video that gave me a shortcut to reach a human. Hope it helps! https://youtu.be/Ize0EkN4HDI

I'm going through something similar right now. From what I've learned, "pending" status after certifying usually means there's some kind of hold or flag on your account that needs to be reviewed before they can release payment. Since you mentioned you're waiting for an interview, that's likely what's causing the delay - they probably won't process payments until after your interview is completed and any eligibility issues are resolved. The timing can vary a lot depending on how backed up they are with interviews. I'd suggest calling the EDD line to get a more specific timeline for your interview and ask about your pending status. Hang in there!

One more important thing - this isn't a regular judge like in a courtroom, it's an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) who specializes in EDD cases. They're usually pretty understanding and just want to get the facts straight. Just explain your situation clearly, and if you made any mistakes in your application, be upfront about them. It's much better to acknowledge and explain than to have them think you were trying to hide something.

Just wanted to wish you good luck on your interview tomorrow! I went through the same thing about 6 months ago and was terrified, but honestly the judge was really professional and fair. Make sure you answer their questions directly - they usually ask about your last day of work, why you were separated, and whether you were offered any other positions. If you were laid off due to position elimination like you mentioned, that should work in your favor since it's clearly not misconduct on your part. The whole thing was over in about 20 minutes for me. You've got this!