Can't get through to EDD - 'max callers reached' error when trying to file SDI claim

I had the same nightmare last month with my SDI claim. The error online is probably because there's something in your work history or medical info that the automated system can't process. Those always require talking to an actual person. What worked for me was calling exactly at 8:01am (not 8:00 - everyone calls then) and using the option for general questions rather than disability specific. Once I got a regular EDD rep, I explained my situation and they transferred me to the right department. Still had to wait about 40 minutes but at least I got in the queue!

OMG the EDD phone system is THE WORST!!!! i spent 2 whole weeks trying to get through for my regular UI claim last yr. kept getting that same message. so frustrating!!!!!

A few things to try: 1. Thursday and Friday tend to have lower call volumes than Monday-Wednesday 2. Try calling between 1:15-2:30pm - many agents return from lunch and the system often opens up briefly 3. The SDI department has a separate line from regular unemployment. Make sure you're calling 1-800-480-3287 specifically for disability claims 4. For the online error, try using a different browser or clearing your cookies/cache. Sometimes the EDD website has compatibility issues with certain browsers. 5. If your disability is expected to last more than 8 days, consider having your doctor submit the initial medical certification by mail while you continue trying to complete your part by phone.

Look into using Claimyr if you're still struggling after trying those tips. It basically calls EDD for you and then connects you when it gets through. It saved me hours of frustration with my claim. Their website is claimyr.com and they have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km It's the only thing that worked for me after two weeks of trying everything else. Got connected to an EDD rep in about 25 minutes instead of endless busy signals.

The EDD calling system is broken by design. They don't have enough staff to handle the call volume but won't admit it. I've been dealing with them for years and it NEVER gets better regardless of what politicians promise.

Quick question - what exact error code are you getting online? Some of them have simple fixes. For example, Error E2416 usually means your identity verification needs to be completed first through ID.me before you can file SDI.

I was in your exact situation last month trying to file an SDI claim for my back injury. After trying for days to call, i finally got through using the Claimyr service someone else mentioned. took about 30 mins but finally talked to someone who fixed my claim issue on the spot. the problem was that i had wages reported in two different quarters that were conflicting so the system couldn't auto-process my claim. needed a human to override it.

when i was calling edd i would put my phone on speaker and just keep redialing while doing other stuff. took like 200+ calls one day but finally got through around 3pm randomly

One more suggestion - if you can't get through by phone after trying the methods suggested here, you can request assistance through your state assembly member's office. They have dedicated EDD liaisons who can sometimes help resolve issues when regular channels aren't working. Just Google "[your county] state assembly member" to find yours.

Did you manage to get through yet? Just checking back because I know how stressful these disability claim issues can be when you're unable to work.