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Laid off, now self-employed with newborn - Still eligible for SDI or PFL?

Hey everyone, I'm in a bit of a situation and could use some advice. I was laid off a couple years back and have been self-employed since then. Recently, my partner and I welcomed a newborn into our family. I'm wondering if I might still be eligible for SDI or paid family leave, given my employment history. Has anyone been through something similar or know how this works? Any insights would be really appreciated!

Carter Holmes

Congrats on the new baby! 🎉 As for your question, it really depends on a few factors. Have you been paying into the SDI system as a self-employed person? If not, you might not be eligible based on your current status. However, if you paid into the system during your previous employment, there might be a chance. Your best bet is to contact EDD directly and ask about your specific situation.

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Mia Alvarez

Thanks for the congrats and the info! I haven't been paying into SDI as a self-employed person, didn't even know that was an option tbh. I'll def reach out to EDD and see what they say.

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Sophia Long

Just a heads up, getting through to EDD can be a real pain. Prepare yourself for long hold times and possibly getting disconnected. Good luck!

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Mia Alvarez

Ugh, that sounds frustrating. Any tips on the best time to call or how to get through?

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Angelica Smith

I found a way to actually get someone on the phone at EDD. 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 a video explaining it: https://youtu.be/Ize0EkN4HDI

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Logan Greenburg

Sounds too good to be true. Has anyone else tried this?

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Charlotte Jones

20 bucks? That's highway robbery! 🤑 The government should make it easier to reach them without having to pay extra.

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Angelica Smith

I get the skepticism, but it seriously worked for me. After weeks of trying to get through, I was desperate. Yeah, it sucks to pay, but considering the time I saved and stress it relieved, it was worth it for me. 🤷‍♂️

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Lucas Bey

hate to be the bearer of bad news, but if you haven't been paying into SDI as a self-employed person, youre probably SOL. The system is designed to screw over anyone who doesn't fit into their neat little boxes. 🤡

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Harper Thompson

I was in a similar boat last year. Here's what I learned: 1. SDI eligibility is based on your base period, which is 5-18 months before your claim starts. 2. If you haven't contributed to SDI recently, you might not be eligible. 3. However, there's something called PFL (Paid Family Leave) that might still apply to you. 4. PFL can be used to bond with a new child, and it doesn't always require recent contributions. 5. The catch is, PFL is only available if you're eligible for SDI. Your best bet is to apply anyway. Sometimes the rules change, and you might get lucky. Worst case, they say no. Best case, you get some financial help with the new baby. Good luck!

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Mia Alvarez

Wow, thanks for breaking it down like that! I'll definitely look into PFL too. Fingers crossed 🤞

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Caleb Stark

This is great info! Do you know if the base period is different for PFL compared to regular SDI?

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Harper Thompson

As far as I know, the base period calculation is the same for both SDI and PFL. But don't quote me on that - the EDD website should have the most up-to-date info.

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Jade O'Malley

have you considered setting up an LLC and paying yourself as an employee? might be a way to get back into the system for future benefits. just a thought 💭

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Mia Alvarez

Interesting idea! I'll have to look into the pros and cons of that. Thanks for the suggestion!

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Hunter Edmunds

ugh the whole system is so broken. why is it so hard for ppl to get help when they need it? 😤 good luck OP, hope you figure it out

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