Transitioning from SDI to unemployment when employer can't reinstate position - eligible for UI?

Yes, you can apply for UI benefits if your employer doesn't have a position for you when your SDI ends. This is actually more common than you might think. You should apply for unemployment immediately after your SDI benefits end - don't wait for an official termination notice. Under California law, if they can't accommodate your work restrictions, that's considered a valid reason to qualify for UI benefits. Just make sure you're able and available for work (even with restrictions) when you apply. The EDD will likely contact your employer to verify the situation, so be prepared to explain that they couldn't accommodate your medical restrictions or return you to your position.

apply for unemployment ASAP dont wait!! my cousin was on SDI for like 3 months and her job did the same thing. she waited 2 weeks to apply and regretted it. EDD takes forever to process claims these days

I went through this exact situation last year. Here's what you need to know: 1) File your UI claim the same day your SDI ends - not before (it'll get rejected) and not after (you'll lose benefit days) 2) When the application asks if you have a return-to-work date, select "No" since your employer has indicated they may not have a position 3) If asked why you're no longer working, select "Laid off/No work available" - not medical separation or voluntary quit 4) You'll need to be able to work with your restrictions - make sure you indicate you're available for suitable work within your medical limitations 5) Be prepared for an eligibility phone interview - they'll want to verify your employer can't accommodate your restrictions The process took about 3 weeks for my first payment to arrive, but it included backpay to my filing date. Make sure you certify on time every two weeks once your claim is established.

When I called the EDD about this same situation they HUNG UP ON ME THREE TIMES!!! 🤬 The phone system is absolutely USELESS. I spent 4 hours calling over and over just to get disconnected. The whole system is designed to make you give up!!

wait so ur on sdi now? i thout u could work while on sdi? im so confused by all these benefit names lol

One other important thing: if they formally terminate you, make sure to get it in writing with the reason clearly stated. If they say it's due to your medical restrictions, that documentation will help your UI claim. Also, check if you qualify for severance - many employers will offer it to avoid potential disability discrimination claims. And don't forget to look into COBRA for continuing your health insurance.

To answer your question about severance affecting UI: Severance payments can delay the start of your unemployment benefits in California, but it depends on how it's paid out. If you receive a lump sum, the EDD may allocate that amount over several weeks and delay your benefits accordingly. If it's paid out in installments like regular paychecks, each payment could reduce your weekly UI benefit for that period. Always report any severance when you apply and when certifying.

just curious, have u asked HR directly if they're planning to let u go? maybe ur supervisor was just being weird but they actually do have to take u back. isn't there some law about that with disabilities?

Honestly, document EVERYTHING. Your employer sounds shady. If they're eliminating your position while you're on disability leave, that could potentially be discrimination. I'd consider consulting with an employment attorney before accepting any severance offer. A lot of them do free consultations.

Regarding recording conversations in California - be very careful here. California is a two-party consent state, meaning both parties must consent to being recorded. Recording without consent is illegal and could create bigger problems for you. Instead, take detailed notes immediately after any conversation, including date, time, who was present, and what was discussed. Send follow-up emails summarizing conversations with phrases like "As we discussed today..." to create a paper trail.