Thanks for all the replies everyone. Guess ill wait a bit longer before I start freaking out lol. Might try that calling service if I get desperate enough.

Hey OP, I totally get the anxiety - waiting for disability benefits when you really need them is incredibly stressful. Just went through this myself last year. 3 weeks is still within the normal range, though I know that doesn't make the waiting any easier when bills are piling up. A few things that helped me: First, definitely create an online account if you haven't already - sometimes status updates show up there before you get anything in the mail. Second, gather all your paperwork now so you're ready if they ask for additional documentation (they probably will). And third, if you're really struggling financially while waiting, reach out to local social services - many have emergency assistance programs that can help bridge the gap. The system is frustratingly slow, but hang in there. Most people do eventually get approved, it just takes way longer than it should. Sending good vibes your way! 🤞

This thread is so reassuring! I've been stressing about this exact situation for weeks. I was injured at my new job (only been there 4 months) and my doctor says I need at least 6 weeks off. My previous job paid almost double what I'm making now, and I was terrified I'd only get benefits based on my current low wages. Reading about the base period system and seeing so many success stories from people in similar situations has given me so much hope. I especially appreciate the former EDD worker's explanation - it really helps to understand how the system actually works behind the scenes. I'm definitely going to file my claim this week and not wait any longer. Thank you all for sharing your experiences and advice!

I'm dealing with a very similar situation right now and this entire thread has been a lifesaver! I've been at my current job for just 3 months when I injured my knee and need surgery. My previous employer where I worked for 5 years paid significantly more, so I was really panicking about my potential benefit amount. Reading everyone's experiences, especially the detailed explanation from Rachel about how the base period system works automatically, has completely eased my anxiety. It's incredible how this community comes together to help each other navigate these stressful situations. I'm filing my claim tomorrow and feeling much more confident thanks to all the advice shared here. For anyone else reading this who's in a similar boat - don't let fear hold you back from filing. The system really does seem designed to protect workers who change jobs. Thank you all for sharing your stories!

I work at a local credit union and wanted to chime in about the timing. In my experience helping members with EDD disability checks, the average delivery time after authorization is about 5-6 business days, but I've seen it range from 3-9 days depending on mail routes. Since your payment was authorized today (Saturday), the earliest it would be processed for mailing is Monday, which means you're realistically looking at Thursday-Friday of next week at the earliest. For your rent situation, I'd definitely recommend being proactive with your landlord - most property managers are understanding when tenants communicate early about delays. One more tip: if you have a good banking relationship, some institutions will work with you on emergency situations like this. We sometimes offer small emergency loans or can expedite check clearing if you bring documentation of the authorized payment. Might be worth a conversation with your bank!

I've been getting SDI checks for about 6 months now and can confirm what others are saying about the timing. Your check will most likely arrive within 5-7 business days of authorization. Since yours was authorized today (Saturday), expect processing to start Monday and delivery probably by Friday or early next week. One thing I wish someone had told me when I started - if you're cutting it close with bills, consider setting up payment arrangements with utilities/landlord BEFORE you're actually late. I had to learn this the hard way my first month. Most companies are way more flexible when you call ahead rather than after missing a payment. Also, once you get into the rhythm of bi-weekly certifications, the timing becomes super predictable. Hang in there - the first payment is always the most stressful because you don't know what to expect!

I had this exact same issue last month! What finally worked for me was using Edge browser (I know, I know, but hear me out) and making sure JavaScript was enabled. Also try disabling any browser extensions temporarily - sometimes they interfere with government sites. The EDD website is notoriously finicky but these steps got me through. If you're still stuck after trying the browser fixes, you might want to try filing during off-peak hours like super early morning (5-7 AM). Good luck!

I've been dealing with EDD website issues for weeks now! What's been working for me lately is using Safari on my iPhone instead of my laptop. For some reason the mobile version seems more stable. Also, if you have two-factor authentication set up, make sure your phone has good signal when you're trying to file - I got locked out twice because the verification texts were delayed. Another trick: save your progress frequently if the site lets you, because it times out super quick. Hope you get through soon!

I went through this exact situation 6 months ago and it was absolutely devastating at the time. EDD withheld my entire PFL payment for an overpayment I didn't even know about until they took my money. Here's what worked for me: I submitted the DE 1446W hardship waiver AND immediately called to request a payment arrangement while the waiver was being processed. The key is to be very detailed about your baby expenses - formula, diapers, medical copays, childcare if you're planning to return to work, etc. I also included a letter from my pediatrician stating that financial stress could impact my ability to care for my newborn. It took about 6 weeks, but my hardship waiver was approved and they released the held payments. Don't give up - they do approve these waivers, especially for new parents. The system is definitely broken, but there are ways to work within it. Document everything and keep pushing!

I'm going through this nightmare right now too! Just had my son 5 weeks ago and EDD is holding ALL my PFL payments because of some overpayment from unemployment I got during COVID. I had absolutely no idea they could just take money from a completely different program - it feels like theft when you're counting on that money for basic baby needs. Reading through everyone's advice here has been incredibly helpful though. I'm definitely going to try the DE 1446W hardship waiver form and the Claimyr service to actually get through to someone. It's so frustrating that we have to fight this hard just to get benefits we're entitled to, especially when we're already exhausted new parents. Thank you to everyone sharing their experiences and tips - it's reassuring to know I'm not the only one dealing with this mess and that there might actually be a way out!