anyone else feel like we need a complete overhaul of the unemployment system? this is getting ridiculous

I had this exact same issue a few months ago! What worked for me was logging out completely, clearing my browser cache, and then logging back in. If that doesn't work, try accessing your account from a different device or browser. Sometimes the form takes a while to populate in the system too - mine showed up about 3-4 days after I first needed it. Also make sure you're looking in the right section - it's usually under "Forms" but sometimes it appears under "Documents" instead. Hope this helps!

I went through the exact same nightmare with ID.me! Here's what finally worked for me after weeks of frustration: First, try the paper application route - you can download form DE 2501 from the EDD website and mail it in. It takes longer but bypasses ID.me completely. If you need to stick with online, I had success by: - Using incognito/private browsing mode - Trying different times of day (early morning worked best for me) - Having backup documents ready (utility bills, bank statements, etc.) Also, document EVERYTHING - screenshot error messages, save confirmation numbers from your support tickets. If you end up needing to escalate, having a paper trail helps. The assemblyperson route that @Malik mentioned is legit - mine got back to me within 48 hours and had my case moving again. Don't feel bad about reaching out to them, that's literally what they're there for. Hang in there, you WILL get through this! The system is broken but people like us have to stick together and share what works. 💪

I'm dealing with a similar ID.me mess right now too! One thing that helped me get some movement was filing a complaint with the California Department of Consumer Affairs. They have an online complaint form and they actually follow up on ID.me issues since it affects so many state services. Also, if you're really stuck, you might want to try contacting your county's disability services office directly - sometimes they can provide alternative verification methods or at least flag your case as urgent while you're dealing with the ID.me nightmare. The whole system is frustrating but don't give up! Keep documenting everything and try multiple approaches at once. Good luck! 🍀

As someone who just went through a similar situation last fall, I want to emphasize what others have said about Sacramento's local ordinances. The city actually has some of the better COVID sick leave protections in California that are still active in 2025. You should definitely check the Sacramento Department of Labor Standards website or call their hotline - they were really helpful when I had questions about my employer's obligations. Even if your employer claims they don't offer sick time, they might actually be required to under city law, especially for COVID cases. It's worth exploring before you resign yourself to losing that week's pay entirely. Good luck and hope you recover quickly!

As someone who's dealt with COVID-related work absences, I wanted to add that you should also check if your employer participates in any voluntary short-term disability programs beyond the state SDI. Some larger companies in California offer supplemental coverage that might have different waiting periods or cover gaps that SDI doesn't. It's worth asking HR directly - they're required to provide you with information about all available benefits. Also, if you're part of a union, check your collective bargaining agreement as there might be additional protections for illness-related absences. The combination of local ordinances, potential employer benefits, and SDI might give you more coverage than you initially thought possible!

btw anyone else notice that edd website always seems to be down for maintenance on weekends when u actually have time to deal with this stuff???? so annoying

I went through something similar about 6 months ago with my knee surgery recovery. My doctor submitted the extension paperwork and it took about 9 days to show up in my account. What really helped was calling the EDD disability line (1-800-480-3287) around 8am right when they opened - I actually got through on my third try and they were able to tell me the extension was received and being processed. The rep mentioned that extensions sometimes take longer because they have to verify the medical information matches your original claim. Hang in there, it should come through soon!

Quick update question - has your payment arrived yet? Most first payments do arrive within 3 business days after the claim shows 'paid' status, despite what some are saying about longer timeframes. If it's been more than 3 business days and you still don't have the funds, you might want to contact EDD to make sure there isn't a technical issue with your BofA card connection.

That's awesome news @Josef! 36 hours is actually really good timing for a first SDI payment. I'm glad you got it sorted before rent was due. For future reference, once you're established in the system, subsequent payments usually come even faster - often within 24 hours of showing "paid" status. Thanks for updating the thread with your timeline too, that'll definitely help other people who find this post later!