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I went through something similar and what really helped was getting a letter from my employer confirming my employment status and that I wasn't self-employed. Also, if you have any documentation from your doctor about when your disability started, include that too. The key is showing a clear timeline that proves you were employed when you became disabled. Don't let them intimidate you - if you know you're right, fight it! The appeal process is frustrating but worth it if you have a legitimate claim.
random question but are u planning to transition to paid family leave after ur pregnancy disability ends? if so start that application early!! i messed up and waited til the last minute and had a gap in my payments
Yes, I'm definitely planning to use PFL after my disability ends! Thanks for the tip - I'll make sure to start that process early. Do you know exactly how many weeks before I should begin the PFL application?
I'm so glad you were able to get this resolved! Your situation sounds almost identical to what I went through a few months ago with my pregnancy disability claim. The stress of waiting with no updates while bills are piling up is absolutely awful, especially when you're already dealing with pregnancy complications. For anyone else reading this thread who might be in a similar situation - I also recommend keeping detailed records of all your communications with both your doctor's office and EDD. I made a simple spreadsheet with dates, who I spoke with, and what was discussed. It really helped when I finally got through to an EDD rep because I could give them exact dates and reference numbers. Also, don't be afraid to ask your doctor's office about their typical processing times for EDD paperwork. Some offices are much faster than others, and knowing their usual timeline can help set realistic expectations. My OB's office told me they typically mail forms within 2-3 business days of completion, which helped me calculate when to start following up. Hope your claim processes smoothly from here and you can focus on taking care of yourself and preparing for your little one!
btw make sure u fax the disability forms dont mail them they get lost i learned that the hard way lol
I'm so sorry you're going through this - it's incredibly stressful dealing with health issues AND an uncooperative employer at the same time. I went through something similar about 6 months ago with a chronic condition that required specific workplace modifications. A few things that helped me: - Applied for SDI immediately while still technically employed but on unpaid leave. My doctor certified that I couldn't perform my "regular work duties" without accommodations, which was key - Kept detailed records of EVERY interaction with my employer about accommodations (emails, meeting notes, their responses) - Used my company's formal ADA accommodation process even though they were being difficult - this created an official paper trail The SDI approval took about 3 weeks but was retroactive to when I first applied. It definitely helped with the financial stress while everything got sorted out. One tip: when you talk to your doctor about the certification, be very clear about what your job actually requires versus what you could do with proper accommodations. That distinction is important for the SDI application. Hang in there - this process is exhausting but there are protections in place for situations like yours.
oof, extending STD is such a headache. sending good vibes your way, OP! 🙏 hope it all works out for you
One thing that really helped me was checking my status online through the EDD portal. If you haven't already, try logging into your account and looking for any updates or messages about your extension request. Sometimes they'll post updates there before they call or send mail. Also, make sure you have your confirmation number from when you submitted the paperwork - that can help when you do get through to someone on the phone. The waiting game is awful but hang in there!
Benjamin Carter
u might qualify for paid sick leave under CA law even if ur company sick time is used up. covid has special rules sometimes. worth checking
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Evelyn Martinez
•That's a good point - I hadn't thought about that angle. I'll ask HR if there were any special COVID sick leave provisions I might have missed. Thanks for the suggestion!
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Evelyn Martinez
Final update: I was able to get through to EDD (thanks @profile1 for the Claimyr suggestion - it actually worked!). The rep said I can submit a late claim with a written explanation, but approval will depend on the disability determinations office. She suggested getting a detailed letter from my doctor explaining the COVID diagnosis, symptoms, and why I couldn't work during those specific dates. Going to the doctor tomorrow to get that documentation. Crossing my fingers this works out!
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Maya Lewis
•Excellent! That's exactly the right approach. Make sure your doctor's letter specifically addresses why you were unable to perform your "regular or customary work" during those dates, as that's the key language EDD looks for. Good luck, and please let us know how it turns out - your experience could help others in similar situations!
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GalaxyGlider
•That's great news that you were able to get through! Just wanted to add - when you get that doctor's letter, also ask them to include any specific symptoms that prevented you from working (like severe fatigue, fever, breathing issues, etc.). The more detailed the medical evidence, the stronger your case will be. I've seen claims get approved even when filed late if the medical documentation is thorough. Wishing you the best of luck!
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