UPDATE: I wanted to let everyone know what worked for me in case someone else has this problem in the future. I used the Claimyr service that someone recommended and got through to an actual SDI representative in about 20 minutes! The rep was able to verify my identity using my driver's license, social security number, and address history. She reset my account access and helped me start my disability claim right there on the phone. The weird thing is that my old unemployment account and this new disability claim are somehow separate in their system, even though they both use my SSN. The rep explained that while they're both under EDD, they use different systems. Anyway, my claim is now processing and I should receive my SDI debit card within 7-10 days according to the rep. Thanks to everyone who helped with suggestions!

Wow, this is such a relief to read! I've been dealing with a similar password reset nightmare for weeks now. The fact that UI and SDI use different systems is really good to know - I was getting so frustrated thinking it was all one big mess. @QuantumQuest thanks for sharing your success story and @Fatima Al-Hashemi thanks for explaining the system differences. I'm definitely going to try that Claimyr service since the regular phone lines have been impossible. It's crazy that we have to pay a third-party service just to access our own government benefits, but if it works, it's worth it. Also wanted to add for anyone else reading this - make sure you keep all your medical documentation organized from day one. I learned the hard way that EDD can request additional paperwork at any point in the process, so having everything ready speeds things up a lot.

To all those having trouble reaching a human at California Unemployment. I just ran across this video that gave me a shortcut to reach a human. Hope it helps! https://youtu.be/Ize0EkN4HDI

I'm going through something similar right now. From what I've learned, "pending" status after certifying usually means there's some kind of hold or flag on your account that needs to be reviewed before they can release payment. Since you mentioned you're waiting for an interview, that's likely what's causing the delay - they probably won't process payments until after your interview is completed and any eligibility issues are resolved. The timing can vary a lot depending on how backed up they are with interviews. I'd suggest calling the EDD line to get a more specific timeline for your interview and ask about your pending status. Hang in there!

One more important thing - this isn't a regular judge like in a courtroom, it's an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) who specializes in EDD cases. They're usually pretty understanding and just want to get the facts straight. Just explain your situation clearly, and if you made any mistakes in your application, be upfront about them. It's much better to acknowledge and explain than to have them think you were trying to hide something.

Just wanted to wish you good luck on your interview tomorrow! I went through the same thing about 6 months ago and was terrified, but honestly the judge was really professional and fair. Make sure you answer their questions directly - they usually ask about your last day of work, why you were separated, and whether you were offered any other positions. If you were laid off due to position elimination like you mentioned, that should work in your favor since it's clearly not misconduct on your part. The whole thing was over in about 20 minutes for me. You've got this!

I'd like to summarize what's been shared here for the OP since there's been a lot of information: 1. Quitting for "good cause" can qualify you for benefits - misrepresentation of job conditions can meet this standard 2. Document everything about how the job differs from what was promised 3. Keep certifying every two weeks even while waiting for your eligibility interview 4. Be prepared for a 4-8 week wait for the interview (consider Claimyr if you need to reach EDD) 5. During the interview, be specific about the discrepancies between what was promised and reality 6. If denied, you have the right to appeal One last thing - if you haven't quit yet, you might consider discussing your concerns with the employer first. This demonstrates good faith effort to resolve the issues, which strengthens your case with EDD if you do end up quitting.

One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet - make sure you also document the transportation costs for those split shifts! If you're having to make two separate trips to work in one day, that's additional gas/transportation expense that wasn't disclosed. I had a similar situation where the commute costs made the job financially unsustainable, and EDD considered that as part of my good cause argument. Also, split shifts with long gaps like that (4 hours between shifts) can be considered unreasonable working conditions since you can't really do anything productive during that break time. Good luck with your conversation with the manager tomorrow!

To all those having trouble reaching a human at California Unemployment. I just ran across this video that gave me a shortcut to reach a human. Hope it helps! https://youtu.be/Ize0EkN4HDI

I'm in a similar situation with weeks pending verification. From what I've seen in this community, the ID.me verification process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks depending on their current backlog. After you complete ID.me, EDD still needs to review your case internally which can add more time. I'd recommend checking your EDD account daily for updates and maybe try calling using one of those methods Tom shared if you don't see progress after 2-3 weeks. Keep all your documentation handy in case they need additional verification. Hang in there - the waiting is frustrating but most people do get through eventually.