Ugh, I've been there before. It's so frustrating! Make sure you have all the details about the check ready when you call - like the date, amount, and any reference numbers. Also, be prepared to explain why you couldn't cash it. Good luck!

I had a similar issue a few months ago! The bank told me it was because there was a security feature on the check that their scanner couldn't read properly. When I called EDD, they were actually pretty helpful - they cancelled the old check and sent me a new one within about 10 business days. The key is to have your claim number ready and be specific about the error you got when trying to cash it. Also, ask them to put a note in your file about the issue in case it happens again. Hope this helps!

Plot twist: what if the payment actually went through but your bank is holding it for some reason? Might be worth giving them a call too.

I'm dealing with the same issue right now! My payment was supposed to hit yesterday and nothing. I've been checking my account obsessively. From what I've gathered reading through these comments, it sounds like calling early in the morning or checking with your bank might be the way to go. Has anyone heard if there's been any system-wide issues this week that might be causing delays? Really hoping this gets sorted out soon because rent is due! 😰

Congrats on the new job! Don't forget to factor in how this might affect other benefits you're receiving, like food stamps or healthcare. Sometimes going back to work can mess with those too.

One thing I wish someone had told me - make sure your employer knows your exact start date too! I had a mix-up where I told EDD one date but my HR had me down for a different date, and it caused some confusion with my final benefit payment. Also, if you're starting part-time or have a probationary period, you might still qualify for reduced benefits during that transition. Worth asking about!

im in the same boat. been trying to file a claim for 2 weeks now. this whole system is a joke tbh

I had this exact same error code a few weeks ago! What finally worked for me was using an incognito/private browsing window and making sure I had JavaScript enabled. Also, try using Chrome if you're not already - some of the older browsers seem to have issues with their site. The E324 error is super frustrating but don't give up! If the browser fixes don't work, definitely try calling during the times Omar mentioned - early morning around 8am seems to be the sweet spot.

Just wanted to add another perspective as someone who went through this 2 years ago! The confusion about the Maximum Benefit Amount is totally understandable - I remember staring at that number thinking I'd hit the lottery, lol. But as others have confirmed, you only get paid for the weeks your doctor certifies you as disabled, plus the 8 weeks of PFL bonding time. One tip that saved me stress: start the PFL application process about 2 weeks BEFORE your disability period ends. I know others mentioned applying "immediately after" but I found starting the paperwork early helped avoid any payment gaps. The transition can be smoother if EDD has time to review everything. Also, keep copies of EVERYTHING - your doctor's notes, all forms you submit, confirmation numbers, etc. I had to resubmit paperwork twice because things got "lost in the system." Having organized copies made it much easier to resend quickly. Your weekly benefit amount is great though! That should give you good financial support during those precious early weeks with your baby. Wishing you a smooth pregnancy and delivery! 🍼

I'm currently navigating this same situation as a first-time mom and found this thread so helpful! Just wanted to add that I called EDD directly last week and the representative confirmed what everyone here is saying - the Maximum Benefit Amount is NOT what you'll receive for maternity leave. It's the total amount available for your entire benefit year if you have multiple qualifying disabilities. For standard pregnancy/childbirth, you get exactly what your doctor certifies: typically 4 weeks before delivery + 6-8 weeks after (depending on delivery type) for disability, then you can apply for 8 weeks of PFL for bonding. That's it - usually 18-20 weeks total. The rep also emphasized that the key is proper medical certification from your doctor. They need to specifically state the dates you're unable to work due to your condition. Without that certification, benefits can be denied or cut short. One more thing - if you're planning to take any vacation time or unpaid leave beyond the paid benefits, make sure to coordinate with your HR department about how that affects your job protection under FMLA. The paid benefits and job protection are separate things! Hope this helps clarify things even more. Pregnancy paperwork is overwhelming enough without EDD confusion! 😅