idk if this helps, but I had to send in additional medical documentation when I extended my leave. Did they ask you for anything like that?

OMG yes, I went through this exact same thing! Only got paid for 3 days out of my 6-week leave initially. It turned out there was a glitch in their system that wasn't processing the full claim period correctly. What worked for me was emailing them with my claim number and a detailed timeline of what should have been covered. I sent it to the generic PFL email address but also CC'd their customer service manager (you can find the email on their website). Got a response within 48 hours and they fixed it. Also, for extending your leave - make sure you submit the extension request at least 2 weeks before your current leave ends if possible. They're super slow with processing extensions and you don't want a gap in coverage. Hope this helps! The system is frustrating but don't give up 💪

Anyone else think its ridiculous that we have to jump through so many hoops just to get basic support after having a baby? The whole system needs an overhaul tbh

Oh no, I feel your pain! I made the exact same mistake after my delivery. The good news is it's totally fixable, just annoying to deal with. Here's what worked for me: Call the PFL line first thing in the morning (8am sharp) - they're usually less busy then. Tell them you need to withdraw your claim due to filing error. They'll give you a confirmation number - write it down! Then immediately call the SDI line and explain the situation. The whole process took me about 3 weeks total, but I didn't lose any benefits. Just make sure you have all your medical documentation ready when you refile. Your doctor should have given you the right forms for disability, not family leave. Hang in there mama, you'll get through this! ❤️

Thank you so much for this amazing checklist! I'm going to start getting organized right away. It's so helpful to hear from someone who's been through it multiple times!

Hey Kai! I just went through this whole process last year and wanted to add a few more tips that really helped me: 1. When you create your SDI Online account, make sure to use the same email address consistently - I made the mistake of using different emails and it caused delays in getting notifications. 2. If you're planning to breastfeed, you might be eligible for additional disability time beyond the standard 6-8 weeks if you have complications. My doctor was able to extend my SDI for breastfeeding-related issues. 3. Keep copies of EVERYTHING - your paystubs, doctor's notes, all EDD correspondence. I had to provide documentation multiple times during my claims. 4. The weekly benefit amount is calculated based on your highest quarter earnings in your base period (usually 5-17 months before your claim). So if you got a raise recently, it might not be reflected in your benefit amount. 5. You can actually start collecting PFL baby bonding leave while your partner is also on their own PFL claim - both parents can take it simultaneously if needed. Hope this helps ease some of your stress! The whole process seems overwhelming at first but you've got this! 💪

my cousin said she just logged into her benefits account and filled everything out there first and then took the dr form in. might be easier that way??

I'm so sorry you're going through this - postpartum depression is already hard enough without having to navigate EDD's confusing system! I just want to emphasize what others have said: make sure you file your SDI claim online FIRST at edd.ca.gov before your doctor appointment tomorrow. When you complete the online application, you'll get a confirmation number that your doctor will need to reference on the DE2501 form. Also, if your doctor's office claims they "don't do disability forms," you can print the DE2501 yourself and bring it to them - it's literally part of their job to complete medical certifications for their patients. Don't let them brush you off! You deserve support during this difficult time. 💙

Just went through this exact transition 3 months ago! You can definitely apply tomorrow (Friday) after your disability ends, just make sure your PFL start date is Saturday. I made the mistake of waiting until Monday to apply and lost those weekend days - EDD doesn't backdate baby bonding benefits. Also, have your DE2501 claim number ready from your disability claim as it makes the application process much smoother. The online system will ask if you're transitioning from SDI to PFL, so select that option. Good luck with your remaining 5 weeks of bonding time!

I'm currently going through this transition too and called EDD yesterday to get clarity! The rep confirmed that you can apply on your last day of disability (Friday) OR the day after, as long as your PFL start date is the next business day. The key is NO GAP between your disability end date and PFL start date. What really helped me was having all my paperwork organized beforehand - your DE2501 number from disability, baby's birth certificate info, and your employer's info. The online system is pretty straightforward once you select "transitioning from SDI to PFL" option. Don't stress too much, you've got this! Those 5 weeks of bonding time will be so precious.