Am I the only one who thinks its ridiculous that we have to jump through so many hoops just to fix a simple mistake? The system is broken af

I went through something similar last month! I put 2023 instead of 2024 on my application and was freaking out. Here's what worked for me: I logged into the EDD portal and found a "Report Changes" section where I could submit a correction request. I uploaded a brief explanation letter with the correct dates and my claim number. Got a response within about 10 business days saying it was fixed. Way easier than trying to call! Hope this helps and saves you some stress 🤞

Just wanted to add something that might help - if you're worried about timing and waiting until summer for your baby bonding leave, you might want to consider taking at least a portion of it sooner rather than later. Not because of the PFL eligibility (as others have confirmed, you'll still get benefits even if fired), but because if they do terminate you, it might be easier to deal with the EDD application process while you're still employed and have access to your work records, pay stubs, etc. You can always split your 8 weeks - maybe take 2-4 weeks now and save the rest for when your partner's parents visit? That way you get some bonding time with your baby and also have a buffer if the work situation goes south. Plus, having recent PFL experience might make the second application smoother. Just a thought! Either way, your benefits are secure based on your work history and contributions.

Hey there! I went through something really similar last year. My employer started acting weird right before my pregnancy leave too, and I was so worried they'd fire me when I came back. They actually did let me go about 6 weeks after I returned (they claimed "restructuring" but the timing was super suspicious). The good news is I still got ALL my PFL baby bonding benefits! I applied about 2 months after being fired and had zero issues. The EDD doesn't care if you're currently employed - they only care that you paid into SDI during your base period, which you definitely did with 2.5 years of work. One tip though - if you do get fired, make sure you keep copies of all your pay stubs and employment records before you lose access to your employee portal. It made the application process much smoother when I had everything organized. Also, definitely document everything when you go back. Take screenshots of emails, keep notes with dates/times of any weird interactions. California has really strong protections for new parents and that documentation could be valuable later if you need it. You've got this! Your PFL benefits are yours regardless of what happens with that toxic job.

Has anyone tried contacting their state rep about this? I've heard some success stories

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! My PFL claim shows "processed" online but it's been over 2 weeks with no payment. I called yesterday and finally got through after 4 hours on hold - they told me there's a "system delay" affecting payments but couldn't give me a timeline. Super frustrating when you're counting on that money! Has anyone had luck with the EDD debit card vs direct deposit? Wondering if one method is faster than the other right now.

am i the only 1 who thinks its ridiculous we gotta jump through all these hoops just to get whats owed to us? the system is broken af

Have you tried reaching out to your local assembly member's office? Sometimes they can help speed things up with EDD. Worth a shot!

I'm actually experiencing the exact same issue but I'm trying to transition from taking care of my sick mother (PFL) to pregnancy disability. Does anyone know if the process works the same way in reverse? Do I need to file a new claim?

Congratulations on your baby! 🎉 I went through this exact transition last year and it was definitely confusing at first. The key thing to remember is that pregnancy disability and baby bonding PFL are two completely separate claims, even though they're both through EDD. What you filled out reporting the birth was just updating your disability claim - you absolutely need to file a brand new PFL claim for baby bonding. I'd recommend filing it about 1-2 weeks before your disability period ends (so around week 4-5 for vaginal delivery). Use form DE2508 through SDI Online, and you'll need your baby's birth certificate info but no doctor certification required for bonding. The timing is crucial - too early and the system gets confused, too late and you get a payment gap. Also keep certifying for your disability benefits until they officially end! Hope this helps and enjoy your bonding time with your little one! ❤️