I'm going through the same thing right now! Filed about 2 weeks ago and still showing pending. From what I've read in other forums, it seems like 2-4 weeks is pretty normal for initial processing, but it's so nerve-wracking when you're waiting for that money. I've been checking my account obsessively every day 😅 Have you gotten any correspondence from them yet, or is it just radio silence?

I've been through this exact situation! My first claim took about 3.5 weeks to go from pending to paid, which was agonizing at the time but apparently pretty typical. A few things that helped me stay sane during the wait: 1) Set up text alerts in your UI Online account so you don't have to keep checking manually, 2) Make sure all your documents are uploaded correctly (I had to re-submit my ID verification which delayed things), and 3) Keep a record of all your certifications even while pending. The good news is that once it does go through, you'll get backpay for all those pending weeks! Stay strong, the wait is brutal but it will come through eventually 💪

Thanks for sharing your experience! I'm actually dealing with a similar situation - submitted my PFL application about 10 days ago and it's been radio silence since then. The waiting game is brutal when you're depending on that income. I did apply online like you did, so hopefully that helps with processing time. One thing I found helpful was signing up for text alerts through the EDD portal - at least you get notified when there's any status change instead of obsessively checking the website every few hours (guilty as charged 😅). Hang in there, hopefully we both hear back soon!

I'm in a similar situation - submitted my PFL application about a week ago and the waiting is nerve-wracking! Reading through everyone's experiences here is both reassuring and concerning at the same time 😅 It sounds like the timeline really varies from person to person. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that since I also applied online and didn't need any additional docs, maybe it'll be on the faster side. Has anyone noticed if the time of year affects processing times? I submitted mine right after the holidays so I'm wondering if that might slow things down.

I'm going through almost the exact same situation right now! Got terminated while on maternity leave in December and my PFL is ending in two weeks. This thread is so helpful - I had no idea about applying a few days before PFL ends to get in the queue early. One question though - has anyone dealt with having to explain the pregnancy discrimination aspect during the UI interview? My employer gave some BS reason for the layoff but the timing was obviously related to my leave. I'm worried they might question my eligibility or think I quit voluntarily somehow.

I went through this exact transition last year and can confirm - use the date AFTER your PFL ends, not your original termination date. The EDD systems don't play well together if there's overlap. Also, definitely apply for UI a few days before your last PFL payment like others mentioned. One thing I didn't see mentioned - when you file for UI, they'll ask if you've received any benefits in the last 18 months. Make sure to mention your PFL benefits so they can properly coordinate between the programs. The rep I spoke with said this helps prevent any automated flags or delays. Hang in there - I know how stressful this whole situation is, especially with a new baby and depleted savings. The system works, it's just not always intuitive how to navigate the transitions.

UPDATE: I was able to log into my old EDD account and start my PFL application! For anyone who finds this thread later - yes, you use the same account for unemployment, disability and paid family leave. My dad's doctor was amazing and completed their portion within 24 hours. The online system was actually easier to navigate than I expected. Now I'm just waiting for the claim to be processed. Thanks everyone for your help and advice!

This is such great information everyone shared! I'm actually in a similar situation - my mom just had hip surgery and will need help for the next few weeks. I had no idea you could use the same EDD account for different programs. Quick question for those who've been through this - do you need to be taking UNPAID leave to qualify for PFL? My work has a pretty good sick leave policy so I could technically use my accrued sick days, but I'd rather save those for emergencies. Can I choose to take unpaid FMLA leave and get PFL benefits instead? Also really appreciate the tip about the 7-day waiting period not applying to caregiving PFL. That's a huge relief since every day of lost income adds up when you're already dealing with medical expenses.

I'm in almost the exact same boat right now! Filed PFL first, then found out I should have done SDI. It's so frustrating that the system isn't more clear about this. I've been reading through all these responses and feeling a lot more hopeful though. Planning to call first thing Monday morning with all my documentation ready. Has anyone had success with the online chat feature, or is calling really the only way to get this sorted out? Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - it's really helpful to know we're not alone in this confusion!

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this stress on top of everything else after having a c-section! This exact situation happened to my sister last year - she filed PFL first and then panicked when she realized she needed SDI. The good news is that EDD sees this mix-up A LOT, especially with new parents who are navigating all this for the first time. When she called (took several attempts to get through), she was honest about the confusion and they were actually pretty understanding. They were able to cancel her PFL and backdate the SDI claim about 5 weeks out. The key things that helped her case were: 1) being upfront about the employer misinformation, 2) having all her medical documentation ready, and 3) following up regularly. It took about 3 weeks total once she got the right person on the phone. Don't lose hope - this is fixable! And definitely don't blame yourself, the system is genuinely confusing and your HR should have guided you better. Wishing you the best of luck! ✨