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anybody notice that the online system is always "down for maintenance" exactly when u need it?? like im not saying its on purpose but..... 🤔
I'm going through this exact same situation right now! It's been 12 business days since my pregnancy disability ended and I filed for PFL, and my online account is completely blank. It's so stressful not knowing what's happening, especially when you're already dealing with a newborn and need that income. Has anyone had success getting updates through the automated phone system, or do you really need to speak to an actual person? I've been hesitant to tie up the phone lines but it sounds like calling might be the only way to get real answers. The uncertainty is almost worse than knowing there's a delay!
Quick question for the OP - how long ago did you submit your claim? Might help to know so we can give you a better idea of what to expect.
Hey! I'm dealing with a similar situation right now. One thing that helped me was setting up text alerts through the EDD website if you haven't already - they'll send you updates when there's any change to your claim status. Also, if you have a doctor involved in your claim, sometimes they can provide updates on whether EDD has requested additional medical documentation. I know the waiting is stressful, but hang in there! The system is slow but it does work eventually. Keep all your confirmation numbers and reference materials handy for when you do get through to someone.
This is super helpful, thank you! I didn't know about the text alerts - that sounds like a game changer. How do you set those up exactly? I've been checking my account manually every day like a crazy person 😅 Also good point about the doctor - I should probably touch base with them to see if EDD has reached out for anything additional.
I'm so sorry for your family's loss. Going through this while navigating bureaucracy is incredibly difficult. Just wanted to add that when you submit your PFL application, make sure to clearly document the caregiving activities you're providing for your husband - things like helping him manage daily tasks he's struggling with due to his condition, accompanying him to medical appointments, and providing emotional support during the estate settlement process. EDD sometimes asks for specifics about what "care" looks like. Also, since you mentioned multiple trips to the UK, you might want to include a brief note explaining that the caregiving includes helping him handle his mother's affairs overseas, as this directly relates to his diagnosed condition. The international aspect shouldn't disqualify you as long as you're actively providing care. Wishing you and your family strength during this difficult time. The fact that his doctor was understanding and provided the proper diagnosis is a huge step forward.
This is really excellent advice about documenting the specific caregiving activities! I hadn't thought about how to clearly explain what "care" looks like in this situation, but you're absolutely right that EDD might want those details. The point about the international travel being part of the caregiving is especially helpful - I was worried that might complicate things, but framing it as helping him handle his mother's affairs as part of managing his diagnosed condition makes total sense. Thank you for taking the time to share these specifics. It's reassuring to know there are people in this community who understand the nuances of these situations. @8b55e46058ca I hope this additional guidance helps with your application!
I've been dealing with similar issues with government websites lately. One thing that helped me beyond the browser switching (which is great advice!) was making sure JavaScript was fully enabled and temporarily disabling any VPN if you're using one. Also, try filling out the form in sections and saving your progress frequently if the site allows it - sometimes these systems time out if you take too long on a single page. If you're still stuck, document everything with screenshots and the exact time/date of errors - this info can be really helpful when you call their support line. Hang in there, you'll get through this! 💪
This is such helpful advice! I never thought about the VPN thing - I've been using one and that could definitely be causing issues. The tip about documenting everything with screenshots is smart too. I'm going to try disabling my VPN and switching browsers first, then if that doesn't work I'll have all the error details ready when I call. Thanks for taking the time to share all these troubleshooting tips! 🙌
I just went through this nightmare last week! The EDD PFL system is so buggy. Here's what finally worked for me: 1) Use Firefox or Edge instead of Chrome, 2) Turn off ALL browser extensions temporarily, 3) Make sure you're on a stable internet connection (not public wifi), and 4) Fill out the application in one sitting without leaving the page idle. I also found that submitting between 6-8 AM worked better than during peak hours. If you're still getting errors, take screenshots and call the PFL phone line at (877) 238-4373. Yes, you'll be on hold forever, but they can sometimes push your application through manually or tell you exactly what's wrong. Don't give up - I know how stressful this is when you need the benefits! 🤞
This is incredibly helpful, thank you! I've been struggling with this for days and getting so frustrated. I was using Chrome with a bunch of extensions running, so that's probably part of the problem. The timing tip about submitting early morning is something I hadn't considered either - makes total sense that the system would be less overloaded then. I'm going to try your exact steps tomorrow morning and hopefully finally get this application through. Really appreciate you sharing what worked for you! 🙏
Jeremiah Brown
Does anyone know if theres a way to check the status of your claim online? I submitted mine weeks ago and havent heard anything back 😕
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Royal_GM_Mark
•Yeah, you can check on the EDD website. Log into your account and look for the 'Claim Status' section.
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Jeremiah Brown
•Oh awesome, thanks! I'll give that a try.
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Chloe Mitchell
Just went through this process myself a few months ago! One thing I wish someone had told me earlier - make sure your doctor fills out the medical certificate completely and legibly. My first one got rejected because the doc's handwriting was illegible and they missed a required field. Had to go back and get it redone, which delayed my whole claim by like 2 weeks. Also, if you're planning to take leave consecutively (like one parent right after the other), coordinate your start/end dates carefully so there's no gap in coverage. Good luck with everything! 🍼
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Chloe Davis
•This is such valuable advice! Thank you for sharing your experience. The part about coordinating dates between parents is something I hadn't even thought about yet. Did you and your partner both take the full 8 weeks, or did you split it differently? Also, when you say "no gap in coverage," do you mean to make sure one person's leave starts exactly when the other's ends?
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