Anyone else feel like they need a PhD in bureaucracy just to navigate this system? 🎓🤯

I just went through this process last month and wanted to share some specific tips that helped me. Beyond the DE 2501 form, make sure your doctor includes specific functional limitations in the medical certification - like "cannot lift more than 10 lbs" or "cannot sit for more than 2 hours" rather than just listing your diagnosis. Also, if you're working reduced hours, keep detailed records of your schedule changes. The EDD loves documentation! And yes, definitely go with certified mail - I actually took photos of everything before mailing just in case. The whole process took about 5 weeks for me, but having everything perfectly documented made it go smoothly. Hang in there! 💪

Just an update - I logged into UI Online and checked my Money Network card. Turns out there WAS money on there! EDD had processed an adjustment for one of my earlier weeks where I reported partial earnings. They recalculated and added about $175 to my card that I never knew about. So thanks everyone for encouraging me to actually check instead of just ignoring those emails!

Wow, this thread is so helpful! I'm in a similar situation where I've been getting these statements for months after stopping my claim. Reading about everyone finding money they didn't know about has me nervous that I might have missed something important. Definitely going to check my UI Online and Money Network card today. It's crazy how EDD's system works - you'd think they'd send a specific notification when they make adjustments or add funds instead of burying it in regular statements. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences, especially about the potential overpayment issues. Better safe than sorry!

Thank you all for the detailed information! I'm going to call EDD tomorrow to confirm all of this and make sure I understand the process correctly. Sounds like I need to: 1. Continue UI until the baby arrives 2. Apply for PFL once the baby is born using the DE 2501F form 3. Be prepared with birth documentation 4. Understand that my UI claim timeline doesn't extend 5. Plan for a possible gap when transitioning back to UI after PFL ends It's definitely more complicated than I expected, but I'm grateful to know that the option exists.

Just wanted to add one more thing that might be helpful - when you do apply for PFL, make sure to keep copies of everything you submit. I've seen cases where EDD "loses" documentation and people have to resubmit, which can delay payments. Also, if your wife has complications during delivery or needs extended recovery time, you might be able to get additional PFL weeks beyond the standard bonding period. The maximum is usually 8 weeks for bonding, but medical care for a family member can extend that. Document everything and don't be afraid to ask questions when you call. Congrats on the upcoming baby!

Just wanted to update everyone - my claim status FINALLY changed today! Exactly 12 business days after I received the CUIAB decision. All my weeks switched from disqualified to paid, and my payment is pending in the system. Such a relief! Thanks for all your advice and support through this stressful process.

Congratulations on getting your favorable decision and finally seeing the update! Your timeline matches what most people experience - that 10-14 business day window seems pretty standard. This is really encouraging for others who might be going through the same stressful waiting period after winning their appeals. Did you get the full back pay amount you were expecting, or were there any surprises when the payments processed?

Yes I won the appeal but it took 11 weeks to get a hearing date and then another 3 weeks to get the judge's decision. The whole time I wasn't receiving any benefits. It was a nightmare. Just make sure you document EVERYTHING.

I went through something very similar last year! My advice: when you certify, definitely select "voluntarily quit" but use the explanation box to write something like "Quit retail job on [date] to accept office position with [company name]. New employer delayed start date from [original date] to January 15, 2025 due to budget constraints." The key is being upfront about everything. EDD will likely schedule an eligibility interview, but having documentation of your job offer and the delay notice will work in your favor. I had my interview about 3 weeks after my first certification and was approved because I could prove I quit for legitimate employment that fell through due to circumstances beyond my control. One tip: start your job search now and keep records of where you apply. EDD likes to see you're actively looking for work during the gap. Good luck!