I'm new to this community but dealing with a similar PFL situation right now! Reading through everyone's experiences here has been incredibly helpful. I just wanted to add that when I spoke with an EDD representative last week (finally got through after using that Claimyr service someone mentioned), they told me that split PFL claims are actually more common than people think, especially for new parents who want to stagger their leave. The rep I spoke with emphasized that the key to a successful appeal is being very clear that you DID use all the benefits you received - just not in the timeframe EDD initially expected. She said they see this type of appeal regularly and most get approved when there's proper documentation. One thing she mentioned that I haven't seen in the comments yet: if you have any text messages or emails between you and your wife discussing the leave plans (like "mom is leaving next month so I'll take my remaining weeks then"), include those as supporting evidence too. It shows this was always your intention, not something you decided after receiving the overpayment notice. Really hoping your appeal goes smoothly! This whole process is so stressful but it sounds like you have a strong case.

I just went through something very similar with my own PFL claim! Based on everyone's advice here, I definitely think appealing is your best bet. I wanted to add one more tip that helped me - when you're gathering documentation, don't forget about any medical appointments or pediatric visits that happened during those 5 weeks she took off later. Those appointment records with dates can serve as additional proof that she was actually on leave caring for your baby during that time period. Also, I see people mentioning Claimyr - I used them too and it was honestly a lifesaver. The $20 or whatever it costs is so worth it compared to losing entire days trying to get through to EDD. The representative I spoke with through their service was actually really knowledgeable about PFL appeals and gave me specific guidance on what language to use in my appeal letter. One last thing - make sure you keep copies of EVERYTHING you submit for your appeal. EDD has a tendency to "lose" paperwork and you'll want to have backup copies ready. Good luck with your appeal - it sounds like you have a really strong case!

Thank you all for the incredibly helpful advice! I've started documenting all the harassment incidents I can remember with dates and details. I'll make sure to indicate that I quit due to harassment when I certify this Sunday, and I'll try calling EDD (though it sounds like getting through will be challenging). Since the owner was the main person harassing me and it's a small business with no HR department, I'm hoping that will help my case since there wasn't really anyone else I could report to. I did try discussing the issue directly with her multiple times, so I'll make sure to mention that during the interview. I'm definitely nervous about potentially losing benefits while this gets resolved, but at least now I know what to expect. I'll update here after my determination interview in case it helps anyone else in a similar situation.

Good luck with everything! It sounds like you have a solid understanding of the process now. One thing I'd add - if you have any customers or coworkers who witnessed the harassment, try to get their contact information if possible. Even if they can't formally testify, having their names and phone numbers shows EDD that there were potential witnesses to back up your claims. Also, when you do get through to EDD (whenever that happens), ask them to put a note in your file about the harassment situation. Sometimes having it documented early in the system can help speed up the determination process. The fact that you tried to address it directly with the owner multiple times before quitting will definitely work in your favor - that shows you made a good faith effort to resolve the situation before leaving. Keep us posted on how it goes!

Thanks everyone for the helpful advice! I've scheduled an appointment with my doctor tomorrow to get the DE 2501 form completed. Based on your suggestions, I'll file for SDI immediately after getting that certification, and then indicate I'm unable to work on my next UI certification. I'm still nervous about a potential gap in payments, but it sounds like that's just part of the process. I'll update this thread after I go through the transition in case it helps someone else.

Good luck with your appointment tomorrow! One small tip that helped me - when your doctor fills out the DE 2501, make sure they're specific about your functional limitations (like the 30-minute sitting/standing restriction you mentioned). The more detailed they are about how your scoliosis affects your ability to work, the smoother your SDI approval tends to go. Also, keep copies of everything - the medical form, your SDI application confirmation, and your final UI certification. Having that paper trail saved me when I had questions about my case later. You're doing the right thing by getting all the info first instead of just winging it!

I went through this exact situation last Christmas! My SDI payment period ended on December 23rd and I was so worried about the holiday delay. What actually happened was that my payment processed normally on the 23rd and hit my account the next day (Christmas Eve) via direct deposit. The key thing I learned is that EDD processes SDI payments automatically at the end of each 14-day period, and as long as that end date isn't the actual holiday, you're usually okay. Since your period ends on the 24th (Christmas Eve), you should be fine - it's the 25th that's the official holiday. Just keep an eye on your SDI Online account on the 24th to see if the payment shows as "Paid" status. If it does, it should hit your bank account within 1-2 business days even with the holiday. Good luck!

I get paid on Fridays. Usually, I’m the direct deposit it sent on Thursdays however, this Thursday was Thanksgiving. I haven’t received direct deposit yet and it’s Saturday.

Update: I was able to get through to EDD using Claimyr (thanks for that suggestion!). The representative confirmed I need to submit a written withdrawal request and said they've added notes to my account. I've drafted a letter with all my information, claim details, and explanation about returning to work. I'm also planning to visit the local office tomorrow with a copy. Thank you everyone for the advice! I'll be super careful not to certify for any benefits now that I'm going back to work. This has been really stressful, but I feel much better knowing what steps to take.

That's great news that you were able to get through to EDD! Just wanted to add one more tip - when you visit the office tomorrow, bring multiple copies of your withdrawal letter. Sometimes they'll want to keep the original and give you a stamped copy for your records. Also ask them to give you a case number or reference number for your withdrawal request so you can track it if needed. Good luck with everything and congratulations on your faster recovery!