let us know what happens! lots of us deal with this stupid problem

UPDATE: I talked to my primary care doctor in California and explained the situation. She agreed to review my therapy records and fill out a new certification form! I had my Nevada therapist send over detailed notes and my diagnosis, and my CA doctor will submit the certification by the end of the week. She said she's done this before for other patients. Such a relief! Thanks everyone for your help - especially the suggestion to use my primary care doctor instead.

Update: I finally got through to EDD using that Claimyr service (thank you for that suggestion!) and spoke with a really helpful representative. They explained that I need to submit both the appeal form AND the supplemental documentation about my workers' comp reduction. The rep actually sent me all the forms I need by email while I was on the phone! I'm pulling everything together today and will submit it tomorrow. Will keep you all posted on what happens. Thanks everyone for your help during this stressful time!

I'm really glad to hear you got through to someone at EDD! This whole situation highlights how broken the communication system is - it shouldn't take a third-party service just to speak with a representative about basic benefits. Your case is a perfect example of why we need better coordination between workers' comp and SDI systems. Too many people fall through the cracks when their work injury benefits get reduced but they still can't access disability support. Fingers crossed that your appeal goes smoothly now that you have the right forms and documentation. Please do keep us updated - your experience could really help others who find themselves in similar situations!

To summarize what others have said and address your specific situation: 1. You absolutely CAN take state PFL baby bonding benefits even though your employer already classified you as on their company baby bonding leave 2. You have up to 12 months from your child's birth date to use PFL benefits 3. If you're getting your disability extended, the PFL would typically start after your disability ends 4. The main complication is job protection - while you're eligible for state PFL benefits anytime in the first year, your employer might not be required to hold your position if you split up your leave and return to work in between I recommend: - Get your disability extension paperwork in immediately - File for PFL immediately after your disability ends (using form DE 2501F) - Clarify with your HR what job protections you have under their policies and CFRA/FMLA You deserve both your recovery time AND your bonding time!

I went through something very similar last year! Just want to emphasize what others have said - your employer's leave policies and the state benefits are completely separate systems. I was also confused because my company called it "maternity leave" but I still had to file my own claims with EDD for both SDI and PFL. One thing to watch out for - make sure you understand exactly when your current disability period officially ends so you can time your PFL application correctly. There shouldn't be any gap between the two if you want continuous benefits. And definitely get that disability extension paperwork submitted ASAP if your doctor agrees you need more recovery time. The 12-month window for PFL bonding is real, so you have plenty of time to figure out the best timing for your family. Don't let your employer's confusing terminology stress you out - you've earned these benefits through your payroll deductions!

Have you checked your claim status online? Sometimes you can find the info you need without having to call.

I've been in the same boat! What worked for me was calling the alternate number (1-800-480-3287) instead of the main SDI line. Also try calling right at 8am when they open - set multiple alarms and be ready to dial exactly at 8:00. Another trick is to press 0 immediately when you hear the menu options, sometimes it bypasses the automated system. If you do get through, ask the rep to put a note on your account about the call drops so they're aware of the technical issues. Hang in there!

Based on everything here, I'd recommend a hybrid approach: 1. File for SDI immediately (today if possible) 2. Use some sick pay to cover immediate needs (maybe 1-2 weeks) 3. Keep some sick pay in reserve in case of SDI delays 4. Call your doctor's office tomorrow to confirm they know to submit the medical certification electronically 5. If you don't see progress on your claim within 10 days, consider using a service to reach EDD directly With back surgery recovery, you'll likely qualify for the full SDI period your doctor certifies. And remember - if you need an extension beyond the initial certification period, your doctor can submit additional certifications to extend your SDI benefits. The maximum benefit period is 52 weeks.

Hey Javier, I went through something similar after my knee surgery last fall. One thing I didn't see mentioned here is that you should also check if your employer offers any short-term disability insurance through a private carrier (like Aflac or MetLife) in addition to the state SDI. Some people don't realize they might have both options. Also, when you file your SDI claim online, take screenshots of every page and save your confirmation number! I had a technical glitch during my application and having those screenshots saved me from having to restart the whole process. One more tip - if your doctor gives you a return-to-work date that turns out to be too optimistic (which happens a lot with back surgeries), don't wait until the last minute to request an extension. Start that conversation with your doctor at least a week before your current certification expires. Extensions are totally normal but they need to be submitted before your current period ends to avoid gaps in payment. Hope your recovery goes smoothly!