Has anyone else noticed that the pay stubs for PFL look different from SDI? Threw me for a loop the first time I saw it.

Protip: If you're having trouble with the online system, try using a different browser. Chrome seems to work best for me.

Update: My payment arrived today (11/13) just like you all said it would! Thanks everyone for your help understanding the schedule. I was really stressing about it, but now I can plan better knowing it's a consistent two-week cycle. I appreciate all the advice!

That's great news that your payment arrived on time! For future reference, you can also set up text or email alerts through your SDI Online account to get notified when payments are processed. This helped me a lot when I was on disability - I'd get a notification the day before the money hit my account. Also, since you mentioned you're dealing with a herniated disc at L4/L5, make sure to keep track of your physical therapy appointments and any changes in your condition. If your recovery isn't progressing as expected, your doctor might need to extend your disability period, which would require submitting additional medical documentation to EDD. It's always better to handle these things proactively rather than waiting until the last minute! Hope your back continues to heal and that the rest of your disability claim goes smoothly.

hey op, any updates? were you able to get through to anyone?

I went through something similar a few months back. Here's what finally worked for me: I sent a message through the "Contact EDD" feature in my online account AND mailed a physical letter to my local EDD office explaining the situation. Make sure to include your Social Security number, the date you submitted the questionnaire, and any confirmation numbers you received. Also, if you have a disability case worker assigned to you, try reaching out to them directly - they sometimes have more pull than the general customer service line. Don't give up! The squeaky wheel gets the grease with EDD. Your benefits should be backdated once they sort this mess out.

I know you've gotten a lot of advice, but one more important thing: make sure your therapist includes detailed clinical notes about why you specifically cannot perform your regular or customary work duties. EDD has been scrutinizing mental health extensions more carefully lately. The more specific the documentation about how your condition prevents you from working, the better chance of approval without delays.

Hey Freya, I just went through this exact situation 3 months ago with my psychiatrist for my own PPD extension! The stress is real, but you CAN get this sorted out. A couple things that really helped me: 1) Have your therapist call that Medical Provider Support line (1-855-342-3645) FIRST thing tomorrow morning - they walked my doctor through the whole registration process over the phone and it was SO much faster than trying to figure it out online. 2) While she's getting registered, ask her to start drafting the clinical notes now so she's ready to submit immediately once her account is active. 3) Don't panic about the timeline - even if there's a small gap, the benefits will be backdated if approved. I had a 3-day gap and got every penny back. You've got this mama, PPD recovery takes time and EDD does recognize that. Hang in there! 💙

UPDATE: Success!!! I used Claimyr this morning (thanks for that suggestion) and got connected to an EDD rep in about 25 minutes! The amazing woman I spoke with said she could see exactly what happened - the system flagged my account for a "certification gap" because of the late form. She processed an override on the spot and said my payments for the missed weeks should deposit within 24-48 hours. She also noted my account to ensure I get text notifications going forward. HUGE relief - I seriously was about to have a breakdown over this. For anyone else with payment delays after submitting forms late, definitely try to speak with someone directly - they CAN fix it once you explain the situation.

So happy to see your update! This gives me hope for others dealing with similar issues. It's crazy how the system can create these "certification gaps" but then a knowledgeable rep can fix it in minutes. Your experience really shows why it's worth trying multiple approaches - the direct SDI number, the specific phone prompts, services like Claimyr, or even contacting assembly members. The key seems to be persistence and finding the right person who actually understands the system. Thanks for sharing your success story - it'll definitely help others who find this thread later!