How to end SDI and start PFL? Need advice on transitioning

I went through this last year. You definitely need to close out your disability claim before starting PFL. When you call, tell them you want to end your disability claim to transition to PFL. They'll probably ask for some details about your current situation and why you're switching. Make sure you have all your paperwork ready – they might ask for doctor's notes or other documentation. Good luck!

ugh, good luck dealing with EDD. I swear they make everything 10x more complicated than it needs to be 🙄

Quick tip: make sure you time this right. Your disability claim needs to be closed before you can apply for PFL, but you don't want too big of a gap. Maybe aim to close disability on a Friday and apply for PFL the following Monday?

Hey, I found a way to actually get someone on the phone without waiting forever. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's a video about it: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ

Make sure you have a good reason for switching to PFL. They might ask why you're ending disability. In my experience, they wantd to know if my medical condition had improved or if there were other circumstances.

Pro tip: Keep a record of EVERYTHING. Every call, every letter, every form you submit. The EDD system is a mess and you might need to prove what you've done later.

Has anyone else noticed that the online system is always "under maintenance" when you need it most? 🙄 Maybe try calling instead of using the website for this.

I transitioned from disability to PFL last month. Here's what I learned: • Call early in the morning, right when they open. Less wait time. • Have your claim number ready. • Be clear about why you're ending disability and starting PFL. • Ask about any forms you need to submit for PFL. • Inquire about the timeline and if there will be any gap in payments. • Get the name of the representative you speak with. • Follow up with an email summarizing your call (if possible) for your records. Hope this helps! The process can be frustrating, but stay persistent.

As someone who's been through this process, I'd also recommend asking about the waiting period for PFL when you call. There's typically a 7-day waiting period before PFL benefits kick in, so factor that into your timing. Also, double-check that you meet all the PFL eligibility requirements before ending your disability claim - you don't want to be stuck without any benefits! The agents can usually walk you through the requirements over the phone.

Just went through this transition myself a few weeks ago! One thing I wish someone had told me - when you call to end your disability claim, they might try to transfer you to different departments. Don't hang up if you get bounced around, it's normal. Also, if you're currently receiving disability payments, ask them to schedule the end date strategically so your last disability payment doesn't overlap with your PFL application. The system can get confused if there's any overlap and it might delay your PFL approval. Good luck! The whole process is definitely stressful but you'll get through it.