Just a quick follow-up on my earlier comment - one strategy to consider if you do get a job offer now: be upfront with the employer about your pregnancy after receiving the offer (not during interviews). Some employers might be willing to let you start, work for a few weeks, take leave for birth, and then return. Many employers would prefer this over restarting their search, especially if they like you as a candidate. You could potentially negotiate a modified onboarding plan that acknowledges your upcoming leave. This doesn't work in all fields or with all employers, but it might be worth considering.

I'm going through a very similar situation right now - 26 weeks pregnant and have been job searching since my unemployment ran out. The stress is real! One thing I learned from my sister who went through this last year is that you might want to check if your state has any temporary disability programs through other agencies while you're figuring out the EDD maze. Also, have you looked into any local pregnancy resource centers? Some of them have emergency financial assistance programs or can connect you with other support services while you're navigating this transition. I found one near me that helped with some bills while I was waiting for benefits to process. The timing is so hard because you need income NOW but also need to plan for maternity leave. Sending you lots of support - this system shouldn't be so complicated when we're already dealing with pregnancy stress!

Just a heads up, there's been some changes to the PFL policy recently. Make sure you're looking at the most up-to-date info on the official website. I almost messed up my application because I was using old guidelines 😅

I'm in the same boat right now - applied about 10 days ago and still waiting for that callback! The anxiety is real 😰 I've been checking my online account daily but no updates yet. Reading through these comments is actually making me feel better knowing I'm not alone in this. @Zainab Abdulrahman your checklist is gold, I'm definitely going to start keeping a log. Has anyone tried calling the main number directly or is it always just endless hold times?

I'm in the same boat, OP. Been waiting 3 months now. This thread is giving me some ideas tho. Hang in there!

I went through this exact same nightmare last year! The date error thing is SO common - you're definitely not alone. Here's what finally worked for me: I sent a certified letter to their appeals department with all my correct documentation AND called my state representative's office to ask for help. The rep's office actually contacted EDD on my behalf and it got resolved within 2 weeks after that. Sometimes you need that extra push from someone with more authority. Don't give up - you deserve those benefits!

I'm in the same boat, OP. Filed 6 weeks ago and crickets. This wait is killing me. How are we supposed to take care of our families without income? The system is broken af 😤

I'm going through this exact same thing right now! Filed my PFL claim 5 weeks ago and still nothing. The waiting is so stressful when you're already dealing with family stuff. I've been trying to call but can never get through - the line is always busy or I get disconnected after waiting forever. Has anyone had luck calling at specific times of day? Maybe early morning or late afternoon? I'm willing to try anything at this point. The online portal is useless too - just says "processing" with no timeline. Really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences here, at least I know I'm not alone in this mess!

when i had my last baby i tried calling edd for DAYS with no answer then found out from my sister that u can actually go to the edd office in person!!! the one by me lets u make appointments online now and they can look up ur claim right there. just an idea if ur still having problems

Hey there! I'm going through this exact same situation right now - 37 weeks pregnant and just mailed my DE2501 form yesterday. Reading through all these responses is making me feel so much better about the timing! One thing I wanted to add that helped me prepare: I created a simple checklist on my phone to track everything. I'm checking my UI Online account every morning, and I also took photos of all my paperwork before mailing just in case I need to resubmit. Also, my OB mentioned that if I go into labor before the claim is processed, I should call the hospital's patient advocate - they apparently have contacts at EDD who can help expedite urgent cases. Not sure if that's true everywhere, but might be worth asking about! Sending you good vibes for a smooth process and safe delivery! The fact that you got your paperwork in at 39 weeks shows you're more on top of things than you think! 💪