Congratulations on your new daughter! I'm actually going through something similar right now - my baby was born in February and I'm planning to take my PFL leave in April when my partner returns to work. Based on what everyone else has shared here, it sounds like the key is definitely waiting until your actual leave start date in May to apply. I've been preparing by gathering all my documents ahead of time - birth certificate, setting up my EDD account, and most importantly, I've already talked to my HR department about the DE2508 form they'll need to complete. One thing I learned from a coworker who did this last year is to send your HR department a friendly reminder email about a week before your leave starts, just to make sure they're ready to fill out their portion quickly. Apparently some companies are faster than others at processing these forms. The 12-month window to use the 8 weeks is actually pretty flexible, so even if there are minor delays, you're not going to lose out on the benefit. Good luck with everything - sounds like you're being really thoughtful about planning this out!

Hey, congrats on your daughter! 🎉 I went through this exact same confusion when my twins were born last year. The timing thing threw me off too because my company's HR kept telling me different things. Here's what actually worked for me: I applied on the very first day I stopped working in June (my babies were born in April). The whole "7-day waiting period" thing you're seeing is for disability benefits, not PFL - totally different program! For bonding leave, you get paid starting from day one if approved. My processing timeline was pretty typical - submitted everything on a Monday, got approval the following Friday (so about 10 business days), and had my first payment by the next Wednesday. Two things that really helped speed things up: 1. I had already gotten a certified copy of the birth certificates ahead of time 2. I gave my manager a heads up two weeks before my leave that they'd need to complete the employer form ASAP The money stress is real when you're planning this stuff out, but honestly the system worked smoother than I expected once I actually started the process. Just resist the urge to apply early - I know it's tempting but it'll just create headaches!

Hey OP, just a heads up - make sure you keep all your documentation, even after you get the denial letter. I had a similar issue and ended up needing to reference old docs months later. Better safe than sorry!

I went through this exact same thing about 6 months ago. My claim vanished from the system right after I exhausted my benefits and I was panicking because I needed that denial letter for my new job. Here's what worked for me: I sent a written request through their Contact EDD form on their website specifically asking for a "Notice of Determination" or denial letter. I included my SSN, claim dates, and explained that my claim disappeared from the online portal. It took about 2-3 weeks but they mailed it to me. Way less stressful than trying to get through on the phone! Also document everything - screenshot your online account showing no active claim before it completely disappears.

Thank you all SO much for the helpful information! To summarize what I've learned: 1. I need to apply for UI with military spouse provision, not PFL 2. I can't apply until after my last day of work 3. I need my husband's PCS orders, our marriage certificate, and a letter from my employer 4. I must be available and actively looking for work in our new location 5. I need to keep detailed records of my job search efforts 6. Be prepared for a phone interview and answer when unknown numbers call 7. Make copies of all documents before they get packed This is exactly the guidance I needed. You've all been so helpful! Now I can plan our budget and timeline more accurately.

One more thing to add - when you're documenting your job search activities for the bi-weekly certifications, keep a simple spreadsheet with company names, positions applied for, dates, and method of contact. EDD can request to see these records at any time, and having them organized will save you major headaches if they audit your claim. Also, LinkedIn job applications count as valid job search activities, so don't forget to include those! The military spouse provision is really helpful, but they still expect you to be genuinely looking for work in your new state.

Maybe try applying online instead of by phone? I found the online system to be more reliable (tho still not perfect lol

I work at a local social services office and see this issue way too often. Here's what I recommend: 1) File a new PFL application ASAP - don't wait for them to fix the "missing" one. 2) When you call, ask to speak with a supervisor and mention that your original application disappeared from their system. 3) Keep detailed notes of every call (date, time, rep name, what was discussed). The squeaky wheel gets the grease with EDD unfortunately. Also, if you're still within your benefit period, you shouldn't lose any eligibility by reapplying. Hang in there!

Hey, don't lose hope! I managed to get my issue resolved after a few calls. Just be persistent and don't be afraid to ask for a supervisor if you're not getting anywhere with the first person you talk to.

I went through something similar a few months ago. Turns out the 8 vs 12 week thing often depends on the specific reason for your leave. For bonding with a new child, it's typically 8 weeks, but if you're caring for a seriously ill family member, you might qualify for up to 12 weeks. Also, double-check that you didn't accidentally apply for SDI instead of PFL - I know people who've made that mistake. When you call, have your Social Security number and claim number ready, and don't hang up if they put you on hold for a long time. The wait sucks but it's usually worth it to get answers. Keep us posted on what you find out!