guys. i just got off the phone with PFL (miracle, i know). they said theyre having issues with claims filed in the last month due to a system upgrade. might be whats causing OPs problem too

Just went through something similar last month! One thing that helped me was calling first thing in the morning (like 8 AM sharp) - seemed to have better luck getting through. Also, if you filed recently, it might be related to that system upgrade issue @Alana Willis mentioned. I'd definitely check your online account daily for any updates or document requests. Sometimes they'll ask for additional info without sending you a notification. Keep all your paperwork handy too - birth certificates, medical records, employment verification, etc. The whole process is frustrating but you'll get through it! 💪

Just wanted to add something important about the timing - you mentioned your UI benefits run out around $2500 left. Make sure to calculate how long that will last you at your current weekly benefit rate. If there's going to be a gap between when UI ends and when you can start disability (which might not be until May), you'll want to plan for that financially. Some people in similar situations have had to find temporary part-time work to bridge that gap, but obviously that depends on your pregnancy and what your doctor advises. Also, keep all your documentation organized - EDD will want to see everything is properly timed and there's no overlap between the different benefit types.

I went through this exact transition last year and wanted to share a few things that might help! First, regarding the wage requirements - they are similar to UI but use a different base period, so even if you qualified for UI, double-check your eligibility for disability. Second, I found it really helpful to create a timeline working backwards from my due date to figure out exactly when to stop UI and file for disability. One thing that caught me off guard was that there can be a processing delay of 2-3 weeks for the first disability payment, so budget for that gap. Also, make sure your doctor is familiar with the DE2501F form - some aren't used to filling out the medical certification section. I ended up having to go back twice because they didn't complete it properly the first time. The good news is that once you're in the system, the transition from disability to PFL is much smoother. Keep copies of everything and don't hesitate to follow up if payments seem delayed!

lol welcome to parenthood. where the rules are made up and the timelines don't matter 🤡

This is exactly why I always tell people to start documenting from day one. I went through a similar nightmare with my disability claim - took 6 months and countless hours on the phone. One thing that really helped was sending a certified letter to their appeals department even though I hadn't been officially denied yet. Sometimes that gets you moved to a different queue. Also, if you're on any parent Facebook groups in your area, post there too - I've seen people find others who work at EDD offices and can give you inside tips on the best times to call. Hang in there, you'll get through this! 💪

Will do! I'm meeting with him tomorrow morning. I've already started filling out the PFL application for caregiving benefits and my wife's doctor is helping with the medical certification. Feeling much more confident now that I understand my options better. Thanks everyone for the support and information!

Best of luck tomorrow! You're doing the right thing by standing up for your family. Just remember - you're not asking for a favor, you're exercising your legal rights. If your boss gives you pushback, stay calm and stick to the facts about CFRA and PFL. Document the conversation in writing afterward too. Your wife and baby are lucky to have someone who's willing to fight for them. Keep us posted on how it goes!

It's a delicate situation for sure. You could approach it as a collaborative conversation rather than a demand - something like \

Congratulations on your pregnancy! I went through something similar two years ago as a freelance graphic designer. Here's what I learned that might help: Since you're already 8 weeks along, the EDD Elective Coverage won't work for this pregnancy due to the 6-month waiting period. BUT - definitely still apply for it now for future coverage. It's been a lifesaver for me since then for other medical issues. A few other things to explore immediately: - Contact your local Women, Infants & Children (WIC) office - they sometimes have resources or can point you to emergency assistance programs - Look into California's State Disability Insurance if you've had ANY W-2 income in the past 5 quarters (even part-time work counts) - Check if you qualify for Medi-Cal pregnancy coverage - income limits are higher when you're pregnant - Some counties have their own paid leave pilot programs that might have different eligibility Also, start documenting everything about your work arrangement NOW. Keep all contracts, invoices, emails about work expectations. As others mentioned, if there's any chance you're misclassified, that could open up regular SDI/PFL benefits. Don't panic - there are more options than it seems at first! Feel free to DM me if you want to chat more about navigating this as a freelancer.