I'm an ex-EDD employee (don't hate me lol). Here's some insider advice: - The best time to call is Tuesday-Thursday, avoid Mondays and Fridays - If you get through to anyone, even if it's the wrong department, ask them to transfer you instead of hanging up - Be super nice to the person who answers, they deal with angry people all day and are more likely to go the extra mile if you're kind - Have all your info ready: claim number, dates, any correspondence you've received - If all else fails, request a callback. It might take a while, but they do get to them eventually Hope this helps someone!

I went through something similar last year with my PFL claim. What finally worked for me was using the "Contact EDD" form on their website multiple times - I submitted it every few days with my case details. It took about 2 weeks, but someone eventually called me back. Also, try calling the general EDD number (1-800-300-5616) and pressing 1 for English, then 2 for employer, then 4 for other - sometimes that gets you to a different queue that's less busy. Hang in there, it's frustrating but you'll get through eventually! 💪

Just a heads up, I've heard they've been really backed up lately due to staff shortages. Might explain why you're getting conflicting info. Hang in there!

Wait, they asked for your doctor's diploma and license ID? That seems really unusual for a PFL claim. Normally they just need medical certification from your doctor, not their credentials. Are you sure you're dealing with the right department? This sounds like it might be a different type of claim or verification process. I'd double-check that you're actually filing for paid family leave and not something else, because this doesn't sound right to me.

Pro tip: if you need to call, try using a landline if possible. For some reason, I've had better luck getting through that way. Also, Tuesdays and Wednesdays seem to be less busy. Good luck!

Your numbers definitely look normal! I had a similar breakdown when I was on SDI last year. One thing that helped me was keeping track of my certification dates - make sure you're submitting those on time every two weeks or your payments can get delayed. Also, if you're having trouble reaching the right department, try calling the SDI line specifically at 1-800-480-3287. It's different from the regular unemployment line and usually has shorter wait times. Hope this helps!

To answer your follow-up question - yes, both parents can take bonding leave simultaneously! Each eligible parent gets their own 8 weeks of PFL bonding benefits, and you can overlap if you choose to. There's no requirement to take them sequentially. Many families choose to have some overlap in the beginning when having an extra set of hands is most helpful, and then stagger the remaining time to extend the total period a parent is home with the baby. Just remember that you both need to file separate claims. Your wife would transition from her pregnancy disability (if she takes that) to her bonding time, while you would transition from caregiving to your bonding time.

Just wanted to add one more tip from my experience - make sure you keep copies of EVERYTHING you submit to EDD. I had to resubmit my wife's medical certification twice because they claimed they never received it the first time. Also, if you're planning to breastfeed/pump, you might want to look into whether your employer has lactation accommodation requirements under CA law - it's separate from PFL but good to know about for when you return to work. The whole process can feel overwhelming but you've got this! Congratulations on your upcoming addition to the family! 💕

I've heard rumors that they're updating the entire system soon. Might be why things are extra glitchy lately. Hang in there!

I've been dealing with similar login issues for weeks now! What finally worked for me was using an incognito/private browsing window and making sure JavaScript was enabled. Also, if you're using any ad blockers or privacy extensions, try disabling them temporarily - they sometimes interfere with the site's functionality. The EDD website is notoriously finicky with certain browser settings. Good luck getting it sorted out!