Since you mentioned you're expecting in March 2025, I wanted to add one more thing: California expanded PFL benefits from 8 weeks to 10 weeks starting January 2025. If you do decide to apply later, you'd be eligible for the expanded benefit period. Just FYI!

Hey Ravi! Just wanted to chime in as someone who went through this decision last year. You're absolutely right that you don't have to file for PFL - it's completely optional. I ended up taking my full 12 weeks of bonding leave through my company's policy without filing for state benefits, and it was totally fine. One thing I'd suggest is getting your HR's policies in writing so you're crystal clear on what documentation they need for job protection vs. what EDD would need if you changed your mind later. Also, congrats on the upcoming arrival! March babies are the best (totally not biased as a March baby myself 😊). You sound like you've really thought this through and have your finances sorted - trust your instincts!

btw make sure u don't file ur claim BEFORE ur first day off!! that always causes problems!! wait till ur actually on leave then file it

Hey Sarah! I just went through something similar earlier this year - had to change my PFL start date from planned to immediate due to unexpected childcare issues. The good news is that EDD really doesn't care about your employer's feelings or convenience, they only care about whether you qualify for the benefit and have your paperwork in order. Since you already have your birth certificate submitted and you're within the bonding window (baby born in June), you should be totally fine. The key things are: 1) Make sure you and your employer report the same actual start date on all forms, 2) Don't file your claim until after you've actually started your leave, and 3) Keep documentation of HR approving the date change. I had zero issues with my payments even though I changed my date with literally one day notice. Your employer might be annoyed but that's their problem, not EDD's! You're entitled to this benefit and sometimes life happens. Don't stress too much about it - focus on your family and let the system work as it's supposed to.

Ive been dealing with this for 6 months now. its a nightmare. dont let them ghost you keep calling!!!

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! Filed my PFL claim 3 weeks ago and still nothing. The waiting is so stressful, especially when you really need that income. I tried calling a few times but keep getting disconnected after waiting on hold forever. Has anyone had luck getting through during specific times of day? Maybe early morning or late afternoon? Really hoping we both get some movement on our claims soon! 🤞

am i the only 1 who thinks its ridiculous we only get 8 weeks? other countries get way more time with their babies 😤

Just a heads up, sometimes the system glitches and shows your claim as inactive even when it's not. If that happens, don't panic! Just call and they can usually sort it out pretty quick.

I'm going through EXACTLY the same thing right now! Started leave on 1/3, using sick time for these first two weeks, and was worried about the timing. I talked to my doctor's office yesterday and they said as long as they submit their portion of the medical certification within 49 days of your first day off, you're good. Have you already had your doctor complete their portion of the claim?

To follow up on the earlier advice - after you file your SDI claim online, EDD will send you a notice with your Weekly Benefit Amount calculation. When you get your first certification form (either online or by mail depending on how you set up your account), that's when you'll need to report the sick/vacation pay you received after Jan 8th. Just be very accurate with the dates and amounts. This same process applies when you transition to baby bonding PFL later. The key thing to remember is that wage reporting is date-based - you report wages for the specific certification period they're asking about, regardless of when the money actually hit your bank account.