Hey, former EDD employee here. Don't stress too much about this mistake. It's pretty common. When you get through to someone, ask them to submit a 'Claim File Update' to correct the application type. Make sure they note it was an honest mistake. Good luck!

Don't panic! I made this exact same mistake last year. Here's what worked for me: I called the EDD PFL line first thing in the morning (around 8:02 AM) and got through after about 45 minutes on hold. The rep was super helpful and explained that they can switch your application type pretty easily if you catch it early. She submitted a correction form on her end and told me to watch for an email confirmation within 3-5 business days. The whole process took maybe 10 minutes once I got someone on the phone. Your benefits won't be affected as long as you get it corrected soon. Hang in there! 💪

Just went through this whole process. My advice? Document EVERYTHING. Every call, every letter, every form you submit. It'll save you so much headache later if there are any issues.

As someone who just went through this process a few months ago, I wanted to add a couple things that really helped me: 1. When filling out the disability begin date, use the date your doctor gives you in writing - don't guess! Mine was different than I expected. 2. For the occupation section, be specific about your actual job duties, not just your title. It can affect your benefit amount. 3. Submit your application as soon as possible - there's usually a waiting period before benefits kick in. Also, @Jamal Wilson - make sure you have your doctor fill out their part of the form completely. That was the biggest delay for me because I had to go back and get missing info. Good luck with everything! 🍀

unpopular opinion: the system is designed to be confusing on purpose. they hope people will give up and not claim benefits. stay strong and don't let them win!

I made a similar mistake on my disability claim a few months ago - accidentally put my injury date as both start and end dates. What helped me was calling early in the morning (like right at 8am when they open) and having ALL my paperwork ready before I called. Make sure you have your Social Security number, claim number, employer info, and the CORRECT dates written down clearly. When you talk to them, be super specific about what the mistake was and what it should be. They'll probably ask for documentation like pay stubs showing your last day worked or a doctor's note with the actual leave dates. The rep I talked to was actually pretty understanding once I explained it clearly. Hang in there - it's fixable, just takes some patience with the system!

UPDATE: The EDD procedure for returning uncashed benefit checks changed last year. You should: 1. Write "VOID" across the check in large letters 2. Complete form DE 2612 (Voluntary Return of Benefit Payments) 3. Mail both to the address on the DE 2612 form via certified mail You can download form DE 2612 from the EDD website or request it when you speak with a representative. This creates a paper trail showing exactly what you returned and why.

I'm a new parent dealing with something similar but from a different angle - my PFL claim was initially approved but then I got a notice saying they're "reviewing" it and all payments have been suspended. Meanwhile I see posts like this where people are getting TOO many payments after appeals. The inconsistency in how EDD handles these cases is mind-boggling. @Miguel - it sounds like you're getting great advice here, especially about contacting a tier 2 specialist and using that DE 2612 form to return the checks properly. One thing I'd add is to screenshot or photocopy everything before you send it back, including the voided checks. I learned this the hard way when dealing with other government agencies - they have a habit of "losing" paperwork. Having visual proof of what you returned and when can save you months of headaches later. Good luck getting this sorted out, and congratulations on your new baby!

Protip: if you can't get through on the phone, try reaching out on Twitter. Sometimes their social media team is more responsive than the actual call center.

I'm dealing with the exact same thing! Applied 5 weeks ago and still stuck on "processing." It's so frustrating not knowing what's happening or if there's an issue with my application. I've tried calling but like everyone else mentioned, can't get through. Thanks for posting this - at least I know I'm not alone in this mess. Going to try some of the suggestions here, especially calling right when they open. This whole system really needs an overhaul 😤