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Ugh, I feel your pain. I'm in the same boat with SDI. These government systems are like trying to nail jello to a wall 🤦♂️
I went through something similar with my PFL claim last year. One thing that helped me was requesting a detailed explanation of the denial in writing. Sometimes there are specific issues like missing documentation or eligibility periods that aren't obvious from the online system. Also, if you're within the 8-week maximum for bonding leave, you might want to check if there's a gap in your claim dates that's causing the system to treat it as a separate claim rather than a continuation. The EDD customer service is rough, but if you can get through, ask them to check your "claim history" - sometimes there are backend issues that only they can see and fix.
Hey, quick question - was it a paper check or the EDD debit card? If it's the card, you might be able to just request a new one without going through the whole replacement check process.
Oh man, I feel your pain! I did something similar with my unemployment check a few months ago - threw it out with a bunch of junk mail. The good news is that EDD can definitely help you out with a replacement. When I called, they put a stop payment on the original check and issued a new one within about 2 weeks. The key is being persistent with calling since their phone lines are always swamped. Try calling right when they open at 8am - that's when I had the most luck getting through. Also, have your Social Security number and claim details ready when you call. You got this! 💪
btw when u do get thru make sure u ask them to EXPEDITE the payment. they can do special processing if ur experiencing financial hardship. don't let them tell u otherwise!
I'm going through almost the exact same situation right now! Filed my PFL claim in early January for baby bonding and it's been stuck in "pending processing" for weeks. Got the award letter showing my benefit amounts but nothing online matches up. It's so reassuring to see I'm not the only one dealing with this nightmare. Reading through all these responses, it sounds like the year-end crossing issue might be what's affecting both of us since my leave also started in late December. I'm definitely going to try the 8am calling strategy and the disability line trick that @Kolton Murphy mentioned. Sofia, please keep us updated on what works for you - I'll do the same! We shouldn't have to be financial detectives just to get our rightful benefits. The stress of not knowing when (or if) payments will come while trying to care for a new baby is just awful.
Pro tip: Set up text alerts with your bank so you know the second that sweet, sweet government money hits your account. 💰
Thanks for sharing your experience, Ruby! I'm currently going through the PFL application process myself and this thread is super helpful. One thing I'd add - make sure to keep checking your online EDD account regularly. Sometimes there are updates or requests for additional info that you might miss if you're only waiting for mail. Also, if you haven't already, consider signing up for direct deposit if possible - it's usually faster than waiting for the debit card to arrive in the mail. Best of luck with your claim! 🤞
Tate Jensen
UPDATE: I just got approved! Literally 10 minutes ago I received the text that my claim was approved and they'll be sending payment within 24-48 hours. It took exactly 10 business days from when I submitted the application. Sending good vibes that yours follows soon!
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Ev Luca
•Omg that's fantastic news!! Congratulations! You've given me hope - I'm at 9 business days so maybe tomorrow will be my lucky day. Thanks for updating us!
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Mikayla Davison
I'm in almost the exact same situation! Applied for PFL baby bonding on 11/20 after my SDI ended and it's been crickets ever since. Reading through all these responses is both reassuring and terrifying - sounds like anywhere from 3 days to 3 weeks is normal?? That's such a huge range! I've been checking my account obsessively and it just says "pending" with no other info. Haven't received any mail from EDD either. This is also my first baby and I had no idea the transition wouldn't be automatic. Really wish they were more transparent about expected timelines instead of leaving us all in the dark while we're trying to figure out new parent life AND finances. @Ev Luca - crossing my fingers we both hear something soon! The financial stress on top of everything else is just brutal.
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