This is why we need serious reform in our benefits system. It's ridiculous that people have to jump through so many hoops just to get what they're entitled to. We should all be writing to our representatives about this!

I'm in a similar boat right now - submitted my PFL claim 2.5 weeks ago and still nothing. It's so stressful when you're counting on that money! I've been trying the early morning call strategy that @Liam mentioned, and while I haven't gotten through yet, I did notice the hold times are shorter around 8:15am vs later in the day. Also, @Dmitry's advice about documenting everything is spot on - I started keeping a spreadsheet of all my call attempts and it's already helped me stay organized. Hang in there, we'll get through this! 💪

Thank you all for the helpful information! I've decided to: 1. Try reaching an EDD representative using Claimyr to get official confirmation about my eligibility 2. Visit our base's family support center to learn about military-specific programs 3. Talk to my employer about whether they offer any additional leave benefits 4. Start budgeting for the possibility of unpaid leave It's disappointing that moving to California so recently might disqualify me from benefits despite contributing, but at least now I have a clearer understanding of how the system works. I'll update this thread if I learn anything that might help others in similar situations!

Good luck with everything! I just wanted to add that if you do end up not qualifying for CA benefits, don't forget to check if your employer offers any short-term disability insurance or if you have any personal policies that might cover maternity leave. Some companies also have their own parental leave policies that are separate from state programs. Also, while you're exploring military family support options, ask about dependent care assistance programs - they sometimes have childcare vouchers or other support for new parents that can help offset the financial impact of unpaid leave. Keep us posted on what you find out!

Just to clarify something important - your daughter won't lose any money by doing this correction. The total maximum benefits remain the same, it's just that disability benefits for recovery from childbirth need to come before baby bonding benefits. In fact, for a c-section, the SDI disability rate might be slightly higher than PFL depending on her income, so fixing this could actually benefit her financially. Also, she should be able to backdate the disability claim to her delivery date. Make sure she indicates June 3rd as the date of disability (date of birth/c-section) on her forms.

I went through something very similar when my son was born 4 weeks early last year. The stress of figuring out the right forms while dealing with a NICU stay and recovery from an emergency c-section was overwhelming. What really helped me was having my husband handle all the EDD calls while I focused on recovering and bonding with our baby. If your daughter is still in those early weeks, maybe you could offer to make the calls for her? EDD representatives are usually willing to speak with family members about the situation, especially when there's a new baby involved. Also, don't let her stress too much - I've seen this exact scenario play out successfully for several other moms in my new parent group. EDD deals with this mix-up constantly and they have processes in place to fix it.

To summarize what everyone has said: 1) Your PFL will continue - it's based on past earnings/contributions 2) You can file for UI after PFL ends 3) Document everything about the termination 4) Contact CRD (formerly DFEH) about potential CFRA violation 5) Consider consulting with an employment attorney I'd also recommend filing for unemployment immediately after your PFL ends (you can actually apply slightly before it ends). The first week is a waiting period anyway (no benefits), so you want to get that process started as soon as possible.

I'm so sorry this happened to you! What a horrible way to treat a new mom. Just wanted to add one more thing that might help - when you do get through to EDD, ask them to put notes in your file about the employment status change. Sometimes different departments don't communicate well, and having it documented that you were terminated while on approved PFL can prevent issues later. Also, if your company offers any severance (even though they probably won't given the circumstances), be careful about signing anything that waives your right to file complaints. A lot of severance agreements include language that prevents you from pursuing legal action. Don't sign anything without having an attorney review it first! You're doing the right thing by fighting this. Companies need to know they can't just dump employees for using their legally protected benefits. Hang in there mama! 💪

congrats on getting thru! my sister had the same problem last year. They never tell you that your claim has an issue - they just let it sit there forever! so frustrating. hope u get ur money soon!

FINAL UPDATE: My claim was approved and I received payment yesterday! It included all back benefits from my disability start date. Such a huge relief. Now I just need to submit my baby bonding (PFL) application and hope that process goes more smoothly. Thanks again to everyone for the advice and support!