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To summarize for the original poster: 1. Stop certifying for UI right before starting SDI (ideally no gap, but definitely no overlap) 2. You don't need to formally close your UI claim 3. Submit your DE2501 for pregnancy disability with doctor certification 4. After delivery, you'll file DE2508 for baby bonding PFL 5. Keep documentation of all transition dates 6. Make sure you know your login info for both UI Online and SDI Online accounts And don't stress too much - this is a common transition that many pregnant workers navigate successfully!
One thing I'd add - if you're working part-time with variable hours, make sure your doctor is aware of this when they fill out the disability certification. Sometimes doctors will put an earlier disability start date if they know you're doing physical work, even if it's just part-time. Also, keep track of any work hours you have between now and when you start disability - you'll need to report those earnings on your final UI certification. The transition can feel overwhelming but you're asking the right questions early, which puts you ahead of the game!
This is such a good point about the doctor being aware of your work situation! I hadn't thought about how my variable part-time hours might affect when my doctor recommends starting disability. Since I'm doing some physical tasks at work (even though it's not full-time), should I mention specific job duties to my doctor when we discuss the disability start date? I want to make sure I'm not putting myself or the baby at risk by working too close to my due date.
Does anyone know if theres a maximum amount you can receive on PFL? I make decent money and I'm worried about taking a big pay cut if I need to use it.
Yeah, there's usually a cap. In my state, it's about 60-70% of your wages up to a certain amount per week. But it varies, so check your local rules.
@Arjun Kurti Since you started in November, you should definitely check your earnings history from any previous jobs too! California PFL looks at your earnings in the base period (usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters). If you had another job before November, those earnings might help you qualify even if your current job hours alone aren't enough. You can check your earnings online through the EDD website - they should have all your reported wages on file. Also, make sure to apply as soon as you know you'll need the leave, since there can be processing delays. Good luck! 🤞
This is such valuable advice! I didn't know about the base period calculation - that's really helpful to understand. Quick question though: when you say "first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters," does that mean they skip the most recent quarter? I'm trying to figure out which of my previous job earnings would actually count since I've had a few different positions over the past year.
My cousins' daughter moved to Florida after maternity leave and tried to get unemployment but got denied because they said she wasnt available for CA work. Maybe it depends on who reviews your claim? The system is so inconsistant!!!
The key is how you explain your situation. If you say you're unavailable for CA work because you prefer to work elsewhere, that's a denial. But if you explain you had to move due to spouse's employment (good cause), AND you're available for work in your new location, that should be approved. If denied, appeal immediately and cite the relevant EDD policy about spousal relocation as good cause.
As someone who recently went through a similar transition, I wanted to share some additional perspective. When I moved from California to Texas after my maternity leave, I was initially nervous about the unemployment process, but it worked out smoothly once I understood the steps. A few things that helped me: - Document EVERYTHING about your husband's job offer and your move - dates, salary info, start date, etc. EDD may request this later - Start researching childcare options in NC now so you can honestly say you're "able and available" for work when you certify - Consider reaching out to NC school districts before you move - many are hiring for fall and some might be willing to do virtual interviews The interstate unemployment system is actually designed for situations like yours. California wants to help people who leave for legitimate reasons (like spousal relocation), not penalize them. Just be completely honest in your application about why you're leaving and where you'll be looking for work. Good luck with the move! Having a newborn during a cross-country relocation is stressful enough without worrying about benefits.
when i had my baby in 2024 it took like 3 weeks so 6 weeks seems way too long honestly
That's what I was thinking! Everyone I know got their baby bonding approved much faster.
I finally got through yesterday! Turns out they needed verification from my employer about my leave status, but the request was sent to an old HR email address we don't use anymore. The agent resent the request to the correct email and said once they hear back, my claim should be processed within 48 hours. And yes, they'll backpay from my original filing date!
That's such a relief! I'm so glad you finally got through and figured out what the hold-up was. It's crazy that they sent the employer verification to the wrong email and didn't bother to follow up when they didn't hear back. The EDD system really needs better communication protocols. Hope you get your backpay soon!
Leila Haddad
Just a heads up, they recently changed some of the eligibility requirements. Make sure you check the latest info on the EDD website!
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Zara Perez
Thanks for starting this thread Paolo! I'm in a similar situation and this is already super helpful. One thing I'd add is to make sure you have your Social Security number, employment info, and details about why you need the leave ready when you fill out the form. Also, if you're caring for a family member, you'll need their info too. The EDD website has a pretty good checklist of required documents - definitely worth checking out before you start the application process.
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