Protip: if u can, apply before u actually need the leave to start. gives em more time to process b4 ur financially screwed

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! Filed my PFL claim 5 weeks ago and still showing "pending" status. It's so stressful not knowing when the money will come through, especially when you're already dealing with family care responsibilities. I've been checking the online portal obsessively but no updates. Really hoping things move faster for both of us soon! 🤞

oh that makes sense, didnt realize there was waiting periods for company benefits

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this during what should be a special bonding time with your baby. This sounds like a really stressful situation, but everyone here has given you excellent advice about taking PFL first before unemployment. One thing I wanted to add - when you do file your PFL claim, make sure to keep copies of everything your employer sent you about the "relocation" and reapplication requirement. If you end up pursuing legal action later, having that documentation showing the timeline (that they notified you of this while you were on protected leave) could be really important. Also, don't let them pressure you into making any quick decisions about reapplying or accepting their terms. You have rights here, and it sounds like they're hoping you'll just quietly go away. Take your time to get proper legal advice before responding to their demands. Hang in there - you've got this! Focus on your baby and your recovery first, and the rest will work itself out.

Just wanted to say good luck OP! The waiting game sucks but hopefully you'll hear back soon.

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! My PFL claim has been stuck on "pending process" for about 2.5 weeks. It's so nerve-wracking not knowing what's happening. I've been checking my online account obsessively but there's literally no updates or messages asking for additional info. From what I'm reading here, it sounds like this is unfortunately pretty normal? Still doesn't make the waiting any easier though. Really hoping we both hear something soon! 🤞

Just to add some reassurance - I received about 6 weeks of backpay all at once when my PFL baby bonding was finally approved. The good news is that once the claim is approved, the payment typically arrives within 24-48 hours via EDD debit card or direct deposit (if you set that up). If it's been more than 4 weeks since he filed and you've heard nothing, I would definitely try to contact EDD to check the status. Sometimes claims get stuck due to simple verification issues that can be quickly resolved once you speak with a representative.

I went through this exact situation with my wife's PFL claim last year! The waiting is absolutely brutal, especially when you're counting on that income. A few things that might help while you wait: 1. Document everything - keep copies of all forms submitted and any confirmation numbers 2. Your husband should definitely keep certifying for benefits even after he returns to work - you can still certify for past weeks 3. The backpay WILL come once approved - we got 7 weeks all at once and it was such a relief Also, since he took time off before the birth, check if his employer has any other leave policies that might cover those January weeks. Some companies have separate parental leave benefits or allow you to use sick time for family bonding. Hang in there - I know the financial stress is overwhelming but the payment will come through! 💙

Plot twist: EDD is actually a time travel agency and they know you worked in an alternate timeline 👽🕰️

Anyone else notice how these issues always seem to pop up right when you're finally getting back on your feet? It's like they wait for the worst possible moment to hit you with this stuff. Stay strong, OP. You got this!