Just make sure you're continuing to certify on time even if you mail it in!! My friend didn't certify for a couple weeks while trying to fix her account issue and they closed her whole claim! Had to start the process all over again. The EDD system is SO unforgiving about deadlines.

One more important thing I forgot to mention - when mailing certifications, make sure you use black or blue ink (not pencil), sign the form, and mail it to the correct processing center listed on your paperwork. Different claim types go to different addresses. Also, keep certifying every two weeks regardless of whether you've received payment for previous periods. Missing a certification period can cause significant delays even with a valid reason.

When I went through this transition from pregnancy disability to baby bonding last year, I found it helpful to reference specific EDD publications during my calls. If you mention Form DE2501FP and specifically say you're filing a "Paid Family Leave claim to bond with your new child following a pregnancy-related disability claim," the representatives usually understand better what you need. The rep who told you that you need to exhaust Medi-Cal was completely confused - possibly thinking about State Disability Insurance (SDI) and private disability insurance coordination, which is a different thing entirely. Keep trying and be very specific about what you're requesting.

Quick update question - have you been able to reach another representative yet? Did they correct this misinformation?

One more thing to note - make sure you're regularly checking both your physical mail and your online portal. EDD often sends notices through only one method, not both. If they need additional information regarding Part C, they might mail you a request without posting it to your online account. This happens frequently with baby bonding claims where the care recipient is a minor child.

UPDATE: I finally got through to EDD today using the Claimyr service that someone recommended here (definitely worth it after trying to call on my own for days). The agent confirmed they received my Part C form but said it was missing my son's birthdate in section 2. I'm uploading the corrected form now and she said to expect processing within 5-7 business days. Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions! What a relief to finally get an answer.

hey just checking in...did u hear anything back yet?? im in a similar boat and wondering how long ur waiting this time

It's been 9 days and still shows

Just to add a bit more information - the process should work like this: 1. Your pregnancy disability claim (SDI) ends on your doctor-certified date 2. EDD closes out that claim in their system (1-3 business days) 3. The system automatically generates a PFL application email 4. You complete the PFL application for baby bonding 5. EDD processes your PFL claim (typically 5-7 business days) 6. Your first PFL payment is issued For 2025, the weekly benefit amount for your PFL should be the same as what you received for SDI (60-70% of your wages, depending on your income level). And as I mentioned, payments can be retroactive to avoid gaps in coverage. If by some chance you don't receive the email at all, you can also initiate a PFL claim by calling EDD directly or using their online portal under the "New Claim" option. But it's generally easier to use the email link when it arrives.

congrats on your baby! i remember being sooo confused by all this edd stuff with my first. try not to stress too much (easier said than done i know lol). the money always comes eventually even if edd makes it complicated.