I actually had success getting through to EDD by calling the Spanish language line (even though I don't speak Spanish) - they transferred me to an English speaker and the wait was only about 45 minutes compared to the 3+ hours I was spending on the regular line. Might be worth a try! Also, make sure you have all your documentation ready before you call - they'll want your claim numbers, dates, and be able to explain exactly what happened. I've heard they're more helpful when you come prepared with specific details rather than just saying "I messed up my claim." Good luck mama! 🍀

I went through this exact same nightmare! Here's what finally worked for me: I called EDD at exactly 8:00 AM and asked to speak with a "Tier 2 specialist" - don't let them transfer you to anyone else. Explain that you need to "correct the benefit period dates" due to filing error. The specialist was able to cancel my PFL claim for the first 8 weeks postpartum and retroactively file SDI for that same period. Then I filed a new PFL claim for the remaining weeks. It took about 2-3 weeks to process but I got all the backpay. The key is being super specific about what you need - don't just say you made a mistake. Tell them you accidentally filed PFL during your SDI-eligible recovery period and need the claims adjusted. Stay persistent and document everything! You've got this mama! 💪✨

Just want to chime in as someone who's been through this process twice! The bi-weekly payments are definitely the norm, and I actually found it helpful for budgeting since it spreads out the income over the leave period. One tip I wish someone had told me - if you have any issues with your certification forms not showing up in UI Online (which happened to me once), you can actually call the automated phone line to complete your certification over the phone. The number is 1-866-333-4606. It saved me when the website was down during my certification window. Also, keep screenshots or records of when you complete each certification just in case there are any disputes later. EDD's system isn't perfect and having your own documentation can be a lifesaver!

For anyone still following this thread - I just wanted to add that if you're getting the EDD debit card for your PFL payments, be aware that there are ATM fees if you use machines outside of Bank of America's network. I didn't realize this and got hit with $3-4 fees a couple times before I figured out where the fee-free ATMs were located. You can find participating ATMs on the Bank of America website or use their mobile app. Also, you can transfer money from the debit card to your personal bank account online for free, which is what I ended up doing to avoid the ATM fees altogether. Just thought I'd share since every dollar counts when you're on leave!

I'm dealing with something similar right now and wanted to share what I've learned. After my PFL ended, my psychiatrist helped me file for regular SDI based on postpartum depression and anxiety. The key was having her document specific symptoms that prevent me from working - like panic attacks, inability to concentrate for extended periods, and severe sleep deprivation affecting my judgment. One thing that helped my claim get approved was having my doctor explain how my symptoms could create safety risks at my job (I work with heavy machinery). EDD seems to take workplace safety concerns seriously when evaluating mental health claims. I also recommend starting the application process at least 2 weeks before your PFL ends if possible. There can be processing delays, and you don't want a gap in benefits. My claim took about 3 weeks to get approved, but I got backpay for the waiting period. Hang in there - postpartum anxiety is so hard, but there are options available. Don't let anyone make you feel like you should just "tough it out." Your mental health is just as important as physical health.

I'm going through this exact same situation right now and it's so overwhelming! My baby is 5 months old and also refuses bottles from anyone else. I was able to get approved for additional disability after my PFL ended, but it took some persistence. What really helped was having both my OB and my therapist coordinate on the paperwork. My OB wrote a letter explaining that my postpartum anxiety was severe enough to prevent me from safely returning to work, and my therapist filled out the DE2501 with very specific examples of how my symptoms impact daily functioning - like panic attacks when separated from baby, inability to sleep leading to impaired judgment, and intrusive thoughts that make it unsafe for me to drive or concentrate. I also had to provide documentation from my pediatrician about my baby's feeding difficulties and how this was contributing to my anxiety. EDD seemed to take the whole picture more seriously when they could see it wasn't just "normal" new mom worries. The process took about 4 weeks total, but I did get approved for 8 weeks of regular SDI. Don't give up if they deny you initially - I know several moms who had to appeal but eventually got approved. Your mental health is just as valid as any physical condition. Sending you strength! 💜

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this terrible timing! Getting laid off the exact day your PFL was supposed to start is incredibly stressful, especially with a newborn. I went through a similar situation last year and your plan is absolutely correct. Since you qualified for PFL before the layoff, you're still entitled to those benefits. The key things that saved me were: 1. Getting everything in writing from HR about severance classification (which you're already doing - smart!) 2. Being completely transparent with EDD about the layoff and severance timing 3. Keeping detailed records of every interaction and document Since your HR confirmed it's a "separation agreement" rather than continuation of wages, that should work in your favor based on what others have experienced. But definitely save that email forever - EDD can come back with questions months later. One tip: when you file your PFL claim, use the "additional information" section to briefly explain your situation. Having that context upfront can prevent processing delays. You're being incredibly proactive by asking these questions now instead of figuring it out later. That approach is going to serve you well through this whole process. The 3 months severance + 8 weeks PFL + unemployment gives you a solid runway to properly bond with your baby and then conduct a thoughtful job search. Hang in there - you've got this! And congratulations on your little one! 💕

I'm so sorry you're going through this incredibly stressful situation! Getting laid off on the exact day your PFL was supposed to start is just devastating timing. I actually went through something very similar in late 2023 - got laid off during my PFL period, though thankfully not on day one like you. Your plan is absolutely on the right track! Since you established PFL eligibility before the layoff, you're still entitled to those benefits. A few things that really helped me navigate this: 1. **Document everything obsessively** - That HR email about severance classification is gold, keep multiple copies forever. EDD contacted me 8 months later with random questions and having documentation saved me. 2. **When filing your PFL claim** - Use the "additional comments" section to briefly explain your situation (layoff on PFL start date, severance classification confirmed with HR, etc.). This context helps prevent processing delays. 3. **Create a benefits timeline** - Map out exactly when each benefit period starts/ends. I found this really helped reduce anxiety about the financial unknowns. The "separation agreement" classification sounds very promising based on what others have shared. Just make sure HR can confirm that's exactly how they're reporting it to EDD - sometimes internal language differs from what gets submitted externally. With 3 months severance + 8 weeks PFL + UI eligibility after, you actually have a decent runway. It's not the bonding leave you planned, but you won't fall through the cracks. You're being so smart to ask all these questions upfront! Congratulations on your little one - you've got this! 💕

Just checking in - did your payment arrive today? If not, I'd recommend contacting EDD directly. One other thought - did you perhaps file your final certification early? Sometimes filing slightly early can cause a delay while they verify you didn't return to work before the end of your claim period.

So glad your payment finally came through! This is really helpful info for anyone else going through PFL delays. I'm currently on my 4th week of baby bonding and this thread is making me realize I should probably expect some delays with my final payment too. It's so stressful when you're counting on that money! Thanks for updating us - I was actually wondering how it turned out for you.