Quick question - does anyone know if the family bonding time has to be taken all at once, or can you split it up?

Just wanted to add some clarity based on my recent experience - I successfully used PFL for family bonding after leaving my job, but the key was timing. I filed my claim while still employed (about 2 weeks before my last day) and made sure to indicate that I was taking bonding leave. The EDD approved it because I was employed when the claim started, even though I quit shortly after. The important thing is that you need to show wage loss due to bonding time, not due to quitting. So if you're planning to quit anyway, definitely file your claim first while you're still working. Also, keep in mind you can take the bonding time intermittently throughout the first year - doesn't have to be all at once. Hope this helps!

I work in IT (not for EDD tho) and Error E311 sounds like a database mismatch issue. It's probably on their end, not yours. Keep calling and escalate to a supervisor if you can. Don't let them give you the runaround.

I've dealt with E311 errors before - super frustrating! One thing that worked for me was making sure my address exactly matched what's on file with the Social Security Administration. Even something as small as "Street" vs "St" can cause issues. Also, if you've moved recently, EDD might still have your old address on file. You can try updating your address through their online portal first, then wait 24-48 hours before trying to submit your PFL application again. The system needs time to sync the changes. Hope this helps!

unpopular opinion: sometimes its easier to just let the claims overlap and deal with slightly lower benefits than go thru the hassle of changing dates. been down this road and the stress wasnt worth it for me ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Just went through this exact same situation last month! The key is to be super specific about which claim you want adjusted and why. When I called, I explained that the overlap was preventing me from getting my full benefits and asked them to modify the start date on my FMLA claim to begin after my SDI ended. Make sure you have both claim numbers handy and be prepared to explain the timeline clearly. Also, don't hang up until they confirm the changes in the system - I made that mistake the first time and had to call back again. You got this! 💪

I feel your pain! Just went through this exact situation last month. Here's what worked for me: I actually had success with the Assembly member's office constituent services - they have a direct line to EDD and can often resolve account issues within a few days. You can find your Assembly member at findyourrep.legislature.ca.gov and call their local office. They helped me get my online access restored without having to drive anywhere. That said, if you do decide to go to Fresno, definitely bring everything everyone mentioned above, plus any emails or confirmation numbers from previous attempts to file. The staff there are actually pretty helpful with account access issues even if they can't process the PFL claim directly. Also try going on a Wednesday or Thursday - seems less crowded than Mondays/Fridays from what I've heard. Good luck mama, you'll get through this!

I'm so sorry you're going through this! I went through a similar nightmare with my PFL claim last year. One thing that really helped me was contacting my state senator's office (not just Assembly member) - they have caseworkers specifically for EDD issues and can often get things resolved faster than the Assembly offices since they handle fewer cases. You can find yours at senate.ca.gov. Also, before you make the drive, try the EDD's live chat feature during off-peak hours (like 7-8am or after 4pm) - it's hidden on their website but sometimes connects you faster than the phone lines. If you do end up going to Fresno, definitely bring your phone with screenshots of all the error messages you're getting, plus any confirmation emails from when you first tried to file. They can use those to look up what's blocking your account. The wait is brutal but the staff there can usually fix login issues same-day. You've got this mama! 💪

Thank you all SO MUCH for your helpful responses. I'm feeling much better about our situation now. My husband is going to apply for UI right after his last day, and then switch to PFL once our baby arrives. We'll be super careful about stopping the UI certifications properly before starting PFL. I'm also going to look into my own SDI benefits as someone pointed out - I hadn't even thought about that part yet (pregnancy brain is real!). This community has been an absolute lifesaver during such a stressful time. Will update once we get through this process in case it helps anyone else!

Congratulations on your upcoming arrival! Just wanted to add one more thing that might be helpful - make sure your husband keeps detailed records of all his job applications during this whole process. When he transitions back to UI after PFL, EDD may ask for proof that he was actively seeking work before the baby was born, and they'll definitely require it once he resumes UI benefits. Also, if he hasn't already, he should sign up for CalJOBS (the state job portal) as it integrates with the UI system and can help streamline the work search documentation. Having everything organized will make the transitions smoother. Wishing you both the best with your new baby and hoping he finds something soon! The job market is tough right now but project management skills are definitely in demand.