Just wanted to add some clarification about why this happens: - For birth mothers: You transition from SDI (State Disability Insurance) pregnancy claim to PFL baby bonding. The system links these because they're related to the same pregnancy/birth event. - For non-birth parents: You only qualify for PFL baby bonding (not SDI), so each period is treated as a separate claim event in their system. It's confusing but actually works correctly once you understand the distinction. Just have your husband complete the DE2508 form again and make sure to note the previous claim period when asked.

I'm dealing with this exact same issue right now! My partner took his first 4 weeks of bonding leave in January and we're trying to file for his remaining weeks. His EDD account shows absolutely nothing from his previous claim, which had us panicking that something went wrong. Reading through everyone's responses is such a relief - sounds like this is totally normal for non-birth parents. We were worried we'd have to start from scratch and potentially lose out on the remaining time. Going to have him file a new claim today and make sure to check that box about previous leave for the same child. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences! This community is a lifesaver when the EDD system is so confusing.

hi i have a question im getting disability for pregnancy now but my baby isnt born yet. do i need to wait to apply for baby bonding or can i do it now?

Just wanted to add - if you're worried about the payment gap, you can also reach out to your local Assembly member's office! They have EDD liaisons who can sometimes expedite cases or at least get you a real person to talk to faster than calling the main number. I had to do this when my PFL got stuck in processing for over 3 weeks and they were able to get it moving within 48 hours. It's worth a shot if you're the primary income earner and can't afford delays. Also, make sure you have all your documents ready (birth certificate, medical release form, etc.) because they'll ask for everything again even though you already provided it for disability.

Anyone else feel like we need a complete overhaul of the entire PFL system? 🤔 It's 2023, why is this still so complicated?

Hey OP, just a heads up - there was a recent change in how they process date corrections. Make sure you mention 'Form DE 2501F' when you call. It's the new form for date adjustments.

Update from OP? Did any of these solutions work for you? I'm always curious about which fix actually solves these EDD card issues since they're so common with baby bonding payments.

This is such a common issue that it's really frustrating EDD and Bank of America don't make the activation process clearer! I went through something similar with my disability payments last year. What worked for me was a combination of things - completing the hidden identity verification step (like @Ezra Collins mentioned), setting up the separate ATM PIN, AND waiting the full 48 hours. One thing I'd add is to screenshot everything in your app showing the available balance and any error messages you get. If you end up having to call customer service multiple times, having that documentation helps prove the issue isn't on your end. Also, once you do get access, consider setting up automatic transfers to your regular bank account for future payments so you don't have to deal with this again. So glad you got it sorted out!

Anyone else feel like they need a law degree to understand all this PFL stuff? 🤯 Why do they make it so complicated?

Hey @CosmicCadet! I just went through the PFL process a few months ago and it's definitely doable once you know the steps. Here are some additional tips that helped me: • Submit everything online if possible - it's faster than mailing • Keep your confirmation numbers for everything you submit • If your doctor's office is slow with paperwork, give them a heads up early about what they'll need to fill out • The benefit amount is about 60-70% of your wages, so plan your budget accordingly • You can start the process before you actually need to take leave The whole thing took me about 2.5 weeks from submission to first payment. Don't let the horror stories scare you - most claims go through just fine! Good luck! 🍀