I'm currently going through this same frustrating issue right now! Just finished my pregnancy disability last week and trying to file for PFL, but keep getting that "cannot verify banking information" error even though my direct deposit worked perfectly for SDI. Reading through everyone's experiences here is both helpful and infuriating - it's crazy that this is such a widespread known problem that EDD just hasn't bothered to fix. I'm going to try calling that 1-800-480-3287 number that @Carter Holmes mentioned at 8 AM sharp tomorrow. If that doesn't work out, I might have to bite the bullet and use the Claimyr service since sitting on hold for hours with a 2-week-old doesn't sound feasible. Thank you all for sharing your solutions - it's such a relief to know I'm not alone in dealing with this technical nightmare during an already stressful time!

This is such a frustrating but unfortunately common issue! I'm dealing with the exact same banking verification error right now after transitioning from pregnancy disability to PFL. It's so stressful when you're already sleep-deprived with a newborn and need those payments to come through. Reading everyone's experiences here has been incredibly helpful - it's both reassuring to know this isn't just me and infuriating to see how widespread this known glitch is. I'm definitely going to try calling EDD at 8 AM using that number @Carter Holmes shared, and if that doesn't work, the Claimyr service sounds like it might be worth the cost to avoid hours on hold with a crying baby. Thanks to everyone who shared their solutions - this community is such a lifesaver during these stressful transitions!

I went through this exact situation in 2023! I was on disability/PFL from my main job as a physical therapist (couldn't do patient transfers after my C-section) but was able to continue my side telehealth consultations from home. Here's what worked for me: Get your doctor to write a very specific note distinguishing between your job duties. Mine wrote "Patient is unable to perform essential functions of physical therapy including patient transfers, prolonged standing, and lifting >10lbs due to post-surgical restrictions. Patient is medically cleared for sedentary computer-based work up to 15 hours per week." Report EVERYTHING on your certifications - even if you only work 2 hours that week, report it. EDD has a formula where they reduce your benefits based on part-time earnings, but you still come out ahead financially. For me, working 8-10 hours/week reduced my weekly benefit by about 30%, but the combined income was still more than benefits alone. The transition from disability to PFL was seamless - same reporting requirements. Just make sure your doctor's clearance notes specify you're still unable to perform your main job duties during the PFL period too. Document everything and don't stress too much - this is actually a pretty common situation for people with multiple employers!

I'm in a very similar situation right now - on maternity leave from my full-time job as a teacher (can't handle the physical demands of being on my feet all day with kindergarteners) but considering doing some online tutoring from home. Reading through everyone's experiences here has been SO helpful! Based on what I'm seeing, the key takeaways seem to be: 1) Get very specific medical documentation that distinguishes between your job duties, 2) Report absolutely everything on your certifications, and 3) Keep meticulous records of all part-time work and earnings. I'm curious - for those who successfully did this, did you give EDD a heads up before starting the part-time work, or did you just start reporting it on your next certification? I want to be as transparent as possible but also don't want to create unnecessary complications if it's not required to notify them in advance. Also wondering if anyone has tips for the best time to call EDD to actually get through to someone? I've been trying for days and either get busy signals or disconnected after waiting on hold for hours.

I'm in the exact same boat! Filed my PFL paperwork 3 weeks ago and haven't heard a peep from them. It's so stressful when you're counting on those benefits. I've been trying the phone number daily but keep getting the "call volume is too high" message. Really considering trying that in-person visit someone mentioned - might be worth the drive if it actually gets results. Hang in there Connor, sounds like we're all dealing with the same broken system right now.

Two weeks feels like forever when you're waiting for benefits you need! I went through something similar earlier this year - submitted my PFL paperwork and didn't hear back for almost 3 weeks. What finally worked for me was a combination of things: I called the 1-877-238-4373 number every single morning at exactly 8:01 AM (set an alarm!), and I also sent a follow-up fax with copies of everything I'd already submitted plus a cover letter explaining the delay. The fax number is on their website. I know it's frustrating but don't lose hope - they're just incredibly backed up. Your benefits will come through, it's just a matter of persistence. Keep checking your online account too, sometimes updates show up there before you get any other notification.

Here's a detailed breakdown of what to expect when setting up an offset for benefits overpayment: • First, gather all relevant documents: overpayment notice, past benefit statements, and any correspondence with EDD. • When you call, you'll need to provide your Social Security number and confirm your identity. • The rep will explain the reason for the overpayment and the total amount owed. • You can then discuss repayment options. An offset means they'll reduce your future benefits to recoup the overpayment. • You have the right to negotiate the amount of the offset. They can't take more than 25% of your weekly benefit. • If you disagree with the overpayment, you can request an appeal or apply for a waiver. • Make sure to get a confirmation number or case number for your offset agreement. • Ask for a written statement of the agreement to be mailed to you. Remember, stay calm and polite, but be firm about your rights and needs. Good luck!

One thing I'd add - if you're currently receiving benefits and they want to start the offset immediately, you can ask for a hardship deferral if the reduced payments would cause financial distress. I had to do this when my offset would have dropped my weekly benefit below what I needed for rent. They approved a temporary delay while I got my finances sorted. It's not guaranteed, but worth asking about if you're in a tight spot financially.

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I'm so glad you found out about this in time! I went through something similar last year - I had no idea PFL bonding leave was separate from disability until a coworker mentioned it when my baby was 10 months old. I was able to file retroactively and got approved, but it took about 6 weeks to process since it was a late claim. One thing that really helped my case was getting a letter from my doctor's office confirming the dates of my disability period, which clearly showed when I would have been eligible to start PFL. Also, if you have any emails or documentation showing that your HR department only gave you SDI paperwork without mentioning PFL, include that too - it really strengthens your case that you weren't properly informed. The whole system is so confusing and poorly communicated. You shouldn't have to be a benefits expert just to get what you're entitled to! Rooting for you - hope you get every penny you deserve!