Have you tried faxing the birth certificate? I know it sounds like we're back in 1995, but sometimes the old school methods work when the website is being a pain.

Have you tried mailing the documents directly to EDD? I know it sounds old-fashioned, but when I had upload issues with my PFL claim, I sent everything certified mail with return receipt. It took a bit longer to process, but at least I knew they received it. The address should be on your original claim paperwork. Also, make sure to include your claim number on every page of the documents you send!

oof, 2 months is rough. i waited 6 weeks for mine and thought THAT was bad. the whole system needs an overhaul fr

I'm going through the exact same thing right now - 10 weeks and counting with no payments. It's absolutely ridiculous how broken this system is. I've tried everything mentioned here: calling (never get through), checking online portal (just says "pending"), even sent written requests. The stress of not knowing when/if you'll get paid while dealing with family issues is just brutal. Has anyone had luck with filing a complaint with the state ombudsman? I'm at my wit's end here.

One more thing I forgot to mention - once you do apply after the birth, you'll have a 7-day unpaid waiting period before benefits start. Make sure you factor that into your financial planning. Also, PFL only pays about 60-70% of your salary (depending on your income level), up to a maximum weekly benefit amount. Just so you're prepared financially.

Hey Miguel! Congrats on your upcoming arrival! I went through this exact same process last year when our daughter was born. Everyone's advice here is spot-on - you definitely can't apply before birth, but here's what I wish someone had told me: 1. Set up your SDI Online account NOW (like others mentioned) - do it while you're not sleep deprived! 2. Have a "birth certificate request" plan ready - some hospitals are faster than others at processing these 3. Take screenshots of EVERYTHING when you do apply - seriously, their system glitches and it helps to have proof of what you submitted 4. Consider doing a "practice run" of the application process using the online forms (you can start but not submit) so you know exactly what info you'll need Also, pro tip: if your company has decent paternal leave policies, check if they stack with PFL or if you need to coordinate timing. Some companies will supplement the difference between PFL payments and your full salary, which is awesome if available. The 12-month window gives you flexibility, but apply ASAP after birth for sure. Good luck with everything!

Just wanted to jump in here as someone who's been dealing with this nightmare too! I've been trying to reach EDD for my PFL claim for about 3 weeks now and it's absolutely maddening. Reading through all these comments makes me feel both better (I'm not alone!) and worse (this is clearly a systemic issue). I've tried the usual suspects - calling first thing in the morning, different times throughout the day, online portal, emails - you name it. The most frustrating part is that automated message telling you to use the website when the website doesn't actually help with specific claim issues! I'm seriously considering trying that Claimyr service that Emma mentioned, even though $20 feels steep. At this point, I've probably spent 20+ hours on hold or trying to get through, so maybe it's worth it? Has anyone else here actually used it successfully? Also going to give the fax method a shot - never thought I'd be hunting down a fax machine in 2024 but here we are! 📠 Thanks to everyone sharing their experiences and tips. It really helps to know we're all fighting the same battle together. Will definitely update if I manage to breakthrough!

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! Been trying to reach someone about my PFL claim for over a week with zero success. It's honestly mind-boggling how difficult they make it to get basic help. I've been reading through all the suggestions here and I'm planning to try the 8:01 AM sharp calling strategy tomorrow - seems like that's worked for a few people. Also considering the Claimyr service even though paying for something that should be free feels wrong. But at this point, my sanity is worth $20! Thanks for posting this Connor, it's weirdly comforting to know I'm not the only one dealing with this bureaucratic maze. Will definitely share if I have any breakthrough moments! 🤞

Just want to add some practical advice as someone who works with the EDD system regularly. When you do get online access, immediately set up text/email notifications for your account. This way you'll know right away if there's an issue with your claim or if a payment is processed, without having to constantly log in to check. Also, start your PFL claim about 1-2 weeks before you want the benefits to begin. There's often a delay in processing the transition from disability to baby bonding, and this timing helps minimize gaps in payment.

Just went through this exact situation last month! I had to file on paper initially because of accent marks in my name that the system couldn't process. What worked for me was calling the EDD disability line (not the UI line) at 1-800-480-3287 early in the morning around 8:05 AM right when they open. Much better success rate than calling later in the day. The rep was able to create my online account over the phone and link it to my existing paper claim within about 10 minutes once I got through. Now I can see all my payment history and status updates online. One heads up though - make sure you have your social security number, claim confirmation number from your paper filing, and the exact dates you filed ready when you call. They'll need all of that to verify your identity and set up the account.