One more thing to consider - you can split up your 8 weeks of PFL baby bonding. You don't have to take it all at once. Some dads take 4 weeks right after birth, then save the other 4 weeks for later in the year. Just make sure you use it all within 12 months of the birth. For each separate period, you'll need to file a new claim form.

Just want to add - make sure you understand the waiting period! There's a 7-day waiting period for PFL claims, meaning your first week is unpaid. So if you're planning to take time off, factor that into your budget. Also, if you're planning to split your leave like @Keisha Jackson mentioned, each separate claim period will have its own 7-day waiting period. I learned this the hard way when I took my PFL in two chunks and didn't realize I'd have two unpaid weeks total.

This might sound weird, but have you tried reaching out to EDD on social media? Sometimes companies are more responsive there because it's public. Worth a shot if nothing else is working.

Hey Nina! I actually went through something similar a few months ago. One thing that helped me was trying to reset my password using the "Forgot Password" link with my original email address - sometimes that can unlock the account automatically. Also, if you can find any old paperwork from when you first filed for unemployment or disability, it might have your original login info on it. The EDD keeps better records than we think they do sometimes! Hope this helps and you get it sorted soon! 🙏

lol good luck getting anyone at EDD to pick up the phone. I've been trying for weeks 🤡

@Yuki Ito, I was in a very similar situation when my daughter was born. Here's what worked for me: Document EVERYTHING - get a letter from your pediatrician stating that you need to be the primary caregiver, keep records of childcare searches you've done (showing lack of availability/affordability), and any family circumstances that prevent others from helping. When I called EDD, I emphasized that this was a "compelling family obligation" (thanks to whoever mentioned that term!) and that I was actively seeking work-from-home opportunities. It took about 3 weeks to get approved, but I did get benefits. The key is being persistent and having your documentation ready. Also, consider looking into local childcare assistance programs while you're navigating this - sometimes there are subsidies available that can help you get back to work sooner. Hang in there! 💙

I'm currently going through this process myself - 37 weeks pregnant and recently unemployed due to layoffs. Based on my research and what my doctor told me, definitely go with SDI first! I just submitted my DE2501 form last week and my OB was super helpful in explaining the timeline. She said most doctors are very familiar with the 4-weeks-before-due-date rule and will certify you without any issues at 36 weeks. One tip that really helped me: I called EDD's SDI line directly (not the main number) and spoke to someone who walked me through exactly what documentation I'd need. They were way more knowledgeable than the general customer service line. The number is 1-800-480-3287. Also, make sure you apply online if possible - the rep told me online applications are prioritized over mailed forms right now. Don't worry about UI at this stage - you can always apply for unemployment benefits later if needed after your PFL period ends and you're ready to job search again. Focus on securing your immediate income through disability and family leave first. The stress of juggling a job search while this pregnant just isn't worth it when you have better options available through SDI/PFL!

I just want to echo what everyone else is saying - definitely go the SDI route first! I was in almost the exact same situation 8 months ago (lost my job at 35 weeks due to budget cuts) and I'm so glad I listened to advice like this. A few things that really helped me through the process: - Get your doctor appointment scheduled ASAP to start the DE2501 paperwork. Mine was booked out 2 weeks and I was panicking about timing. - When you meet with your doctor, bring a list of any pregnancy complications or discomforts you're experiencing (back pain, swelling, difficulty sleeping, etc.). This can help justify starting disability earlier than 38 weeks if needed. - Save all your recent pay stubs and tax documents in one folder - you'll need them for benefit calculations and EDD loves to ask for additional documentation. The whole process felt overwhelming when I was pregnant and stressed about money, but looking back it was actually pretty straightforward once I got that first SDI claim submitted. You'll get through this! And definitely don't feel guilty about not job hunting right now - no employer is realistically going to hire someone who's about to give birth anyway. Focus on securing your benefits and preparing for your baby. Congratulations! 🍼

Just wanted to add that you should also check if your wife's employer offers any supplemental benefits during the transition. Some companies will "top up" the difference between her full salary and the SDI/PFL payments. Also, if you haven't already, make sure to update your health insurance beneficiaries and look into whether you need to adjust any automatic bill payments during this period. The consistent payment amount is great, but it's still usually less than full salary so budgeting adjustments might be needed. Good luck with everything!

This thread has been super informative! As someone who's currently 7 months pregnant and trying to plan ahead, I'm relieved to hear the payment amounts stay the same during the transition. One question I haven't seen addressed - does anyone know if there are any restrictions on working part-time during PFL bonding leave? My employer mentioned I might be able to do some remote work occasionally during my bonding time, but I want to make sure that won't affect my PFL benefits or cause any issues with EDD.