To answer your follow-up question - yes, both parents can take bonding leave simultaneously! Each eligible parent gets their own 8 weeks of PFL bonding benefits, and you can overlap if you choose to. There's no requirement to take them sequentially. Many families choose to have some overlap in the beginning when having an extra set of hands is most helpful, and then stagger the remaining time to extend the total period a parent is home with the baby. Just remember that you both need to file separate claims. Your wife would transition from her pregnancy disability (if she takes that) to her bonding time, while you would transition from caregiving to your bonding time.

Just wanted to add one more tip from my experience - make sure you keep copies of EVERYTHING you submit to EDD. I had to resubmit my wife's medical certification twice because they claimed they never received it the first time. Also, if you're planning to breastfeed/pump, you might want to look into whether your employer has lactation accommodation requirements under CA law - it's separate from PFL but good to know about for when you return to work. The whole process can feel overwhelming but you've got this! Congratulations on your upcoming addition to the family! 💕

Have you checked if theres an online portal where you can dispute the overpayment? Sometimes its easier to handle these things in writing.

I went through something similar last year! The key is to be super organized and persistent. When you call PFL, ask them to put a note in your file that resolving this overpayment issue will unblock your SDI payments - this creates a paper trail that both departments can see. Also, if they try to set up a payment plan for the overpayment, ask if there's a hardship waiver available since you're currently unable to work. Don't give up - it took me about 6 weeks but I eventually got it sorted out! 💪

idk if this helps but I had to verify my identity last month and they made me use ID.me. Maybe check if you need to do that too?

I went through this exact same thing a few months ago! The email verification issue is super common. Here's what I learned: even if you don't get the verification email, your benefits won't be cut off immediately. EDD usually gives you a grace period. But definitely call them ASAP - I waited too long and it caused extra headaches. When you call, ask them to read back the email address they have on file. Mine was missing a letter! Once they fixed it, the verification email came through instantly. Also, make sure to check all your email folders, not just spam. Good luck! 🍀

Oof, dealing with PFL and SDI at the same time sounds like a nightmare. Sending good vibes your way, OP! 🙏

I've been through this exact situation! The key is to be super persistent and try multiple channels at once. While you're waiting for the overpayment form, I'd suggest calling both PFL and SDI to make sure they have each other's contact info and are aware of your transition timeline. Also, ask for a supervisor when you do get through - they sometimes have more power to expedite things. In the meantime, keep detailed records of every interaction and consider filing a formal complaint if it drags on much longer. The system is frustrating but you'll get through it! 💪

Anyone else notice that these issues always seem to happen when you need the money most? It's like they have a sixth sense for inconvenience 😒

I went through this exact same thing a few months ago! Turned out there was a "waiting period" that I wasn't aware of that affected my first week. The EDD rep explained that sometimes the first 7 days include a waiting period where you don't get paid for the first day, so you only get 6 days of benefits, but if there were other deductions or issues, it could be even less. Definitely call and ask them to break down exactly what days you're being paid for and why. Also, make sure you have your confirmation numbers from when you certified - that helped me prove what I had claimed. Hope this helps and you get it sorted out soon!