idk if this helps, but I had a similar issue last year. Turns out there was a problem with my employer's wage report. Had to bug my HR dept to fix it. Maybe check with your work?

@Vanessa Chang - I went through something similar last year with my PFL claim. A few things that helped me: 1) Check if your claim status changed in UI Online - sometimes there are hidden issues that aren't obvious. 2) If you got the first two checks, your claim is likely approved, so this might just be a processing backlog. 3) Try faxing a follow-up inquiry to their PFL unit - sometimes fax gets through faster than calls. The number should be in your UI Online messages. Don't give up! It's frustrating but they usually sort it out eventually. Keep us posted on how it goes! 🙏

I'm dealing with almost the exact same situation right now! EDD approved my PFL claim for bonding after my son was born in February, but now they're saying I should have extended my disability benefits instead of switching to PFL. It makes no sense because I already completed my 6-week recovery period on disability and was properly transitioning to bonding time. What's really helped me so far is keeping detailed records of every conversation with EDD reps - dates, times, and names when possible. I've noticed they give completely different answers depending on who you talk to, so having that documentation has been crucial for my appeal. Also, I discovered that printing out the official EDD pamphlet that explains the difference between SDI and PFL benefits can be really helpful. It clearly states that mothers can use SDI for recovery and then PFL for bonding, which is exactly what we did. The pamphlet is available on their website under "Publications." Your situation with them overturning the decision once and then denying again sounds like their computer system is flagging your claim incorrectly. Stay strong - you followed the rules correctly and deserve those benefits!

I'm so sorry you're going through this nightmare with EDD! Reading your story and all these comments makes me realize how common this issue is. I'm currently pregnant and planning to take both disability for recovery and then PFL for bonding, but now I'm terrified I'm going to face the same problems. Based on what everyone is sharing here, it sounds like the key is having crystal clear documentation of the transition between benefits. I'm going to start preparing now by: - Getting everything in writing from my HR department about the proper sequence - Keeping copies of all forms and submission dates - Taking notes on every conversation with EDD reps Has anyone found it helpful to involve their employer's HR department in these disputes? I'm wondering if having my employer confirm that I followed their recommended process might add weight to an appeal. Thank you all for sharing your experiences - it's helping me prepare better, even though it's scary to know how difficult this process can be!

I'm dealing with something kinda similar... my baby was born 3 months ago and I just found out I could've been getting paid this whole time lol. I thought PFL was only for mothers not fathers! Nobody at my job told me I could apply. I sent in my application last week but now I'm worried about this 41 day thing too! Will let you know what happens with mine!

I work as a benefits coordinator and see these EDD mix-ups constantly. Here's what you need to do IMMEDIATELY: 1. File a new DE2508 for Baby Bonding PFL today, even though you're past 41 days 2. Include Form DE2501F (Late Filing form) explaining the situation 3. Write a detailed letter stating you filed within the window but for the wrong benefit type due to unclear guidance 4. Include ALL documentation from your original claim to show you were actively pursuing benefits The key point everyone's missing: EDD has an internal policy that if YOU made a good faith effort to file correctly within the timeframe but were misdirected by their system/representatives, they can waive the late filing penalty. This is called "good cause" and it applies to your exact situation. Also, make copies of EVERYTHING before you send it. EDD has a habit of "losing" paperwork. One more thing - if the new claim gets denied, immediately request an appeal hearing. The appeals judges are much more reasonable than the initial claims processors and actually listen to the circumstances. Don't give up! You paid into this system and deserve these benefits.

Quick question - did you check if your claim is flagged for any reason? Sometimes that can cause delays and extra info requests.

I went through this exact same situation a few months ago! My employer wasn't responding to SDI's requests either. What worked for me was gathering all my own documentation - recent paystubs, employment verification letter, and my doctor's forms - then calling SDI directly to provide everything over the phone. I called right at 8 AM when they opened and got through after about a 45-minute wait. The rep was actually really helpful once I got connected and was able to expedite my claim once they had all the info. Definitely bring up the employer communication issue when you call - they have alternative processes for this exact scenario. Good luck!

Quick update - payment finally came through today! It took exactly 12 business days from filing. The EDD rep I spoke with (finally got through after using the 8am trick) said they're currently processing most baby bonding claims in 10-14 business days, so right on schedule I guess. And yes, it came on a debit card even though I selected direct deposit. Thanks everyone for the help and advice!

Congrats on your baby girl and glad to hear your payment finally came through! That's really helpful to know the actual timeline. I'm curious - when you called using the 8am trick, how long were you on hold before speaking to someone? And did the EDD rep mention anything about why some claims get flagged for additional review? I'm expecting my second child in a few months and want to be prepared for the PFL process this time around.