EDD PFL extension for postpartum depression - need help with forms!

This is definitely a medical disability situation, not additional bonding time. You'll need a NEW SDI claim with a DE2501 form completed by your doctor specifically citing postpartum depression as the disability. PFL bonding and SDI disability are completely separate benefits, even though they're both through EDD. Your doctor needs to certify that you have a medical condition preventing you from working - which postpartum depression absolutely can be.

I went through something similar last year. You need to file a NEW disability claim (SDI) with EDD - this is different from your baby bonding (PFL). Your doctor absolutely needs to complete the DE2501 form specifically for postpartum depression. A doctor's note alone isn't enough for EDD. You can start the claim online through SDI Online, but your doctor must complete their portion. Make sure to file ASAP since there might be a waiting period between claims!

just talk to ur dr office they should know how to handle this. my sis had same thing happen and her dr office knew exactly what to do with the forms. u might have a waiting period tho before u get paid

THE EDD SYSTEM IS NOT DESIGNED FOR REAL PEOPLE WITH REAL PROBLEMS!!! I went through this exact nightmare scenario in 2024. After my PFL ended, I needed 6 more weeks for severe PPD. Took FIVE PHONE CALLS and THREE DIFFERENT ANSWERS from EDD before getting correct info. You MUST file a new disability claim with DE2501 form. Your doctor MUST complete their portion or EDD will deny you automatically. And yes - there's a stupid 7-day waiting period that they won't pay you for! Because apparently new mothers with depression don't need money that first week! 🤬

Just wanted to share that when I was dealing with postpartum anxiety last year and needed to reach EDD about my transition from PFL to a new disability claim, I used Claimyr to get through to an actual EDD representative. Saved me hours of hold time and disconnected calls. Their video demo (https://youtu.be/DOLxZQb92wM?si=6N1iCQ3a8Cdb2Ay5) shows how it works - basically they wait on hold for you then call you when an agent is on the line. Got all my questions answered in one call about the DE2501 form and filing timeline. Their website is claimyr.com if you're struggling to get through.

This happened to my wife after our second baby. Confusing but here's what's important: postpartum depression is considered a MEDICAL CONDITION, not baby bonding. You need to file a brand new STATE DISABILITY claim. Bonding time is done through Paid Family Leave, but medical conditions (including PPD) are through State Disability Insurance. Different programs, different forms, different rules. Good luck!

One more important thing - the transition from PFL bonding back to disability can have gaps in payment. Make sure when you file the new disability claim, you clearly indicate the last day of your PFL as the day before your new disability begins. Even then, there's a 7-day waiting period for SDI claims that won't be paid. But if you file everything correctly and your doctor completes their part promptly, you should start receiving payments about 2-3 weeks after filing.

my cousin said she just logged into her benefits account and filled everything out there first and then took the dr form in. might be easier that way??