EDD approved PFL for wrong dates after claiming I'm ineligible - now they want 3 months of work history

The EDD system can be confusing but there's a logical explanation for what happened. When they ask if you work full-time, that's asking about your normal employment status, not whether you were working during your leave (which obviously you weren't). The date extension likely happened because EDD automatically grants the maximum benefit period you're eligible for (8 weeks for baby bonding) if you don't specify exact dates on your DE2508 form. That's actually good news - you're entitled to more time than you initially planned to take. As for the work history request, that's standard when there's any discrepancy in your claim. They need to verify your wages to calculate the correct benefit amount. My advice: 1) Fill out the work history form accurately, 2) If you only want the 2 weeks, call EDD and specifically request to have your claim dates adjusted, 3) Don't worry about fraud accusations if you're being honest about your work status and dates.

omg i had almost the EXACT same thing happen with my claim back in november!! they kept sending me conflicting letters too and i was so stressed about it. just keep calling them until you get someone who actually knows what theyre doing. the first 3 people i talked to gave me completely different answers 🙄

This system is DELIBERATELY CONFUSING and designed to make people give up on their benefits! I went through something similar with my maternity claim. The EDD reps contradict each other constantly and half of them don't even know their own policies. The key thing you need to understand is that they calculate benefits based on your BASE PERIOD wages (which is why they're asking for 3 months of history), not your current work status. And they always try to trip you up with these forms that are worded in the most confusing way possible. Document EVERYTHING. Keep copies of all forms you submit, take screenshots of your online account, and write down the name and ID number of every rep you speak with. You're going to need this paper trail when they inevitably mess something else up.

Call the PFL helpline directly at 1-877-238-4373 instead of the main EDD line. Ask specifically for someone who handles paid family leave claims. The main EDD line often connects you with representatives who handle unemployment claims and they aren't always familiar with the nuances of PFL. As for the dates, EDD sometimes automatically adjusts claim periods based on the documentation they receive. Did you submit any medical paperwork that might have indicated a different timeframe? Regarding that work history form - it's called the DE2508C and it's used to verify your wages when there are discrepancies. Fill it out accurately with your regular work hours for the months requested. Don't overthink it - just be honest about your normal work schedule.

Dude I feel your pain. I spent THREE WEEKS calling that EDD number non-stop and could never get through. Always disconnected after 2 hours on hold. Finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me through to an agent in like 20 minutes. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/DOLxZQb92wM?si=6N1iCQ3a8Cdb2Ay5 The agent I talked to explained that the forms are often misinterpreted by the processing staff. She fixed my dates right away and explained exactly what to put on that work history form. Seriously saved me like 10 hours of frustration.

There are a few important things to understand here: 1. For PFL baby bonding, you're entitled to up to 8 weeks of benefits that can be taken in increments as small as 1 day within the first year after birth. 2. That work history form (DE2508C) is standard when there's any confusion about your employment status. They use this to verify your wages during the base period (roughly 5-17 months before your claim). 3. Regarding the dates: EDD often approves the maximum benefit period you're eligible for based on the doctor's certification. You don't have to take all of it - you'll only be paid for the days you certify. 4. To fix this: Fill out the DE2508C accurately. Then call PFL and explain you only want benefits for your original dates (Jan 15-29). Ask them to adjust your claim dates in their system. 5. You won't be accused of fraud as long as you only certify for days you were actually on leave. The approval letter just shows your eligibility period, not what you'll definitely be paid for.

also dont be surprised if the payments take forever to show up!! mine took almost 6 weeks and i had to keep calling to check on status. so frustrating when ur trying to pay bills!!

Based on your updates, it sounds like you're on the right track. To answer your question about cashing benefits: only use the money for the dates you were actually on leave. When you speak with EDD, ask them to issue an adjusted Notice of Computation that reflects your correct dates. They can recalculate your benefit amount based on your actual leave period. Regarding certification - yes, you should receive a continued claim certification form (DE2580) where you'll indicate which specific days you were on leave. This is where you'll officially tell them which days you're claiming benefits for, regardless of the broader approval period. Keep copies of everything and don't stress too much. These administrative mix-ups are common and fixable. Just be persistent and clear in your communication with EDD.