How to transition from SDI maternity leave to PFL baby bonding - will EDD automatically add it?

They don't automatically add it!!! I made this mistake last year and ended up with a 3-week gap between benefits. You NEED to file a separate PFL claim using the DE2508 form. Do it about 1-2 weeks before your SDI ends. Don't wait until the last minute like I did!

congrats on the baby! most ppl dont realize SDI and PFL are different programs even tho theyre both thru EDD. i had my baby in january and the transition was confusing

You need to submit a separate application for Paid Family Leave after your pregnancy disability ends. The two benefits are administered by the same department (EDD) but are separate programs with separate applications. Here's what you should do: 1. File your PFL claim using the DE2508 form about 1-2 weeks before your SDI ends 2. You can file online through SDI Online (when you can get logged in) or by mail 3. Make sure your doctor has certified your recovery date correctly 4. You'll need your baby's birth certificate or other documentation SDI is for your medical recovery from childbirth, while PFL is specifically for bonding with your new child. You're entitled to up to 8 weeks of PFL benefits for baby bonding.

I had the SAME exact issue last fall! My disability ended and I thought the baby bonding would just start automatically. NOPE! I called EDD for days and couldn't get through to anyone. I was panicking about bills. Finally used Claimyr to get through to an agent (https://claimyr.com). They connected me to EDD in about 20 minutes instead of me calling 50+ times. The video shows how it works: https://youtu.be/DOLxZQb92wM?si=6N1iCQ3a8Cdb2Ay5 The EDD rep told me I had to file a separate claim for PFL baby bonding, but they were able to backdate it so I didn't lose any weeks of benefits. Definitely don't wait - file that PFL claim ASAP!

my sister just had this same problem lol. the whole system is so confusing! she thought she was all done after disability but then her friend told her about the baby bonding part so she applied late and got less money

The confusion between SDI and PFL is extremely common. Here's how the transition works: 1. SDI (pregnancy disability) typically covers 4 weeks before birth and 6-8 weeks after birth depending on delivery type 2. PFL (baby bonding) provides 8 weeks of benefits that you can take immediately after SDI ends or at any time within the first 12 months of your child's birth 3. You MUST file a separate claim for PFL - it is NOT automatic 4. File your PFL claim (DE2508) 1-2 weeks before your SDI ends to avoid gaps 5. For login issues, try clearing your browser cache or using a different browser The good news is that while these are separate programs, your weekly benefit amount should be the same for both SDI and PFL since they use the same calculation method.

I went through this last year and yes - you absolutely need to file a separate PFL claim! The EDD doesn't automatically transition you. BUT here's something people don't always mention - if you file your PFL claim BEFORE your SDI claim ends, you'll have a smoother transition with less chance of payment gaps. Stupid question but have you tried using a different browser for the login issues? EDD's website is notorious for not working with certain browsers or if you have certain extensions installed.

Catching up on this thread - did you get your PFL claim filed? Any luck getting into your account?