Is $450/week the max PFL benefit for caring for a sick spouse? Can't survive on this in CA!

Thats what i got too when i took care of my mom after her hip replacement. its a % of your income not a flat rate. sucks but better than nothing i gues

The PFL benefit amount is calculated at 60-70% of your highest quarterly earnings during your base period (5-18 months before your claim started). There is a maximum weekly benefit amount that's updated annually. For 2025, the max is $1,620 per week. If you're only getting $450, either your reported wages were low in your base period or there might be a calculation error. You should check your benefit calculation on the EDD website and compare it with your wage records. If something seems off, call EDD to dispute it.

Good luck calling EDD! I spent TWO WEEKS trying to get through when they messed up my baby bonding PFL calculation. Their phone lines are a nightmare - constant busy signals or getting disconnected after waiting for hours. I finally used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to an agent in about 20 minutes. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/DOLxZQb92wM?si=6N1iCQ3a8Cdb2Ay5. Totally worth it because the agent fixed my calculation and I ended up getting the full benefit amount I was entitled to.

ABSOLUTELY call and challenge this! The EDD system is FULL OF ERRORS and they count on people not checking their math!!! I had the EXACT same issue with my maternity leave last year - they initially calculated my benefit at $520/week when it should have been over $1200. They were using income from 2 YEARS prior when I was working part-time!!! Had to fight with them for WEEKS but eventually got it fixed and backpaid the difference.

@donttrustthegovt yes it's legit! I was skeptical too but I was desperate after trying for days. They basically have a system that continuously redials EDD until they get through, then they call you and connect you. Saved me hours of frustration.

Update: I finally got through to EDD this morning. They were using my income from a different employer that I haven't worked for since 2023! The agent fixed it and recalculated my benefit - should be getting $1,240/week which is a HUGE difference. Thanks everyone for the advice. They're sending an adjusted payment within 7-10 days.

btw for anyone else reading this thread, when ur taking care of a family member with PFL make sure u get the right medical certification form filled out correctly!! my doctor didnt check the right box for care duration and my initial claim was denied. had to resubmit everything and lost 3 weeks of benefits during the appeal process