Name change nightmare with EDD account after marriage - can't file PFL with mismatched info!

omg I had the EXACT same issue!!! my ID.me updated fine but EDD still had my old name too. I tried calling for WEEKS and just kept getting the stupid automated system. ended up having to fax (yes, FAX in 2025!!) a copy of my marriage certificate and DL to them with a letter explaining the situation. took forever but eventually got fixed.

This happened to me but with my SDI claim not PFL. i put both names on all my paperwork like "Jane Smith (formerly Jones)" and it went through fine. the EDD rep told me later they mainly care about matching SSNs not names

I had to deal with this last year when transitioning from pregnancy disability to PFL baby bonding. What finally worked was using Claimyr to get through to a live EDD agent (https://claimyr.com). They got me connected to an actual person in about 20 minutes instead of endless hours of trying myself. The agent was able to update my name on the spot and told me exactly what to do with my PFL paperwork to avoid confusion. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/DOLxZQb92wM?si=6N1iCQ3a8Cdb2Ay5. Totally worth it because I was running out of time before my baby arrived.

The most important thing to understand about EDD name changes is that there are actually two different systems that need updating. Many people only update one (usually ID.me) and don't realize the EDD internal records are separate. Here's how to handle this properly: 1. First, contact EDD directly - either by phone or using a service to get through phone lines 2. Ask specifically for a "name change request form" - some representatives don't immediately think of this 3. Submit your marriage certificate along with your completed form 4. Important: When you file your PFL claim, include BOTH names on the DE2501F form with a note explaining the situation 5. In the comments field of your online application, also mention both names This approach prevents delays in processing as the claim verification system will recognize both names attached to your SSN. I've helped dozens of clients through this exact situation with their maternity/PFL claims.

my sister just went through this!!! she ended up just using her maiden name on all the PFL baby bonding stuff even tho she was married bc it was 2 much hassle 2 change with EDD. her checks came fine but her employer got confused & almost messed up her health insurance!!! be careful!!!

Here's the technical explanation of what's happening: The ID.me verification system is a third-party identity verification service that interfaces with EDD but doesn't automatically update EDD's internal CUBS (Claimant User Benefit System) database. This is why your name shows correctly in ID.me but not in your EDD portal. To properly resolve this before filing for Paid Family Leave: 1. You need to speak with an EDD representative who can access the CUBS system 2. They need to initiate a formal name change request in the system 3. You must provide legal documentation (marriage certificate) 4. Once processed, request written confirmation of the name change 5. When filing your DE2508 form for baby bonding, attach a copy of this confirmation The timing is important since you're close to your due date. The fastest resolution will be through direct phone contact with EDD rather than mail or fax options, which can take 2-3 weeks to process.

THE EDD SYSTEM IS COMPLETE GARBAGE!!! I went through this EXACT nightmare when I had my baby last year. Called for WEEKS and never got through. Ended up getting DENIED my first PFL claim because of the name mismatch!!! Had to appeal and fight with them for 2 MONTHS while trying to care for a newborn with NO INCOME. I'm still angry about it. The system is DELIBERATELY complicated to deny people benefits we've PAID INTO!!!

Thank you all for the helpful responses! I'm going to try using Claimyr tomorrow morning to get through to a rep. I had no idea about the two separate systems that need updating. I'll request the name change form specifically and make sure to note both names on all my PFL paperwork. Fingers crossed I can get this sorted before my due date!

I'm going through something similar right now! Just got married 2 months ago and dealing with the same ID.me vs EDD name mismatch issue. Haven't started my PFL claim yet but this thread is super helpful. One thing I noticed - my HR department said they can also help coordinate with EDD if there are discrepancies between employer records and EDD when processing leave paperwork. Might be worth giving your HR a heads up about the name situation so they're prepared if any issues come up during your claim processing. Good luck with everything and congratulations on your upcoming baby!

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now! Just went through a name change after marriage and the EDD system is so confusing. One thing that helped me was keeping detailed records of every attempt to contact them - dates, times, reference numbers if you get any. Also, I found out from a friend who works in benefits that you can sometimes get faster service by calling right when they open at 8am or during lunch hours when call volume might be lower. The Claimyr service mentioned above sounds promising too. Make sure to document everything in case you need to file an appeal later. The stress of dealing with this while pregnant is awful - sending you good vibes that you get it resolved quickly!

I went through this exact same nightmare last year! The key thing that finally worked for me was being super persistent with the phone calls AND having all my documents ready before I called. Here's what I learned: 1) Call EDD at exactly 8:00 AM when they open - you'll get through faster, 2) Have your marriage certificate, old and new IDs, and SSN ready before you dial, 3) When you get through, specifically ask for the "name change department" - don't let them transfer you around, 4) Get a confirmation number for your name change request and write it down! The whole process took about 3 weeks once I got through to the right person. For your PFL claim, definitely use both names on all forms like "Anastasia [Maiden Name] Popov" until it's fully updated in their system. Also, give your employer's HR a heads up about the name situation so they're not surprised when processing your leave paperwork. Don't give up - you've got this mama! 💪