PFML claim pending - do weekly certifications start now or after approval?

He should absolutely start filing weekly claims right now, even while the initial claim is pending! This is one of the most common mistakes people make with PFML. The approval process for the initial claim can take 2-3 weeks (sometimes longer), but he needs to be certifying each week during that time. Missing weeks can mean missing benefits. He can go back and file for the missed week, but only within a limited timeframe. I believe it's 4 weeks for retroactive claims, but don't quote me on that exact number. Have him log in ASAP and look for the option to file for previous weeks. The certification process for PFML is different from regular unemployment - it's much simpler and mainly just confirms he's still unable to work due to the qualifying condition.

OMG the PFML website is THE WORST. when i filed last year i couldn't figure out ANYTHING and nearly lost 3 weeks of benefits!! defintely file weekly claims now, don't wait for approval. also make sure he keeps any documetnation from doctors visits in case they ask for more proof later. they're super picky about paperwork

I've been through this exact situation with PFML after my surgery last year. Here's what you need to know: 1. Start filing weekly claims IMMEDIATELY - even while the main claim is pending 2. You can backfile for missed weeks (up to 4 weeks back, I believe) 3. Once approved, they'll pay for all properly certified weeks 4. The certification process is much simpler than regular UI - just confirming continued medical need 5. Keep documentation of EVERYTHING Pro tip: Take screenshots of all confirmations when you submit weekly certifications. The system is glitchy and sometimes claims will disappear from your history. Also, if you need to speak with someone at ESD about the claim (which you probably will at some point), I found a service called Claimyr that helped me get through when I couldn't reach anyone. Their website is claimyr.com and they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 that shows how it works. Saved me hours of frustration when my claim had issues.

I think everyone has it wrong here. PFML is not like unemployment. You don't file weekly claims for PFML - you file one application and then they approve your leave period. At least that's how it worked when my wife used it for maternity leave.

The PFML system is GARBAGE and designed to make people give up. I filed for PFML in January after my accident and had to fight for EVERY PENNY. Yes, file weekly claims starting NOW, but don't expect to see any money for at least 4-6 weeks. They'll probably deny him initially too - they deny EVERYONE. Be prepared to appeal and get more documentation. ESD is a JOKE and they make everything 10x harder than it needs to be! Oh and don't bother calling - you'll NEVER get through. I spent 30+ hours on hold over two weeks.

To clarify some information that's being shared here: 1. Yes, weekly certifications ARE required for PFML medical leave due to injury (not always for parental bonding leave, which works differently) 2. You can file retroactively for missed weeks within a limited timeframe (I believe it's within 4 weeks) 3. The approval process typically takes 2-3 weeks if all documentation is complete 4. Benefits are paid retroactively to the date of eligibility once approved 5. The weekly certification process is simpler than UI - primarily confirming continued medical need Make sure all medical documentation clearly states: - Specific diagnosis - Expected recovery timeline - Work limitations - Treatment plan This will help avoid delays in processing. And yes, contacting ESD can be challenging - having a reference number from your claim ready when you call can help.

Thanks everyone for the helpful advice! We logged in last night and were able to file the weekly certification for the missed week and the current week. The system did allow retroactive filing, which was a relief! The doctor provided really detailed documentation about his construction accident injuries and recovery timeline, so hopefully that helps with the approval process. Now we just wait and keep doing the weekly certifications. I'll update here when we get an approval decision in case it helps someone else.

Just wanted to add something important that I learned the hard way - if your partner is getting treatment through workers' compensation for this construction accident, make sure to clarify with both programs about coordination of benefits. PFML and workers' comp can sometimes overlap, and you don't want any issues with duplicate payments that might need to be repaid later. Also, for the weekly certifications, keep copies of everything you submit. The PFML system sometimes has glitches where submitted certifications don't show up properly in your claim history. Having your own records can save you headaches if there are any disputes about whether you filed on time. Hope his recovery goes smoothly!

As someone who's helped several friends navigate both PFML and workers' comp claims, I want to emphasize what others have said about the workers' comp coordination. Since this was a construction accident, your partner should definitely file a workers' comp claim with L&I if he hasn't already. In Washington, workplace injuries are typically covered by workers' comp first, and it usually provides better benefits than PFML. However, don't stop the PFML process you've already started! Sometimes there are gaps in coverage or timing issues where PFML can bridge benefits while workers' comp is being processed. Both programs have their own weekly certification requirements, so you'll want to stay on top of both if you end up filing with L&I too. One thing to watch out for - if workers' comp approves the claim, they may require you to pay back any PFML benefits received for the same period. But it's better to have some income coming in while everything gets sorted out rather than having no benefits at all. The key is being transparent with both agencies about the other claim. They deal with coordination all the time, so don't try to hide one from the other - that's where people get into trouble.