Unemployment after job loss or reduced hours

First moves

1. 1

   Apply through EDD as soon as the job ends or hours are cut. Do not wait for the employer's view of the claim.

2. 2

   Gather your Social Security number or work authorization record, identity papers, mailing address, and the names, addresses, dates, and gross wages for employers in the past 18 months.

3. 3

   Write down the last day worked, why the work ended, any severance or vacation pay, and whether you expect more work from that employer.

4. 4

   Save the application confirmation and every email, text, and mailed notice. Open EDD mail as soon as it arrives.

5. 5

   Read the Notice of Unemployment Insurance Award carefully. It shows the wages EDD used and a possible benefit amount; it is not a final promise that every week is eligible.

6. 6

   Certify for benefits every two weeks. Answer for each week and report work and gross wages in the week they were earned, even if payment comes later.

7. 7

   Follow the work-search directions on the EDD notice and keep a simple list of dates, employers, applications, and other approved search steps.

8. 8

   If EDD denies benefits or sends an overpayment notice, read the mailing date. A written appeal is generally due within 30 days, and EDD says to keep certifying while the appeal is pending.

Watch for

1. 1

   Unemployment generally requires you to be fully or partly out of work, out of work through no fault of your own, able and available to work, and looking for work each week.

2. 2

   A quit or firing does not create an automatic yes or no. EDD may ask for more facts from you and the employer.

3. 3

   A 1099 or contractor label does not block an application. EDD says a possibly misclassified worker can apply and receive a decision.

4. 4

   The first eligible certification usually includes a one-week unpaid waiting period. That week still must be certified.

5. 5

   Part-time work and reduced hours can still fit the program. Report all work and gross wages when earned.

6. 6

   If your own health keeps you from being able and available for work, the Disability Insurance route may fit better for those weeks.

7. 7

   Unemployment, Disability Insurance, and Paid Family Leave cannot pay for the same period.

8. 8

   A written appeal is generally due within 30 days of the notice's mailing date. Keep certifying while the appeal is pending because only certified, otherwise eligible weeks can be paid.