How Do I Claim Unemployment Benefits with the California Employment Development Department (Edd)?

Introduction

Did you lose your job or have your hours reduced? If it wasn't your fault, submit a claim with the California Employment Development Department to receive unemployment benefits every week. You may receive up to $450 each week, depending on your earnings in the past 18 months. Once you submit a claim, wait three weeks for the decision, and make sure you're ready to accept a new job offer to continue receiving benefits. If you wish to receive unemployment benefits, continue reading for instructions on how to submit a claim.

Apply for Unemployment Benefits Online

You’ll need to create a myEDD account or sign in to your existing account before you can submit an unemployment claim online. To sign in, just enter the email address associated with your account and type in your password, then click Log In.

The information you'll need to submit a claim includes the following:Personal information (complete name, Social Security number, birth date, complete address, government-issued ID.Employment information (past 18 months). Include the complete name of the employer and dates worked. Don't forget to include your gross wages. Reason for separation or why your hours were reducedIf you're not a resident of the United States, submit a Permanent Resident Card, USCIS document, Refugee Travel Document, or Employment Authorization Card. You'll also need to submit your DD214 if you served in the military.

Apply by Phone

While submitting your claim online is the fastest option, the California EDD also allows eligible workers to apply for unemployment benefits by phone, fax, or mail. Interpreter services and relay services are also available for applicants who need additional assistance during the application process.

If you wish to apply by phone, make sure you have all the required documents and employment information ready before contacting the agency.

Register With CalJOBS

After filing your claim, register with CalJOBS as soon as possible. You must post your resume to remain eligible for unemployment benefits. Don't worry, because the agency will handle the registration for you. The username is your surname, the first initial of your name, and the last four digits of your SSN. The password would be the two-digit day you were born, the two-digit month you were born, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. For example, if your birthday is on March 15, 1982, your password is 0315 -plus the last four digits of your SSN. The agency will provide additional instructions on how to complete your registration and post your resume through CalJOBS.

Certify to Start Receiving Your Benefits

Keep in mind that unemployment benefits include a one-week unpaid waiting period before benefit payments begin. After your claim has been approved, you’ll also need to complete weekly benefit certifications to continue receiving payments from the EDD. You must also continue searching for work and remain able and available to accept employment opportunities. Otherwise, you may lose your weekly benefits.

Conclusion

Did you encounter any issues while submitting your unemployment claim with the EDD? After submitting your application, the agency will mail important documents within two weeks. Be sure to review all documents carefully so you fully understand your benefits. You may also receive a Request for Identity Verification, especially if you submitted your application by phone, fax, or mail. Follow all instructions carefully and provide any requested documents as soon as possible to help prevent delays in processing your claim. If you have questions or need additional assistance with your unemployment claim, contact the California Employment Development Department Support ASAP.