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Lena Kowalski

EDD Appeal Denied - What Are My Next Steps?

Hey everyone, I'm dealing with an appeal for my unemployment claim and I'm not sure what to do next. My appeal was denied and I'm feeling pretty lost. Has anyone gone through this process before? Any advice on what steps I should take now? I'm worried about how long this might drag on and if I'll be able to get the benefits I need. Any help would be really appreciated!

Ugh, appeals are the worst. I went through one last year and it was a total nightmare. Have you tried calling the EDD to get more info on why it was denied? Sometimes they can give you specifics that help with reapplying.

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Thanks for the suggestion. I've been trying to call but can never get through. It's so frustrating!

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Pro tip: call right when they open. I got through after only 20 minutes on hold that way.

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Thanks, I'll give that a shot tomorrow morning. Fingers crossed 🤞

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I found a method to get someone on the phone. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's a video about it: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ

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Sounds too good to be true. Does it really work?

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Yeah, it actually does! I was skeptical at first too, but I was desperate. Got through in about 2 hours.

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20 bucks tho? That's kinda steep when were already struggling 😕

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I get it, but for me it was worth it. Spent way more on gas driving to the office and waiting in line all day.

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Jamal Brown

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Here's what you need to do for your appeal: 1. Gather all relevant documents (pay stubs, termination letter, etc.) 2. Write a clear, concise letter explaining why you believe the denial was incorrect 3. Include any new information that wasn't in your original claim 4. Make copies of EVERYTHING 5. Send your appeal via certified mail so you have proof of delivery 6. Be patient - it can take weeks or even months If you can, try to get legal aid. Some nonprofits offer free help with unemployment appeals. Good luck!

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Wow, thank you so much for this detailed advice! I'll definitely follow these steps. Do you know any good resources for finding legal aid?

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Jamal Brown

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Check out LawHelpCA.org - they have a directory of free legal aid services in California. Also, your local bar association might have referrals for pro bono unemployment lawyers.

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this whole system is rigged against us i swear. been fighting with edd for months and still no resolution. its like they want us to give up 😡

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Have you considered reaching out to your local assemblymember or state senator? Sometimes their office can help push things along with EDD. Worth a shot!

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I hadn't thought of that! How would I go about contacting them?

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Just google your district and 'state assembly' or 'state senate'. Their websites usually have a 'contact us' form or phone number. Explain your situation and ask if they can help with your EDD case.

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Thanks! I'll definitely give this a try. Anything to get this moving forward.

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lol welcome to the club fam. EDD is a joke these days. good luck getting any real help 🤡

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KylieRose

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Hey OP, sorry you're dealing with this. I went through an appeal last year and it suuuucked. But I did eventually win! Happy to chat more about the process if you want. Hang in there!

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That would be amazing! I'd love to hear more about your experience. How long did the whole process take?

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KylieRose

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It took about 3 months from when I filed the appeal to when I got the decision. The hearing itself was pretty quick, maybe 30 minutes. Make sure you're super prepared!

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Anybody else notice how the EDD website is always "under maintenance" when you need it most? 🙄 Like, get it together already!

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Sasha Ivanov

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omg yes! Its like they know exactly when im gonna log in and shut it down just to mess with me 😂

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Liam Murphy

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Seriously tho, why can't they do maintenance at like 3am instead of middle of the day? 🤔

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Amara Okafor

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Just a heads up, theres a new bill being proposed that might change the appeals process. Might wanna keep an eye on that as you go through this.

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Oh wow, I hadn't heard about that. Do you have any more info or a link where I can read about it?

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Amara Okafor

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Sure thing! Here's an article about it: [link to news article about proposed unemployment legislation]. It's still in early stages but worth keeping tabs on.

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unpopular opinion: maybe if people stopped trying to game the system, EDD wouldn't be so strict with appeals 🤷‍♂️

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Yuki Tanaka

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Dude, seriously? Most people are just trying to get the benefits they're entitled to. Don't be that guy.

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I'm just saying, fraud is a real problem. Not saying OP is doing anything wrong, but it affects everyone.

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Yeah, but punishing everyone for the actions of a few is messed up. The system needs to be better, not stricter.

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Hey Lena, I'm so sorry you're going through this - the appeals process is incredibly stressful. I went through something similar about 6 months ago and know how overwhelming it can feel. A few things that helped me: 1) Document EVERYTHING - keep records of all calls, emails, and correspondence with dates/times. 2) If you haven't already, request a copy of your complete file from EDD to see exactly what they based their denial on. 3) Consider filing a new appeal if you're still within the deadline - sometimes the second review goes better. Also, don't give up! I know it feels hopeless right now, but I've seen people win on their second or even third try. The system is broken but persistence can pay off. Sending you strength! 💪

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