EDD denied my unemployment claim due to work restrictions - can they reject me for not returning to 'usual occupation'?

They CAN'T deny you just for having work restrictions if you're able and available for some type of suitable work. This sounds like a misunderstanding of your case. You need to file an appeal immediately (within 30 days of the denial notice). On the appeal form, clearly explain that while you can't return to your specific previous job, you are able and available for other types of work within your medical restrictions. The key legal requirement for UI is that you're able to work, available for work, and actively seeking work you CAN do. Your doctor's note should specify what you CAN do, not just what you can't do. Make sure your appeal includes documentation of your job search for positions compatible with your restrictions. I went through something similar after a shoulder injury and won my appeal.

The EDD is WRONG! I had almost the exact same situation in 2025 after my back surgery. They initially denied me saying I couldn't do my "usual work" but that's NOT how the law works!!!! You qualify if you can do SOME kind of suitable work even if it's different from your past job. The problem is these stupid automated systems and the entry-level claims examiners who don't understand the actual rules. It's like they're TRAINED to deny first and make you appeal. I had to fight for WEEKS to get my benefits. Make sure you get your doctor to write a letter specifically stating you are able to work in certain types of jobs (like office work) with your restrictions. That's what finally worked for me.

my cousin had this exact problem last yr. EDD always messes stuff up. u definitely CAN get UI with restrictions as long as ur able to do sum kind of work.

This is actually a common misunderstanding with EDD claims processors. When transitioning from disability to unemployment with work restrictions, you need to be very explicit in your application. Here's what you need to do: 1. File your appeal immediately (Form DE 1000M) 2. Obtain a detailed work status report from your doctor stating exactly what types of work you CAN perform 3. Document your job search activities targeting positions within your restrictions 4. At the appeal hearing, emphasize that you meet the three key UI requirements: able to work (within restrictions), available for work, and actively seeking suitable work The legal standard is not whether you can return to your specific previous job, but whether you're able and available for a substantial field of employment. Having permanent restrictions doesn't disqualify you if there's still a significant labor market for jobs you can perform. Stay persistent! The appeals process works well for these types of misapplications of the rules.

I'm having the EXACT same issue right now! My doctor gave me permanent restrictions after my carpal tunnel surgery (can't do repetitive hand movements), and I got denied for UI last week. I worked in food service before but can't do that anymore. I'm so frustrated with the whole system. Every time I call EDD, I can't get through to anyone who can actually help. It's just recordings and disconnections. I've been trying to reach a real person for 3 days straight with no luck. Has anyone found a way to actually talk to a human being there?

Wait I don't understand something... if your still injured why did you apply for unemployment instead of continuing disability? Unemployment is for when you can work full duty but got laid off, disability is for when you have medical restrictions. Seems like you should be on disability still if you have all those restrictions?

OMG I hate the EDD so much sometimes!!!! They act like robots without common sense. Obviously if you can work in SOME capacity you should get UI while looking for jobs you CAN do. I got denied for the same reason then approved on appeal. Just make sure you keep documentation of ALL your job searches for positions you can do with your limitations. They will ask for this at the appeal hearing.

One important technical point: Make sure you're properly classified in the EDD system. When you transition from SDI to UI with permanent restrictions, you should be coded as "PX" (Permanently Separated - Medical) rather than just medical separation. This classification acknowledges you're not returning to your previous employer but are able to work elsewhere. On your appeal form, specifically request they review your eligibility under this classification. Also, make sure you're continuing to certify for benefits every two weeks while the appeal is pending - if you win, they'll backpay you for those weeks, but only if you've been certifying.

they always do this to ppl! my brother had same problem and his appeal took FOREVER. make sure u save all ur emails and letters from edd.