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Miguel Ramos

Going back to work part-time while on EDD unemployment - what do I need to know?

Hey everyone, I'm thinking about going back to work part-time after being on unemployment. Has anyone done this before? What do I need to know? I'm worried about how it might affect my benefits. Any advice would be really appreciated!

I've been there! Make sure you report ANY income you earn to EDD. Even if its just a few hours. They will adjust your benefits accordingly. Better to be honest than risk an overpayment later.

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This šŸ’Æ Always report everything. EDD doesnt play around with unreported income.

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Yep, learned this the hard way. Had to pay back a bunch of $$ cuz I didnt report a side gig 😭

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Thanks for the advice! Do you know if theres a certain amount I can earn before it affects my benefits?

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I think you can earn up to 25% of your weekly benefit amount without it affecting your payment. But double check on the EDD website to be sure!

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Heads up: going back to work part-time can be tricky with unemployment. Here's what you need to know: • Report all earnings, even small amounts • Your weekly benefit might be reduced based on what you earn • You may still qualify for partial unemployment • Keep detailed records of your hours and pay • Be prepared for more paperwork and certifications • Consider the impact on your overall financial situation It's doable, but requires careful planning and communication with EDD. Good luck!

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This is super helpful, thanks for breaking it down!

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Wow, thank you so much for this detailed info! I'll definitely keep all of this in mind.

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ugh good luck dealing with EDD. took me 3 months to get my claim sorted when I started working part time again. their system is a joke 🤔

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Same here. Spent hours on hold just to get disconnected. Its like they dont want us to work or smthn šŸ™„

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Have you guys tried using claimyr.com? It's a calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, and connects you when an agent picks up. Costs $20 but saved me hours of frustration. Here's a video about it: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ

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Never heard of it. Sounds too good to be true. Does it actually work?

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Yeah, it really does! I was skeptical too, but it got me through to an agent in like 30 mins when I'd been trying for days. Worth every penny imo

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Just make sure you dont earn more than your weekly benefit amount or youll lose eligibility for that week. Its a balancing act for sure.

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I started working part-time at a grocery store while on unemployment. As long as you're honest about your hours and pay, it's not too bad. Just be ready for some weeks where your benefit is lower.

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That's good to hear! How many hours were you able to work before it really impacted your benefits?

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I was working about 20-25 hours a week. My benefits went down, but I was still getting something most weeks. It really depends on your specific situation tho.

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Anyone know if theres a grace period when you start working again? Like do I have to report income immediately or is there a buffer?

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Pretty sure you gotta report right away. EDD wants to know about any changes ASAP.

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Yep, no grace period. Report any income for the week you earn it, even if you haven't been paid yet.

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Pro tip: keep a spreadsheet of all your hours, pay, and unemployment benefits. Makes it way easier to track everything and spot any issues.

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That's a great idea! I'll definitely do that. Thanks!

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Dont forget to factor in taxes! Your part-time job will withhold taxes, but unemployment benefits often dont. Might wanna set some $$ aside so you dont get hit with a big bill come tax time.

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Has anyone had luck getting through to EDD lately? I've been trying to ask about partial benefits but can never reach a human 😫

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Ive heard if you call right when they open you have a better chance. But its still a nightmare

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Try claimyr.com. It's a service that calls EDD for you and connects you when an agent is available. Costs $20 but saved me hours of hold time. Check out this video: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ

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$20? Seems steep but might be worth it at this point. How long did it take you to get through?

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It took about 45 minutes for me, but I've heard others get through faster. Way better than spending all day on hold!

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