I'm new to this community but wanted to share a resource that helped me when I was in a similar situation last year. Many people don't know that California has a "Rapid Response" program through the Employment Development Department that's specifically designed to help workers facing layoffs or business closures transition to new employment quickly. While this program is typically offered to groups of workers when a company announces layoffs, individuals can sometimes access these services too. The program includes intensive job search workshops, skills assessments, and connections to employers who are actively hiring. What made it particularly valuable for me was that they had partnerships with companies specifically looking for event management and project coordination skills. They also provided information about apprenticeship programs and on-the-job training opportunities that could lead to permanent employment. To access these services, you need to contact your local Workforce Development Board and specifically ask about Rapid Response services for individual participants. Not every office will offer this, but it's worth asking since the services are much more intensive than standard job search assistance. I also wanted to mention that if you've been receiving UI benefits, you're automatically eligible for career counseling services through the state's workforce system - many people don't realize this benefit is available throughout your entire claim period, not just at the beginning. These counselors can help you develop a transition plan before your benefits end and connect you with resources you might not find on your own. Good luck with your search - the event industry is tough right now but your organizational and project management skills are definitely valued in many other sectors!

I'm new to this community and wanted to share something that might help since I just went through this exact situation last month. When my UI benefits were ending, I discovered that some counties have "Emergency Rental Assistance" programs specifically for people transitioning off unemployment benefits. These programs can provide 3-6 months of rental assistance while you're job searching, which takes a huge financial pressure off during the transition. I also found out that many food banks have "job seeker pantries" that provide not just food assistance, but also professional clothing, interview preparation help, and sometimes even gas cards for getting to interviews. The food bank in my area actually had a partnership with a local staffing agency that held monthly hiring events right at the food bank location. One resource that really surprised me was that some auto dealerships and car repair shops have "job seeker assistance" programs where they provide discounted or deferred maintenance services for people actively job hunting. Having reliable transportation is so crucial for interviews and starting a new job, but car problems can derail everything when you're already financially stressed. Finally, don't overlook your alumni network if you went to college - many career services offices provide lifetime job placement assistance to graduates, even decades later. I reconnected with my college career center and they had an alumni mentorship program that connected me with someone in corporate event planning who gave me invaluable advice about transitioning my skills to other industries. The transition off UI is scary, but there really are more safety nets available than most people realize. You just have to be willing to ask and explore every option. Hang in there!

Adding to what everyone has shared - as someone who's been through this process recently, I can confirm that the system is indeed funded by employer taxes, not your personal income taxes or general government funds. One thing that might help ease your mind is that since you were laid off (not fired for cause), your former employer shouldn't have any reason to contest your claim. Layoffs are considered "no-fault" separations, which is exactly what unemployment insurance is designed to cover. The fact that you worked there for 3 years also works in your favor - you've definitely earned these benefits through your work history. Don't feel guilty about collecting what you're entitled to!

Just wanted to add something that might help you feel more confident about your claim - California has some of the strongest worker protections when it comes to unemployment benefits. Since you mentioned you worked in retail for 3 years before being laid off, you've definitely built up sufficient work history and earnings to qualify. The EDD typically processes legitimate layoff claims pretty smoothly since there's no misconduct involved. One tip: make sure to keep any documentation from your employer about the layoff (like a termination letter or WARN notice if they provided one) just in case, but honestly, straightforward layoff cases rarely get contested. You've earned these benefits through your years of work, so don't hesitate to use them while you're job searching!

Thank you everyone for all this helpful advice! I've started my UI claim online and am documenting everything carefully. I'm going to speak with my union rep tomorrow about the possible discrimination aspect too. Quick follow-up question: once I start receiving partial benefits, if my employer increases my hours back to full-time, do I just stop certifying? Or do I need to formally close my claim? I'm worried they might temporarily give me more hours just to get me off benefits and then cut them again after a few weeks.

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this during your pregnancy! This sounds incredibly stressful. I went through something similar (though not pregnancy-related) and can share what I learned about partial UI. Make sure when you file your claim that you have your pay stubs from before the hour reduction - EDD will need to see your previous earnings to calculate your benefit amount properly. Also, keep a detailed log of your schedule changes with dates. This will be helpful both for your UI claim and if you decide to pursue the discrimination angle. One thing that really helped me was setting up direct deposit for UI payments right away during the application process. It cuts down on delays once your claim is approved. Also wanted to mention - if you're in a union, definitely loop them in ASAP. They often have experience with these exact situations and can advocate for you with your employer. Sometimes just having union representation involved can get employers to back down from sketchy practices. Wishing you the best with your claim and congratulations on your pregnancy! 💕

I went through this exact same process about 6 months ago and I totally get why you're nervous! The anticipation is honestly the worst part. Here's what I wish someone had told me beforehand: bring a glass of water and have it nearby during the call. I got so anxious that my mouth went completely dry halfway through and I started stumbling over my words. The interviewer actually paused and asked if I needed a moment, which was really kind. Also, if you don't understand a question or need clarification, it's totally okay to ask them to repeat it or explain what they're looking for. I did this once when they asked about "work separation circumstances" and I wasn't sure if they meant the reason I left or something else. The interviewer was super helpful and rephrased it. Your situation with the job posting actually works in your favor because it shows your employer genuinely didn't have work available for YOU at the time of separation, even if they later decided to fill the role differently (maybe at lower pay, different hours, etc.). Just stick to what you were told when you were let go. The interview is really just about confirming you didn't quit voluntarily and that you're genuinely looking for work. Sounds like you clearly meet both criteria! You're going to do fine tomorrow. 👍

Hey William! I can totally relate to the pre-interview jitters - I had mine about 2 months ago and was convinced they were going to find some reason to deny me. Turns out it was way more straightforward than I expected! A few practical tips that really helped me: - Clear your schedule for at least 2 hours around the appointment time (mine was supposed to be at 1pm but they called at 2:45pm) - Have a pen and paper ready to jot down the interviewer's name and any important points - If you get disconnected (happened to my friend), don't panic - just wait by your phone, they'll usually call back within 10-15 minutes The thing about your boss posting the job afterward is actually pretty common unfortunately. When they ask about your separation, just stick to exactly what you were told: "laid off due to lack of work." If the job posting comes up, you can simply say you weren't aware of any available positions when you were separated. Most importantly - remember that the vast majority of these interviews result in approval! The EDD is required to do these calls for certain types of claims, but it doesn't mean they're suspicious of you specifically. You're going to do great tomorrow! Let us know how it goes! 🙌

I just went through this exact situation last month and it was absolutely horrible! The waiting is torture when you can see your money sitting there but can't access it. Here's what finally worked for me: I called Money Network at exactly 8 AM PST (as Paolo suggested) and got through in about 25 minutes instead of hours. When I got a rep, I specifically asked to speak with a supervisor about "emergency card replacement due to financial hardship" - those exact words that Paige mentioned are key! The supervisor was actually sympathetic and expedited my card for free (normally $15) because I explained I was about to be evicted. It arrived in 2 business days. Also, while waiting, I used the 211 helpline tip and got connected to a local food pantry that helped with groceries. Don't give up - be persistent with the calls and try multiple approaches. The system is broken but there are people who will help if you keep pushing. You've got this!

I'm new to this community but unfortunately not new to this exact problem! Currently on day 7 waiting for my Money Network card and reading through this entire thread has been both incredibly helpful and deeply frustrating - helpful because of all the amazing tips everyone shared, but frustrating because it's clear this is a widespread systemic issue that shouldn't exist in 2025. I'm going to try several of the suggestions here: calling at 8 AM sharp using the "emergency card replacement due to financial hardship" language, checking with my credit union about emergency loans, and calling 211 for local assistance. It's honestly heartbreaking that people have to become experts in workarounds just to access their own unemployment benefits when they're already in vulnerable situations. Thank you to everyone who shared their experiences and solutions - this thread is like a masterclass in surviving the Money Network nightmare. Hoping we all get our cards soon and can switch to direct deposit to never deal with this again!