To all those having trouble reaching a human at California Unemployment. I just ran across this video that gave me a shortcut to reach a human. Hope it helps! https://youtu.be/Ize0EkN4HDI

I had the same issue! Even though I verified with ID.me for EDD, Bank of America requires their own separate identity verification process. You'll need to visit a BOA branch with two forms of ID - I brought my driver's license and passport. The process was actually pretty quick once I got there, took about 15 minutes. Make sure to call ahead to confirm what forms of ID they accept, as some locations might have specific requirements. Once verified at BOA, you should be able to access your debit card account normally.

I'm jumping in here as someone who went through a very similar situation about two years ago. Like you, I was a healthcare worker who made mistakes on my UI claim during COVID - I failed to report some per diem shifts properly and also received some COVID-related pay that I didn't report correctly. The most important thing I learned is that the EDD really does distinguish between intentional fraud and honest mistakes, especially when you self-report like you did. My case took almost 14 months to resolve (yes, the wait is brutal!), but when it finally did, it was classified as non-fraud overpayment. Here's what happened in my case: I ended up owing about $3,400 back, paid a 30% penalty (so roughly $4,400 total), and they set me up on a payment plan of $150/month. No criminal issues whatsoever. The EDD representative I finally spoke with actually thanked me for being proactive in reporting the errors. Your medical documentation is going to be crucial - make sure you have everything organized. Since you were legitimately unable to work due to a medical condition, there's a good chance you might have qualified for SDI instead. When you eventually get through to them, ask about potentially converting or adjusting your claim to the correct program. The anxiety is absolutely terrible - I completely understand the sleepless nights. But based on your description, everything points to this being resolved as a standard administrative overpayment. You did the right thing by being honest from the start.

I'm new to this community but wanted to reach out after reading your post because I'm dealing with some EDD anxiety myself, though not quite as severe as yours. What really stands out to me is how responsibly you've handled everything - you had legitimate medical reasons for needing time off, you self-reported your mistakes proactively, and you've kept all your documentation organized. Reading through all the responses here has been really educational for me too. The consensus from people with actual experience seems very clear: jail time is not something you need to worry about for self-reported honest mistakes like yours. The amounts involved are relatively small, you have medical documentation, and you disclosed everything voluntarily - these are all major factors working in your favor. I know the waiting is absolutely brutal (I'm dealing with my own EDD delays on a different issue), but it sounds like when this finally gets resolved, it'll be a straightforward repayment situation rather than anything criminal. The fact that you're a healthcare worker who dealt with COVID complications should also be taken into account by the EDD. Everyone here has given such great advice about staying organized, understanding the difference between fraud and non-fraud overpayments, and knowing your options when you eventually get that determination letter. You've clearly done everything right from the beginning, and that integrity is going to matter when your case is finally reviewed. Hang in there - the uncertainty is awful, but you're going to get through this!

Thanks everyone for all the helpful information! I've learned so much. To summarize what I understand now: 1. I should qualify based on my earnings ($16,500 over 7 months is above minimum) 2. My "reduction in workforce" termination should be considered no-fault 3. I need to check exactly which quarters count in my base period 4. I should prepare for my eligibility interview by having my termination details ready 5. There's a one-week waiting period before benefits start 6. I need to keep detailed records of my job search (at least 3 per week) I'll update this thread after my eligibility interview next week! Fingers crossed everything goes smoothly.

Good luck with your interview, Zara! You seem well-prepared now. Just wanted to add one more thing - during your eligibility interview, be honest and straightforward about everything. Don't try to overthink your answers or volunteer extra information they don't ask for. They're mainly verifying the basic facts: when you worked, how much you earned, and why your employment ended. Also, if you haven't already, make sure you have your last pay stub and any termination paperwork from Target handy during the call. Sometimes they ask for specific dates or wage amounts and it's good to have the exact numbers ready. You've got this! The fact that you're being proactive about understanding the process puts you ahead of a lot of people. Keep us posted on how it goes!

Just to add another perspective - I had my overpayment hearing 3 months ago and used UPS with signature required. It worked great and was actually faster than USPS in my area. The key thing is whatever service you choose, make sure you can track it AND get proof of delivery with signature. Also, don't forget to keep detailed records of when you sent everything. I created a simple spreadsheet with dates, tracking numbers, and delivery confirmations. During my hearing, the judge asked when I had submitted my documents and I was able to give exact dates and tracking info. It really helped establish that I had followed all the proper procedures. One last tip - if you have any text messages, emails, or other electronic communications related to your case, print those out too and include them. I had some text exchanges with a former employer that helped clarify my work dates, and the judge found them very useful. Electronic evidence is just as valid as paper documents!

Based on everyone's experiences here, I'm going with Priority Mail Express with signature confirmation AND emailing PDF copies to the judge's clerk if that option is available on my hearing notice. The combination approach seems like the safest bet - fast delivery with tracking, plus electronic backup in case anything goes wrong with the mail. I'm also going to create that chronological timeline document with all my certification dates and reported earnings. My case involves several months of part-time work while collecting benefits, so having everything laid out clearly will definitely help. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - this thread has been incredibly helpful! I was feeling really anxious about the process but now I feel much better prepared. I'll make sure to call and confirm they received everything a few days before my hearing. Fingers crossed it goes smoothly!

As someone who works in EDD processing, I want to clarify a few things that might help everyone here. The CTB program is definitely your best bet for collecting benefits while in school, but there are some nuances people should know: 1. The "able and available" requirement still applies even with CTB approval - but it's interpreted more flexibly for students in approved programs. You just need to show you could accept suitable work that fits around your training schedule. 2. Processing times can vary wildly depending on your local office. Some get approved in 2-3 weeks, others can take 6-8 weeks. Submit your DE 2402 form immediately after answering "yes" to school attendance. 3. Make sure your program meets the minimum 20 hours per week requirement for CTB. Most nursing programs easily exceed this, but it's worth double-checking. 4. Keep detailed records of your class attendance and grades. EDD can request progress reports at any time, and poor attendance or failing grades can result in benefit termination. One pro tip: If your program has an internship or externship component, that actually strengthens your CTB application because it shows direct job preparation. Good luck to all the future healthcare workers here - your timing is perfect given the current demand!

I'm actually an EDD case worker and wanted to jump in with some additional guidance that might help. A few key points that haven't been fully covered: First, regarding the gap in benefits while your CTB application is processing - you should continue certifying as normal and keep doing your work search activities. If your CTB gets approved, it will be retroactive to when you first reported attending school, so you won't lose those weeks of benefits. Second, for nursing programs specifically, make sure your school is listed in EDD's Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). Most accredited nursing programs are, but it's worth verifying on the CalJOBS website before you submit your application. Third, document everything related to your layoff from the medical assistant position. If it was due to healthcare industry changes or facility restructuring, that can actually work in your favor for CTB approval since you're retraining within the same industry. One thing I always tell claimants - when you fill out the DE 2402 form, attach a personal statement explaining how your nursing training directly relates to your previous work experience and current labor market conditions. EDD likes to see a clear career progression plan. Also, don't just rely on online submissions. If you can, drop off your CTB paperwork in person at your local office and ask for a receipt. This creates a paper trail and often speeds up processing. Feel free to ask if you have any other questions about the process!