Hey Sean! I can totally relate to the RESEA appointment anxiety - I was a wreck before mine too! But after reading through all these responses, I'm seeing such a consistent theme: it's really not as bad as we build it up to be in our heads. What's really helping me feel better about this whole process is seeing how many people mention that the counselors are actually there to help, not to catch you doing something wrong. It sounds like as long as you're making a genuine effort (which you clearly are since you're asking all the right questions!), they're going to work with you. The Indeed thing seems like a total non-issue based on everyone's experiences, and the missing company addresses aren't a big deal either. I think your instinct to just explain that you applied online is spot on. As for the two-hour time slot, it really does seem like most people finish way earlier than that. Maybe they just block out that time to be safe? Honestly, after reading all these responses, I'm starting to think the anticipation and worry is way worse than the actual appointment. You've got this! And thanks for asking these questions because the answers are helping me prepare for mine too! 😊

Hey Sean! I just wanted to add my voice to all the reassuring responses you've gotten here. I had my RESEA appointment about 6 months ago and was absolutely terrified beforehand - I literally couldn't sleep the night before because I was so worried about it! But honestly, it ended up being one of the most helpful conversations I had during my job search. The counselor I got was super understanding and actually helped me realize I was being way too narrow in my search criteria. She showed me some job boards I hadn't heard of and even helped me tweak my resume on the spot. Here's what I wish I had known going in: they WANT you to succeed. Your success is literally their success metric. They're not trying to trip you up or find reasons to cut your benefits - they're trying to help you get off unemployment as quickly as possible by finding good work. The Indeed thing is totally fine - that's where I found most of my leads too. And don't stress about the company addresses. I had the same worry and it never even came up. They're way more interested in seeing that you're applying consistently and targeting appropriate positions. My appointment was supposed to be 2 hours but took about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Honestly, the time went by really fast because it felt more like getting career coaching than being interrogated. You're going to do great! The fact that you're here asking thoughtful questions and clearly taking this seriously shows you're exactly the kind of job seeker they love to work with. 💪

Another option is to check any old paperwork or mail you received from EDD when you first applied - your account number should be printed on award letters, determination notices, or other official correspondence. If you can't find any paperwork, you can also try logging into UI Online with your SSN and see if it automatically pulls up your account, or use the "Forgot Account Number" feature on the login page.

If you're still having trouble after trying the online portal, another tip is to check if you have the EDD mobile app installed on your phone. Sometimes the app stores your account info even if you can't remember it. Also, if you've moved recently, make sure to update your address with EDD first before trying to access your account, as mismatched addresses can cause login issues. The customer service lines are usually less busy early in the morning (around 8 AM) if you need to call.

For the card activation issue, try calling Bank of America's EDD customer service line directly at 1-866-692-9374. They can help troubleshoot activation problems and may need to verify your identity over the phone. As for the dispute process, it typically takes 10-45 business days depending on the complexity of the fraudulent transactions. Make sure to keep all documentation and follow up if you don't hear back within their stated timeframe. You can also check the status of your disputes through BOA's online banking or mobile app.

I went through something similar last year! A few additional tips that helped me: 1) When you call BOA at that number Clarissa mentioned, have your SSN and the last 4 digits of your old stolen card ready - they use that to verify you're the account holder. 2) If the first rep can't help with activation, politely ask to be transferred to the EDD card specialist department. 3) For the dispute timeline, BOA usually sends you a letter within 5-10 business days acknowledging your dispute, then provisional credit often appears within 2-3 business days while they investigate. The full investigation can take up to 45 days like Clarissa said, but you should have access to those funds during the investigation. 4) Make sure to check that your new card is linked to the same EDD account - sometimes there can be a disconnect that prevents activation. Hope this helps and you get it sorted out quickly!

glad u got thru! my payments were stuck too and they told me someting about a review flag too. weird they don't just tell us that in the online messages

This is such valuable information for anyone dealing with EDD phone issues! I'm bookmarking this thread because the step-by-step advice here is gold. It's ridiculous that we have to develop these workarounds just to reach a government agency that's supposed to serve us, but I'm grateful for everyone sharing what actually works. The quarterly review flag issue seems to be more common than people realize - I wonder how many others are stuck waiting for payments without knowing that's what's causing the delay.

I'm a social worker who has helped many families navigate these exact challenges. Your situation highlights a major gap in our support systems for family caregivers. While you likely won't qualify for traditional unemployment due to availability requirements, there are several paths worth exploring. Since your father is a Vietnam veteran, definitely pursue the VA's Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers - this could provide monthly stipends, healthcare coverage, and respite care. The process is lengthy but worth starting immediately. For immediate relief, contact your county's Adult Protective Services office (not because of abuse, but because they often coordinate caregiver support services). Many counties have emergency assistance funds specifically for family caregivers that aren't well-publicized. Also consider applying for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) - as someone caring for a dependent teenager while providing unpaid care work, you might qualify. The income limits consider your caregiving situation. Finally, document everything about your caregiving duties and your father's needs. This documentation will be crucial for any benefit applications and could help establish eligibility for programs you haven't discovered yet. You're providing essential care that would cost the state far more if provided institutionally. Don't give up - there are advocates and programs designed to support families like yours.

I'm really moved by your story and can relate to the overwhelming stress of being caught between doing what's right for family and trying to survive financially. Your dedication to your father is admirable, and it's heartbreaking that our systems make it so difficult for family caregivers. Reading through all the responses here, it sounds like there are quite a few avenues to explore that you might not have known about. I wanted to add one more suggestion - have you looked into whether your father might qualify for Veterans Aid & Attendance benefits? This is separate from the comprehensive caregiver program others mentioned, and it provides monthly payments to veterans who need assistance with daily activities. If he qualifies, those funds could help pay for additional care, potentially freeing up some of your IHSS money for your own needs. Also, many cities and counties have "Family Resource Centers" that specifically help families navigate crisis situations like yours. They often know about emergency funds, utility assistance, and other stopgap measures while you're waiting for larger programs to kick in. You're clearly a loving son doing everything possible for your family. I hope some combination of these suggestions helps you find the support you need and deserve.