btw if ur eligibility thing is about work search just make sure u have atleast 3 job contacts for each week. they been cracking down on that lately

One last tip that has worked for me: If you're still struggling to get through by phone after a few days, consider contacting your state assembly member's office. They have liaisons who work directly with EDD and can often help resolve issues more quickly. Google "[your county] state assembly member" to find their contact information. Their constituent services can be surprisingly effective for EDD problems.

hey did u end up using claimyr? did it work? im in same boat rn and wondering if i should try it

Just a tip for anyone using Claimyr or finally getting through to EDD some other way - make sure you have all your claim info ready! Nothing worse than finally getting an agent and then scrambling for your paperwork or not being able to answer their security questions. Have your claim number, last employer info, and dates of employment handy.

Totally off topic but make sure you're doing your work search requirements correctly while waiting! I got so focused on waiting for my money that I messed up my certification and ended up with a whole week disqualified! Don't make my mistake!!

Update us when your check arrives! It helps everyone to know the current timeframes for paper checks.

Have you tried using a different browser? Sometimes Edge works when Chrome doesn't with the EDD site. Worth a shot before you spend hours on the phone!

Quick update for everyone: As of February 2025, EDD has actually improved their account recovery process. If you call the technical support line and explain your situation, they now offer a temporary access code option that bypasses security questions. The temporary code is valid for 72 hours, giving you enough time to certify and then set up new security questions. I've helped several people use this new process and it's much better than the old system. Just be prepared to verify your identity through other means (address, employer information, benefit amounts, etc).

my cousin works for edd and he says they been having major tech issues since they updated the system last month. just keep trying is all u can do 😩

UPDATE: Finally got it to work! For anyone else having this issue, what worked for me was using Microsoft Edge (thanks for that tip!) AND doing it super early at 4am when the system wasn't busy. ALSO make sure you're not using any browser extensions or blockers. I turned everything off and it went through smoothly. Thanks everyone for your help!

my frend had similar issue last month he was at werk when edd called and they left a voicemail and said to call back within 48 hrs. he did and everything was fine. maybe they'll do that for u 2?

UPDATE: I tried that Claimyr service and actually got through to EDD this morning! The rep was able to reschedule my interview for next Tuesday evening after my work shift. She said normally they don't offer rescheduling this close to the interview date, but since I'd been trying to contact them repeatedly and had just started a new job, she made an exception. Just wanted to update everyone and say thanks for all the advice!

quick question - isnt there a way to just get direct deposit from the beginning instead of waiting for the card? my friend said she got direct deposit right away but i cant figure out how she did that

UPDATE: My card FINALLY arrived today! It took exactly 17 days from when the payment was marked as paid. The envelope was super plain like someone mentioned - just a white envelope with a PO Box return address in Texas. Almost looked like junk mail! For anyone else waiting, hang in there. And definitely check EVERY piece of mail carefully!

One thing I forgot to mention about the CUIAB hearing - make sure you answer the phone when they call! They're very prompt, and if you miss the call, it can be a nightmare to reschedule. They typically call within a 5-minute window of your scheduled time. Also, regarding the documents - you should submit your evidence packet before the hearing. Your hearing notice should include instructions for how to submit it. Usually, they want it at least 5 business days before the hearing date. Make sure to keep a copy of everything for yourself to reference during the call. After your hearing, don't call CUIAB constantly asking about your decision - it won't make it come any faster. They'll mail the decision as soon as it's ready, and like I mentioned, it typically takes 2-6 weeks. Keep certifying for benefits while you wait (if you're claiming benefits), even though they might remain pending until the appeal is resolved.

To answer your follow-up questions: 1. No, you don't need a lawyer for a CUIAB hearing, though you can bring one if you want. Most people represent themselves successfully. 2. Yes, send your documents via certified mail or use the electronic submission system if they provide that option. Getting confirmation is important. 3. Since you didn't file the original claim (someone fraudulently did it in your name), you should NOT be certifying for benefits. This is an important distinction from regular appeals where the person did file the original claim. One more piece of advice: during the hearing, if the judge asks you something and you don't know the answer, it's perfectly okay to say "I don't know" rather than guessing. Honesty is crucial in these proceedings.

Thanks everyone for the advice and support. I'm definitely going to file the appeal before the deadline. I've started gathering all my evidence - I have emails to HR, text messages from my boss that clearly cross the line, and a couple coworkers willing to provide statements. I'll keep certifying for benefits while waiting for the hearing. I might try that Claimyr service too since I've been struggling to get anyone on the phone. This whole process is so stressful on top of job hunting, but hearing success stories gives me hope!

Quick question - has anyone done one of these appeal hearings by phone vs. in person? Is one better than the other? My friend said phone is easier but idk

The Eligibility Questionnaire is absolutely standard procedure for all UI claims in California. Here's what's happening: 1) You file your initial claim 2) EDD sends you the questionnaire to gather separation details 3) EDD sends a notice to your employer to verify the separation reason 4) If both stories match (laid off), your claim processes normally 5) If stories conflict, you'll get scheduled for a phone eligibility interview Your employer saying they "won't contest" means when they get the verification form, they'll confirm you were laid off rather than terminated for cause. It doesn't mean you get to skip the standard claim process. My advice: Answer the questionnaire promptly and accurately. Use the exact same wording your employer will likely use ("laid off due to [whatever reason they gave you]"). After that, certify for benefits as instructed and keep an eye on your UI Online account for updates. Most clean, uncontested claims take 2-3 weeks from filing to first payment.

theres no way to know what ur employer is REALLY doing!! my boss told me the same thing then i found out they told edd i was fired for being late!! had to fight it for monthsssss