I just went through this exact situation last month! I was taking an online accounting software course while on unemployment and was terrified about the school/training question. After reading horror stories online, I almost answered "No" but decided to be honest. Here's what happened: I answered "Yes," my payments went to pending for about 2 weeks, then I got the eligibility interview call. The EDD representative was actually really supportive - she said they appreciate when people are improving their job skills! I explained that my course was only 6 hours per week, completely flexible, and I was still actively job searching and available for immediate employment. She asked for examples of how the skills related to jobs I was applying for, which I had ready. She approved me immediately and all my pending payments came through the next day. The key was being prepared to show: 1) Limited time commitment that doesn't interfere with work availability, 2) Direct connection to your career field, and 3) Continued active job searching. Carmen, your Excel course sounds perfect for accounting positions - definitely emphasize that connection! The temporary stress is so worth avoiding fraud issues, and honestly, the skills I learned did help me get interviews. Stay honest and you'll be fine!

I'm so glad you posted this question because I was literally in the exact same situation a few months ago! I took an online Excel course while on unemployment after being laid off from my accounting assistant position. I was absolutely terrified about answering "Yes" to the school/training question, but after reading experiences like the ones shared here, I knew I had to be honest. Here's what happened: my certification went to pending status for about 10 days, then I got the eligibility interview call. The EDD representative was actually really professional and seemed genuinely interested in how the course would help my job search. She asked about my time commitment (about 6 hours per week), whether I could start work immediately if offered (absolutely yes), and how Excel skills related to accounting positions. I had screenshots of job postings that specifically mentioned "advanced Excel skills required" which really helped show the direct connection. She approved me right away and my pending payments were released within 48 hours. The whole interview took maybe 8 minutes! My biggest advice: definitely answer truthfully, keep detailed records of your job applications during the course period, and prepare a simple explanation of how Excel directly supports accounting work. The temporary inconvenience of pending payments is nothing compared to fraud penalties, and honestly, those Excel skills have already helped me in interviews. You're making a smart investment - EDD generally views strategic upskilling very positively when it's clearly connected to your career goals!

I work as a benefits specialist and can confirm what others have said - your non-fraud UI overpayment should not impact your PFL eligibility or benefits. Since you're actively on a payment plan and making regular payments, EDD typically won't interfere with your PFL. The 2-week timeline is actually pretty standard right now. PFL claims are taking 14-21 days on average in 2025, so you're still well within normal processing time. I've seen many cases where parents panic at the 2-week mark, but most get approved by week 3. One thing to keep in mind: make sure you continue your overpayment plan payments while on PFL. As long as you stay current, there shouldn't be any cross-program issues. The worst thing you could do is stop paying because you think PFL will cover everything - that could potentially trigger collection actions later. Hang in there - you're doing everything right, and this time with your daughter is precious. Try to focus on that instead of the EDD stress!

I'm a case worker who's handled hundreds of these situations, and I want to give you some peace of mind. Your UI overpayment will absolutely NOT affect your PFL baby bonding claim since it's non-fraud and you're actively making payments. Here's what's actually happening behind the scenes: When you have an active payment plan, EDD flags your account as "compliant" which means you're meeting your obligations. This prevents any automatic offsets or garnishments from other programs. The computer systems literally can't touch your PFL benefits while you're current on your plan. The 2-week wait is completely normal - we're actually seeing faster processing times now than we have in years. Your claim is probably sitting in a queue waiting for final review, not because of any issues but simply due to volume. One quick tip: If you want to check status without calling, log into your EDD account and look under "Claim History" - if there are no pending items or requests for additional info, you're just waiting in the normal processing queue. Keep making those monthly payments and enjoy this time with your baby girl. Everything will work out fine!

Have you tried reaching out on social media? Sometimes tweeting at them or messaging on Facebook can get a response. Worth a shot!

I'm in a similar situation - submitted my claim about 2.5 weeks ago and radio silence since then. It's so stressful not knowing what's happening! I've been checking the online portal daily but the status hasn't changed at all. Definitely going to try some of these suggestions, especially the early morning calling tip. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - at least I know I'm not alone in this mess!

That's awesome to hear! Having the school help with the CTB application makes such a huge difference. I wish more training providers were that proactive about helping students navigate the EDD process. Your son is really lucky to have found a program that's both EDD-approved AND supportive with the paperwork. The trucking industry needs good drivers, and it sounds like he's setting himself up for success the right way. Keep us posted on how the training goes!

This is such a helpful thread! As someone who's been through the EDD system myself, I can't stress enough how important it is to get everything documented properly upfront. Your son is so smart to ask these questions before starting the program. One thing I'd add that I learned the hard way - when he does his bi-weekly certifications, make sure he's super specific about reporting the training stipend. Don't just put "yes" to working - actually enter the exact hours and dollar amount. EDD's system can flag inconsistencies if the reporting isn't precise. Also, even with CTB approval, keep copies of all his certification submissions. I had an issue months later where EDD questioned some of my earlier certifications, and having those records saved me from a major headache. Sounds like he's found a great school that actually knows how to work with EDD - that's honestly half the battle right there!

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'm dealing with a similar situation where EDD isn't considering all my employment history when calculating benefits. From what I've learned, you should definitely push to speak with a Tier 2 representative as Katie mentioned. They have more authority to make corrections to your claim. Make sure you have all your W-2s and pay stubs from both jobs ready when you call. Sometimes it takes multiple calls and escalations, but don't give up - you're entitled to have ALL your qualifying wages included in the calculation, not just the most recent part-time job. Document everything and keep records of your calls. Good luck!