I just went through my EDD appeal hearing last month and won! One thing that really helped me was creating a simple one-page summary with bullet points of the key facts in chronological order. During the hearing, I could glance at it to stay on track without sounding like I was reading from a script. Since your case involves freelance work timing, make sure you can clearly explain the exact dates you did the work versus when you filed your claim. The judge will want to understand the timeline precisely. I'd suggest having a calendar or timeline visual ready - even just for your own reference during the phone call. Also, don't worry too much about being nervous. The judges deal with nervous claimants all day and they understand this is stressful. Just speak slowly and clearly, and if you need a moment to find a document or collect your thoughts, it's totally fine to say "Can I have just a moment to reference my documentation?" The fact that you have emails showing the work dates puts you in a really good position. Make sure those emails are easily accessible during your call!

I've been helping people with EDD appeals for several years, and your preparation sounds excellent! One crucial thing I always tell people: practice saying your key facts out loud before the hearing. When you're nervous, it's easy to stumble over dates or get your timeline confused, even when you know it perfectly on paper. Since your case involves freelance work done BEFORE filing, here's what the judge will likely focus on: - Exact dates you performed the work vs. when you filed your claim - Whether this work should have been reported (it shouldn't if it was before filing) - Why EDD thinks you made a "false statement" about it Make sure you can clearly articulate: "I completed freelance work in [specific month/year], received payment on [date], and filed my unemployment claim on [later date]. This work was completed entirely before I filed my claim, so there was no requirement to report it on my initial application." Also, double-check your state's rules about pre-claim work reporting - in most cases, work done before filing doesn't need to be reported unless it affects your base period wages. Having this regulation reference handy could be helpful. You've got this! Being this prepared already puts you ahead of most people who go into these hearings.

I'm in a somewhat similar situation - my employer just reduced my hours to part-time due to "budget constraints" but I'm still technically employed. From what I've learned, you should definitely apply since this wasn't your choice. One thing I'd add is to keep detailed records of all communication with your employer about this leave. Screenshot emails, save any paperwork they give you, etc. Also, when you file your weekly certifications, you'll need to report any work you do (even if it's just checking work emails) and any income you receive. The burnout aspect is real - I know healthcare admin has been incredibly demanding. While you can't mention that as your reason for the claim, at least this forced break might help you recover before you return to that intense environment.

Just want to echo what others have said about getting everything in writing from your employer. I was in a similar spot last year - put on "administrative leave" that was supposedly temporary but felt more like they were trying to push me out. Having that paper trail saved me when EDD questioned whether it was really employer-initiated. Also, don't stress too much about the work search requirements while you're still technically employed. You can fulfill them by networking, taking online courses related to your field, or even just updating your LinkedIn profile and resume. The key is showing you're making an effort to stay "job ready" even if you're not actively trying to leave your current position. One more tip - if you do get approved, your weekly benefit amount will be based on your earnings over the past 12-18 months, so hopefully those long hours you've been working will result in a decent benefit amount. Take care of yourself during this break - burnout in healthcare is no joke!

This is SO frustrating and unfortunately way too common with EDD! The exact same thing happened to me last month - they called right at the start of my interview window and hung up immediately. I was panicking thinking I'd lost my chance, but here's what worked for me: I called back using the main number within 10 minutes and got through after about 40 minutes on hold. When I explained what happened, the rep said "Oh yeah, that's been happening a lot lately - our phone system drops calls when there's high volume." She was actually really apologetic and rescheduled me for 3 days later without any issues. The key is to call back ASAP while it's still fresh, and mention that it was a dropped call during your scheduled interview window. They have notes about these technical issues and should be understanding. Also double-check that your phone number in their system is correct! The rescheduled interview went perfectly fine - no technical issues the second time. Don't give up, you've got this! 🤞

This is such a nightmare! I went through something similar a few months ago and it was absolutely maddening. Here's what I learned from my experience: Call back IMMEDIATELY - like within the hour if possible. When you get through (and you will, just be patient with the hold times), explain exactly what happened and ask them to check for any technical notes in your file. In my case, they could actually see that the call had been dropped on their end and were able to reschedule me without any hassle. The rep even apologized and said their phone system has been having major issues. Also, make sure to ask for a confirmation number or reference number for your new interview appointment - having that written down saved me so much stress later. The whole system is broken but the individual reps are usually pretty understanding about these technical glitches since they deal with them constantly. You didn't do anything wrong, so don't let this discourage you from pursuing your benefits! Keep us posted on how it goes! 🤞

One more important thing: If your wife does end up signing something (ideally the "mutual separation agreement" that someone suggested), when she files for unemployment, she should be ready for an eligibility interview. EDD almost always schedules these when there's any hint of a voluntary quit. During that interview, she needs to clearly explain that while she signed a document, she did not truly quit voluntarily - the school eliminated her position and gave her no real choice. The EDD interviewer will likely contact the school to verify, which is why it's so important to have documentation showing this wasn't a true voluntary resignation. If the employer contradicts what your wife says during this interview, things get more complicated. That's why having things in writing is so crucial.

UPDATE: I just spoke with my wife and she managed to negotiate with the director! They agreed to give her a formal layoff notice instead of asking for a resignation. The director admitted they were trying to "keep their paperwork clean" but understood how a resignation could harm her benefits eligibility. She'll be eligible for recall if enrollment increases, but at least now there's no question about her EDD eligibility. Thanks everyone for the advice - it gave us the confidence to push back!

Hey OP, what state are you in? The process can vary a bit depending on location.

I went through the exact same thing last year with CA SDI! The "insufficient evidence" reason is so vague and unhelpful. What really helped me was requesting a copy of my entire file from EDD - you can see exactly what they have on record and what might be missing. Sometimes they don't receive all the medical records you think you sent. Also, for the appeal, make sure you highlight any functional limitations your condition causes (like inability to sit/stand for long periods, concentration issues, etc.) rather than just listing diagnoses. The appeals process took about 3 months for me, but I eventually got approved. Hang in there! 💪