I work seasonal construction and deal with this every winter. The trick is documenting EVERYTHING. I keep a spreadsheet with each job I apply to, when I applied, company contact info, any response. Even jobs that aren't perfect matches but I could do. When I certified I just put yes for looking for work and I've never had an issue. But one year I had a friend who got randomly selected for an eligibility interview about his job search and he couldn't prove what he'd been doing and got disqualified. So keep records!!!!!

I'm in a similar situation - laid off from a niche technical role where there aren't many local opportunities. From what I've learned researching this, you absolutely don't have to apply for jobs you can't realistically take due to distance. EDD recognizes "suitable work" includes reasonable commuting distance considerations. Here's what I'd recommend based on my research: - Apply to manufacturing/machining jobs within your reasonable commute range, even if they're not aerospace specific - Look into quality control, inspection, or maintenance tech roles that use your precision skills - Consider reaching out to local community colleges about machining instructor positions (many value industry experience) - Document everything meticulously - job applications, networking efforts, any skills courses The key is showing genuine effort to find work that's actually feasible for your situation. Your specialized skills are valuable, but you may need to think creatively about how they transfer to other local opportunities. Don't stress too much about having to apply everywhere - EDD wants to see reasonable job search efforts, not impossible commitments.

Just to follow up on this thread - once you get your card, I highly recommend setting up direct deposit from Money Network to your personal bank account. It's much more convenient than using the card, and you avoid any ATM fees or card replacement hassles in the future. You can set it up through the Money Network mobile app or their website after activating your card.

I went through this exact same situation about 6 months ago! The waiting is absolutely maddening when you can see your payment was issued but can't access it. A few tips that helped me: 1. Call Money Network at 1-800-240-0223 early morning (8-9am) or mid-afternoon - avoid Mondays and Fridays if possible 2. When you call, ask them to verify your mailing address matches exactly what's on file with EDD 3. If the card was already sent and potentially lost, they can cancel it and expedite a replacement (usually $10 fee but worth it) 4. Keep your UI Online account handy when you call - they'll ask for your SSN and may need your claim details The whole BofA to Money Network transition has been rocky, so you're definitely not alone in this. Most people I know had some kind of delay or issue with their first card. Hang in there - once you get it sorted, future payments should be much smoother!

Has anyone tried contacting their local assembly member for help? I've heard they can sometimes intervene on your behalf with EDD issues.

I actually managed to change my email with EDD about 3 months ago! Here's what finally worked for me after trying everything else: I kept getting stuck in the online system, so I ended up faxing them a written request with my SSN, claim number, old email, new email, and a copy of my ID. Sent it to their general fax line: (916) 319-5760. Took about 10 business days, but they actually processed it! Got a confirmation letter in the mail saying the change was complete. Sometimes the old-school approach works better than their glitchy website. Make sure to include ALL your info clearly - SSN, claim number, both email addresses, phone number, and sign it. Good luck! 🤞

After reading through all the comments, I think you should take these steps in order: 1. First, try to resolve the held week issue - call EDD or check for notices in your UI Online inbox 2. Have a documented conversation with your supervisor about the skill mismatch 3. If nothing changes, quit with a formal notice that references the skill mismatch 4. Report your work accurately when certifying 5. Prepare all your documentation for the eligibility interview 6. See your doctor to document the anxiety this is causing This strategic approach gives you the strongest case for continuing benefits. Remember that while quitting is always scrutinized by EDD, they do understand legitimate mismatches between job requirements and employee skills, especially when it affects your wellbeing.

I've been through a similar situation and want to add something important that others haven't mentioned: when you have that conversation with your supervisor about the skill mismatch, try to get their response in writing afterward. Send a follow-up email summarizing what was discussed - something like "Per our conversation today, I wanted to confirm that the position requires [specific technical skills] that weren't outlined during the interview process, and that no additional training will be provided." This creates a paper trail that EDD can review during your eligibility interview. Also, regarding your held week - check your UI Online inbox for any notices. Sometimes they send requests for additional information that are easy to miss, and responding quickly can get those payments released faster.

Just to follow up on the original scam text issue - I'd recommend also changing your EDD account password and enabling two-factor authentication if you haven't already. These scammers often have your phone number from data breaches, so it's good to secure your actual account even if you didn't click their link.

Just wanted to add another red flag about these scam texts - they often create a false sense of urgency by saying your payment will be "delayed" or "canceled" if you don't act immediately. Real EDD payments don't work that way. There's no manual verification step required from your end once your claim is approved. The scammers prey on people's anxiety about getting their benefits, but legitimate payments are processed automatically through the system. Stay vigilant everyone!