Just to be 100% clear for you and anyone else reading this thread in the future: 1. Report work when you PERFORM it, not when you get paid 2. If you worked before your claim began, that work is not reportable on certifications 3. If you're ever unsure, contact EDD directly for guidance specific to your situation Following these guidelines will keep your claim in good standing.

I went through something very similar last year! Had a freelance project that I completed right before filing, but didn't get paid until after my claim was approved. I was so stressed about it, but after reading through EDD's guidelines multiple times and talking to a rep, I learned that Carmen is absolutely right - it's all about when you performed the work, not when the payment arrived. Since you did the work before your claim period began, you don't need to report it on your current certification. The key thing is that you already included this work history when you initially applied, so EDD has a record of it. You're handling this exactly right by asking questions instead of just guessing!

Just wanted to add that when you do get your first payment, don't be surprised if it takes a few extra days to process initially. My first certification was approved on a Tuesday, but the funds didn't hit my card until Friday. After that, subsequent payments have been much faster - usually next day. Also, make sure you save the Money Network customer service number (it's on the back of your card) in case you ever need to report the card lost or stolen. Unlike regular bank cards, there can be delays getting replacements since it goes through EDD's system. Good luck with your job search!

Welcome to the unemployment world, Natalie! That's definitely the legitimate EDD card - I got the same black Brinks Mastercard when I filed earlier this year. The design change threw a lot of people off at first. Just a heads up from someone who's been through this process: once you activate the card and start receiving payments, consider setting up text alerts through the Money Network app so you'll know immediately when funds are deposited. Also, if you have a local credit union, check if they reimburse ATM fees - mine does, which helps offset those Money Network charges everyone mentioned. The job market is tough right now but hang in there - having that safety net makes the search less stressful. Best of luck with your certification this weekend!

I've been dealing with EDD issues for months and here's what I've learned: First, make sure you're using the right browser - Chrome or Firefox work best. Clear all your cookies and cache, then try accessing the site in incognito/private mode. If you're still getting the error, it might be because you have an existing claim that needs to be closed or there's a flag on your account. The system is notorious for giving vague error messages when there are backend issues. Document everything - take screenshots of the error messages and keep notes of when you tried to file. This will help when you eventually get through to someone on the phone. Also, try filing during off-peak hours like early morning or late evening when the servers aren't overloaded. Good luck, and don't give up! The system is frustrating but you'll get through it eventually.

I went through this exact same nightmare last year! The error messages are so unhelpful - it's like they designed them to be as vague as possible. Here's what finally worked for me: Try using a completely different browser (if you're on Chrome, try Firefox or Safari), make sure JavaScript is enabled, and disable any ad blockers temporarily. Also, check if you have any pending identity verification - sometimes the system blocks new claims if there's an ID.me verification that wasn't completed. If none of that works, you might need to call the technical support line (not the regular claim line) - it's 1-833-978-2511. They can actually see what's causing the error on their end. Hang in there, the system is absolutely broken but you'll get through it!

I'm jumping in here as someone who went through a very similar situation about two years ago. Like you, I was a healthcare worker who made mistakes on my UI claim during COVID - I failed to report some per diem shifts properly and also received some COVID-related pay that I didn't report correctly. The most important thing I learned is that the EDD really does distinguish between intentional fraud and honest mistakes, especially when you self-report like you did. My case took almost 14 months to resolve (yes, the wait is brutal!), but when it finally did, it was classified as non-fraud overpayment. Here's what happened in my case: I ended up owing about $3,400 back, paid a 30% penalty (so roughly $4,400 total), and they set me up on a payment plan of $150/month. No criminal issues whatsoever. The EDD representative I finally spoke with actually thanked me for being proactive in reporting the errors. Your medical documentation is going to be crucial - make sure you have everything organized. Since you were legitimately unable to work due to a medical condition, there's a good chance you might have qualified for SDI instead. When you eventually get through to them, ask about potentially converting or adjusting your claim to the correct program. The anxiety is absolutely terrible - I completely understand the sleepless nights. But based on your description, everything points to this being resolved as a standard administrative overpayment. You did the right thing by being honest from the start.

I'm new to this community but wanted to reach out after reading your post because I'm dealing with some EDD anxiety myself, though not quite as severe as yours. What really stands out to me is how responsibly you've handled everything - you had legitimate medical reasons for needing time off, you self-reported your mistakes proactively, and you've kept all your documentation organized. Reading through all the responses here has been really educational for me too. The consensus from people with actual experience seems very clear: jail time is not something you need to worry about for self-reported honest mistakes like yours. The amounts involved are relatively small, you have medical documentation, and you disclosed everything voluntarily - these are all major factors working in your favor. I know the waiting is absolutely brutal (I'm dealing with my own EDD delays on a different issue), but it sounds like when this finally gets resolved, it'll be a straightforward repayment situation rather than anything criminal. The fact that you're a healthcare worker who dealt with COVID complications should also be taken into account by the EDD. Everyone here has given such great advice about staying organized, understanding the difference between fraud and non-fraud overpayments, and knowing your options when you eventually get that determination letter. You've clearly done everything right from the beginning, and that integrity is going to matter when your case is finally reviewed. Hang in there - the uncertainty is awful, but you're going to get through this!

congrats!! now make sure he dosnt miss ANY certifications or they will close his claim so fast!!!!

That's awesome news! 16 days is pretty typical right now from what I've seen. Just a heads up - once he gets his account set up, he'll need to certify for benefits every two weeks (usually on Sunday). The system will tell him exactly when his next certification is due. Also, if he's been unemployed since he applied, he might be able to certify for those past weeks retroactively to get payments for the time he's been waiting. Make sure he doesn't skip that step!