UPDATE: We were able to log into the UI Online account and found several messages from the past 3 months that we never knew about (they didn't email notifications). Looks like they did try to contact us but we had no idea we needed to check this account years after benefits ended. Going to request an appeal tomorrow and gather all our documentation. Thanks everyone for your help!

This is so frustrating but unfortunately becoming very common. I went through something similar last year - got hit with a $1,400 overpayment notice from 2021 that came completely out of nowhere. In my case, it turned out EDD had misclassified some of my freelance work and double-counted income that I had properly reported during certification. The key thing is to act fast on that 30-day appeal deadline. When you gather your documentation, make sure to get: - Your original UI claim records showing what you reported each week - Any W-2s or 1099s from that time period - Screenshots of the UI Online messages you just found (this could help your case since you clearly weren't properly notified) Also document the financial hardship this is causing - the fact that they took your tax refund without proper notice could strengthen both your appeal and any waiver request. The system is definitely overwhelmed and making errors, so don't assume they're right just because it's the government. Good luck with your appeal!

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

Thank you Tom for taking the time to do this AMA! I've been struggling to reach EDD for weeks about my pending claim. How quickly can Claimyr typically get someone connected to a representative, and what's the success rate? Also, are there any specific types of EDD issues that Claimyr works better for than others?

So glad to hear you got through @Carmen! That gives me hope. I'm dealing with a similar situation but for regular unemployment benefits - lost access to my account after changing phones and can't remember my security questions. Has anyone had success using that same SDI number (1-800-480-3287) for regular UI issues, or do I need to stick with the main unemployment line? I've been trying the main number for over a week with no luck.

If you're still having trouble getting through by phone, another option is to contact your local Assembly or Senate representative's office. They often have dedicated EDD liaisons who can help with urgent cases like yours. I had to do this for my mom when she couldn't get through for her disability claim. Just call their district office and explain it's an urgent SDI filing issue - they usually respond within 1-2 business days and can sometimes get things resolved faster than going through the normal channels. You can find your representatives at findyourrep.legislature.ca.gov. Worth trying if the direct calling doesn't work out!

I went through something similar last year and want to share a few practical tips that helped me: First, document EVERYTHING from this point forward - take photos of all notices, keep records of every phone call attempt, save all emails. Second, while you're gathering evidence for your appeal, also start collecting your financial documents (pay stubs, bank statements, bills) in case you need to apply for a hardship waiver later. Third, if your former restaurant is still closed, try to find any former coworkers or managers who can provide witness statements about the layoff. Even text messages or social media posts from that time period showing the restaurant closure can be helpful evidence. The most important thing is don't let the 30-day appeal deadline pass! Even if you don't have all your documentation yet, file the appeal on time and mention you're still gathering supporting evidence. You can usually submit additional documents later. Stay strong - these determinations get overturned all the time when people fight them properly!

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this stress - it's absolutely infuriating when EDD drops these bombshells years later! But reading through all the advice here, it sounds like you actually have a really strong case for appeal. The "without fault" designation is huge, and the fact that it's only questioning 2 months rather than your entire claim suggests this could very well be a simple paperwork error. Here's what I'd prioritize if I were in your shoes: 1) File that appeal TODAY - don't wait for perfect documentation, just get it submitted within the 30-day window, 2) Log into your EDD online account and look for the detailed determination letter to see exactly what your employer reported, 3) Start reaching out to former coworkers who can confirm the layoff situation, and 4) Dig through your old files for that final paycheck stub or any termination paperwork. I also want to echo what others said about contacting your state representative's office - they have staff specifically for EDD issues and can sometimes work miracles. And definitely consider using that Claimyr service someone mentioned if you need to actually talk to an EDD rep. The most important thing is don't let them intimidate you into just accepting this. These determinations get overturned all the time when people fight them with proper documentation. You were legitimately laid off and deserve those benefits. Fight for yourself - you've got this!

For technical issues specifically, make sure to tell the agent exactly what error messages you're seeing. They have different procedures for different types of lockouts.

I've been dealing with this exact same issue for the past 10 days! My account got locked after I accidentally used an old password a few times, and I've been calling the 800-300-5616 number constantly with no luck. Reading through all these comments, it sounds like Claimyr might be my best bet at this point. Has anyone had any luck with the early morning calling strategy, or is the auto-dialer service really the only reliable way to get through? I'm getting desperate since I'm already behind on my certifications.