Just wanted to add that I went through something similar when I started my freelance writing business while still doing part-time retail work. The key thing that helped me was keeping detailed records of everything - hours worked on my business, all W-2 earnings, job search activities, etc. When I had my phone interview with EDD, the representative actually appreciated that I was so organized and transparent about my situation. She explained that as long as I was genuinely available for full-time work (not turning down job offers to focus on my business) and actively job searching, I could continue receiving partial benefits. One tip: when you report your self-employment hours, be realistic about time spent on actual business activities vs. just thinking about your business. EDD cares about active work hours, not passive planning time. Document everything in case you need to provide details later!

I'm actually going through this exact situation right now! I started a consulting business in January but haven't landed any clients yet, while also doing occasional temp work through agencies. After reading all these responses, I called EDD using that Claimyr service someone mentioned (took about 30 minutes to get through) and got some really helpful clarification. The rep told me that since I'm actively job searching and available for full-time W-2 work, I can still qualify for partial benefits. The key things she emphasized: - Report ALL self-employment hours during certification, even with $0 income - Be specific about actual work time vs just brainstorming - Continue meeting work search requirements (3 job contacts per week in my area) - Report any W-2 earnings accurately She also mentioned that EDD has a specific form (DE 1378) for self-employed individuals that might be helpful to fill out proactively. The whole conversation was recorded on their end, which gives me peace of mind that I'm following their guidance correctly. Definitely recommend getting official guidance rather than risking it - the penalties for misreporting can be really harsh!

THE EDD SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO FAIL US! They DELIBERATELY make it confusing about extensions and new claims so people give up. I've been through this THREE TIMES now and every time it's different rules and requirements. They'll probably tell you that your 3 months of work isn't enough for a new claim. The whole thing is RIGGED against workers!!!!

My benefits ran out last year and I had to wait until my benefit year ended before I could file again. During that time I picked up gig work doing DoorDash and Instacart - not great money but it helped bridge the gap. Just something to consider while you're waiting to qualify for a new claim.

For anyone else who encounters this issue in the future: This appears to be related to the 2025 system update EDD implemented for their identity verification process. They're now using an automated flagging system that sometimes generates verification requests with extremely short timelines that aren't even in compliance with their own policies (which require minimum 10 days notice). If you receive a verification request, take screenshots immediately and upload your documents as soon as possible. Don't wait until the deadline, even if it seems reasonable. The system has been known to accelerate disqualifications unpredictably.

This is exactly the kind of thing that makes me so frustrated with EDD! I'm glad you were able to get it resolved by actually talking to someone. I've been dealing with a pending verification for 3 weeks now and this thread is making me nervous that something similar might happen to me. Going to try calling first thing Monday morning. Quick question - when you uploaded your documents after the rep fixed everything, did you get any kind of confirmation that they received them? I submitted mine through the portal but never got any acknowledgment and I'm paranoid they didn't go through properly.

Just wanted to add my recent experience - filed my UI claim on March 15th after being laid off from my retail job. Got approved yesterday (March 28th) so exactly 13 days, which was actually faster than their 2-week estimate! I think what helped was that I had all my documents ready and my employer didn't contest it. The key things I did: checked UI Online daily, responded to one request for additional wage verification within 24 hours, and started my certifications immediately even while pending. Already set up my Money Network card too. Seems like if you have a straightforward case with no complications, they're actually meeting or beating their timeline estimates in 2025. Hope this helps ease some anxiety!

Just wanted to share my recent experience as another data point! Filed my claim on March 22nd after being laid off from my tech support job. Got my approval notification this morning (March 29th) - so exactly 7 days! I was honestly shocked because I was expecting the full 2 weeks. My situation was pretty straightforward though - single employer for 2+ years, clear layoff documentation, and I had already done the ID.me verification last year when I helped my sister with her claim. I think having that ID verification already done might have sped things up? Also made sure to upload my final paystub and layoff letter right when I filed, even though they didn't specifically request them yet. Currently waiting for my Money Network card info to set that up. Seems like 2025 processing times are much better than the horror stories from 2020-2021!

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've been struggling with the same issue! Just wanted to share that if you're still waiting, you might want to try calling right when they open at 8 AM - that seems to be when you have the best chance of getting through. Also, don't hang up if you get the busy signal, sometimes it will eventually connect you to the queue. Good luck everyone!