Anastasia, I'm really sorry you're going through this - it's especially tough when you've been such a dedicated worker for so many years. I wanted to mention something that might help: since you worked as a private caregiver, you might want to double-check that all your wages were properly reported to EDD when you filed your original claim. Sometimes private caregiving work isn't reported the same way as traditional employment, which could affect your benefit calculation. Also, I've heard that some people in your situation have had success reaching out to their state assembly member's office for help with EDD issues. They sometimes have staff who can cut through the red tape when you can't get through the regular phone lines. For immediate job leads, try contacting licensed home care agencies in your area - they're often more willing to hire quickly than larger institutions, and your 13 years of private care experience would be incredibly appealing to families looking for trustworthy caregivers. Places like Comfort Keepers, Visiting Angels, and A Place at Home are always looking for experienced people. You've got this - your experience and dedication will absolutely pay off!

I just wanted to chime in as someone who went through the exact same situation about 8 months ago. Like you, I had never been on unemployment before and was completely blindsided by how the 26-week limit works versus the benefit year timeframe - it's honestly one of the most confusing aspects of the whole system. One thing I wish I had known earlier: if you do manage to find even temporary or part-time work before your benefit year expires in March, keep track of those earnings carefully. If you earn enough in wages after your original filing date, you might be able to file a new claim once your current benefit year ends. The wage requirement is pretty specific though, so definitely ask EDD about this when you get through. Also, I see others mentioned IHSS - that program was a lifesaver for me. The application process takes a bit of time, but once you're approved as a provider, there's steady work available. Your 13 years of private caregiving experience would make you an ideal candidate. Hang in there - I know how scary this feels, but your experience and work ethic are exactly what employers in the caregiving field are looking for right now. You're going to find something!

Just wanted to chime in as someone who's been through this exact situation twice! The first time I panicked and didn't know what to do, but the second time I followed similar steps to what @862228b31263 shared and it went much smoother. A few additional tips from my experience: 1) When you call that direct number (1-866-401-2849), have your claim number and the exact date the check was issued ready - they'll ask for it immediately, 2) If you're setting up direct deposit, double and triple check your routing and account numbers because even one wrong digit will cause more delays, and 3) Keep calling notes with dates/times/rep names in case you need to follow up. The whole system is frustrating but there are definitely ways to navigate it if you're persistent. Glad this thread exists to help people through these situations!

This entire thread is gold! I'm dealing with a returned check situation right now and was about to lose my mind trying to get through to EDD. Seeing @862228b31263's success story and all the practical advice from everyone gives me hope. I'm definitely going to try the Claimyr service and that direct number (1-866-401-2849). Quick question - for those who've used Claimyr, how much does it typically cost? I'm already stressed about money so want to know what I'm looking at. Also planning to set up direct deposit immediately like everyone suggested. Thanks for sharing all these real-world solutions!

IT'S BACK UP! Just certified successfully. For anyone still having issues, try again now. Seems like they fixed whatever was causing the Access Gateway error. Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions!

Just wanted to add for anyone who finds this thread later - if you're getting the Access Gateway error, don't panic! This seems to be a recurring issue during certification periods. I had the same problem a few months ago and here's what worked: try incognito/private browsing mode, and if that doesn't work, the phone certification line (1-866-333-4606) is actually pretty reliable even when the website is down. Press 1 for English, then follow the prompts. It takes about 10 minutes once you get through. Keep that tracking ID number handy though - it's your proof that the system was having issues!

One more important thing to consider - when you're substitute teaching, make sure you report the exact hours and earnings for the specific weeks they fall in. Don't combine weeks or estimate. For example: - If you work 3 hours on Monday at $25/hr, report $75 for that week - If you work 6 hours the following Tuesday at $25/hr, report $150 for that week Incorrect reporting is what typically triggers the payment delays and eligibility interviews. Also, make sure you understand how Florida's substitute teaching payment system works - some districts pay weekly, others bi-weekly or monthly. Report the income in the week you EARNED it, not when you received the payment.

I went through something very similar last year! I'm a seasonal park ranger in CA who spends winters in Texas doing occasional freelance work. Here's what I learned the hard way: First, definitely report ALL substitute teaching income accurately - they will eventually find out through wage matching with other states. I made the mistake of trying to "simplify" my reporting and it triggered a 6-week investigation. Second, when you do your certifications, be super detailed in the comments section. I now write something like: "Substitute teaching - sporadic daily assignments, no guaranteed hours, actively seeking full-time employment in primary field." Third, prepare for potential delays. Even when you do everything right, out-of-state work often triggers their fraud detection system. Keep documentation of everything - your work search activities, the sporadic nature of the substitute work, proof that your California job is truly seasonal. The good news is that you ARE entitled to collect CA unemployment while temporarily in Florida since your qualifying wages are from California. Just be prepared for possible payment holds while they verify everything. It's frustrating but legitimate, and they will eventually pay you for any weeks you were eligible. Pro tip: If you do get flagged for an interview, having all your documentation organized beforehand makes the process much smoother!

Hey Andre! I'm new here but went through something similar last year. One thing that really helped me was getting organized before contacting EDD. I created a simple spreadsheet with all my employment dates, pay periods, and amounts - it made explaining my situation to the rep much easier. Also, since you mentioned your employer was a tech startup, make sure to check if they're even still in business. Some smaller companies shut down without properly handling final payroll obligations. If that's the case, you might need to go through additional steps with the Labor Commissioner. Keep pushing on this - the system is frustrating but you have rights and the documentation to back up your claim. Don't let them wear you down!

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now! My previous employer (a small marketing agency) also failed to report wages to EDD and it's been a nightmare. One thing that helped speed up my case was contacting the employer directly FIRST before filing the wage investigation - sometimes they just made an administrative error and can fix it quickly by submitting a corrected wage report. If you still have any contacts at the company (former coworkers, managers), try reaching out to see if someone can connect you with whoever handles payroll/HR. Even if the person who let you go is gone, there might be someone else who can help resolve the wage reporting issue. Also, when you do call EDD, ask specifically for the "Benefit Accuracy Measurement" (BAM) unit - they handle wage disputes and seem to be more knowledgeable than the general customer service reps. I waited 3 hours on hold but actually got someone who knew what they were talking about. Good luck with this - don't give up! The system is broken but your case sounds pretty straightforward with all the documentation you have.