OMG I'm so glad you asked this question bc I literally had the same exact confusion yesterday!!! The EDD website is seriously from like 1995 or something lol

I had this exact same panic attack during my first certification! The wording is so confusing. Just to add to what others have said - if you ever DO have supplemental unemployment benefits (like from a union or employer fund), they'll usually give you specific paperwork that clearly states it's "SUB pay" or "supplemental unemployment benefits." You'd definitely know if you had it because it would be a separate payment from a different source than EDD. Since you only got the one regular UI payment from EDD, you're definitely good to answer NO. The system really should explain these terms better instead of making us all stress out about it!

Just went through this exact same situation 6 months ago! Here's what worked for me: Call the CUIAB office first thing in the morning (around 8 AM) when they open - you'll have better luck getting through. When you call, ask specifically for your "complete appeal file" and mention you need it to prepare for your hearing. They emailed me a PDF with everything within 2 days. Also, don't panic if your employer's evidence looks bad at first glance. Mine submitted a bunch of write-ups I'd never seen before, but during the hearing it came out that they were backdated and not properly documented according to their own policies. The judge saw right through it. Document everything you have that supports your side - even text messages or informal communications can help your case. You got this!

I'm in a similar situation and this thread has been incredibly helpful! I just wanted to add that when you call CUIAB, make sure to have your Social Security number and case/appeal number ready - they'll need both to pull up your file. Also, if the first person you talk to seems unhelpful or says they can't provide the documents, politely ask to speak with a supervisor. Sometimes the front desk staff aren't fully aware of your rights to access the appeal file. I had to escalate my request but eventually got everything I needed. The whole process is stressful enough without having to fight for basic information you're entitled to. Wishing you the best of luck with your hearing - it sounds like you have a solid case if you were truly laid off due to lack of work!

I'm dealing with something similar right now - been waiting 2.5 weeks for my card and getting really anxious! Reading through all these responses is actually really reassuring because it sounds like this happens more often than I thought. I'm definitely going to try the Money Network website first to see if I can create an account and check the status, then call them early morning like Mei Lin suggested. It's frustrating that EDD doesn't make it clearer that Money Network handles the cards separately - I've been calling EDD this whole time thinking they could help! Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences and solutions.

I'm new to the unemployment system and reading through everyone's experiences here is both helpful and concerning! It sounds like the Money Network card delays are unfortunately pretty common. For those who have dealt with this - once you finally get your card and access your funds, how long does it typically take to switch over to direct deposit? I'm wondering if I should just set up direct deposit from the beginning when I file my claim next week, or if there are any advantages to having the card option as a backup. Also, does anyone know if you can have both payment methods set up simultaneously, or do you have to choose one or the other?

I work as a volunteer advocate helping people navigate EDD issues, and I want to add a few important points to what's already been shared: First, don't give up hope entirely. While 16 months is definitely challenging, I've seen cases where people got partial backdating for severe medical situations. The key is focusing on the period where you have the strongest documentation. Second, when you submit your DE 1181 form, write a detailed timeline explaining exactly how your medical condition prevented you from filing. Don't just say "I was sick" - explain specifically how pregnancy complications affected your ability to complete the application process (hospitalization dates, bed rest periods, etc.). Third, if your initial backdating request gets denied, you have appeal rights. Many people don't know this, but you can request a hearing with an administrative law judge who may be more sympathetic to your circumstances than the initial reviewer. Finally, even if you only get 2-3 months backdated, that's still significant money that can help with your medical bills. Stay persistent but realistic about expectations. Good luck!

I'm new to this community but wanted to share what I learned from my own backdating experience earlier this year. I was able to get 10 weeks backdated due to documented mental health crisis following a family tragedy, but it took 3 months of persistent follow-up. A few tips that helped me: 1) When you call EDD, ask specifically for the "backdating department" - don't just accept talking to the first agent. 2) Keep detailed records of every phone call (date, time, agent name if they give it, what was discussed). 3) Submit your DE 1181 form through multiple channels - online, fax, AND certified mail to create a paper trail. Also, pregnancy complications are considered a legitimate medical reason for backdating, especially if you have documentation of severe symptoms like hyperemesis gravidarum or hospitalization. Focus on the months where you have the strongest medical evidence rather than trying for the full 16 months. One last thing - if you get approved for any backdating, make sure to ask about getting your waiting week waived too. Many people forget about this and miss out on that extra week of benefits. Stay strong and don't give up!

Hey everyone - just wanted to update that my payment just hit my account this morning (Wednesday) at around 5am. So exactly one day later than normal due to the holiday. Hope everyone else got theirs too!

Glad to see everyone's payments came through! This is such a common issue that happens every holiday - I've been dealing with EDD for over a year now and it catches me off guard every single time. You'd think they'd send out some kind of notice or at least put a banner on the website warning people about holiday delays. Would save everyone so much stress and anxiety! For future reference, I always check the federal holiday calendar at the beginning of each month so I know when to expect delays.