Thanks everyone for all the helpful information! I've learned so much. To summarize what I understand now: 1. I should qualify based on my earnings ($16,500 over 7 months is above minimum) 2. My "reduction in workforce" termination should be considered no-fault 3. I need to check exactly which quarters count in my base period 4. I should prepare for my eligibility interview by having my termination details ready 5. There's a one-week waiting period before benefits start 6. I need to keep detailed records of my job search (at least 3 per week) I'll update this thread after my eligibility interview next week! Fingers crossed everything goes smoothly.

Good luck with your interview, Zara! You seem well-prepared now. Just wanted to add one more thing - during your eligibility interview, be honest and straightforward about everything. Don't try to overthink your answers or volunteer extra information they don't ask for. They're mainly verifying the basic facts: when you worked, how much you earned, and why your employment ended. Also, if you haven't already, make sure you have your last pay stub and any termination paperwork from Target handy during the call. Sometimes they ask for specific dates or wage amounts and it's good to have the exact numbers ready. You've got this! The fact that you're being proactive about understanding the process puts you ahead of a lot of people. Keep us posted on how it goes!

Thank you everyone for the helpful responses! I'm definitely going to continue keeping detailed records and doing legitimate job searches. The potential consequences aren't worth the risk. I'll check out CalJOBS and set up that email folder system too. Better safe than sorry!

Smart decision to keep doing everything legitimately! I've been on unemployment twice and always kept meticulous records - it's definitely worth the extra effort for peace of mind. One tip that helped me: I started using a simple Google Form to log my job search activities in real-time instead of trying to remember everything later. You just fill it out right after applying somewhere and it automatically creates a spreadsheet with timestamps. Way easier than manually maintaining records and you'll never forget the details. Plus having that timestamp data could be really helpful if you ever need to prove when you applied somewhere.

did ur claim status change in ur ui online? sometimes they aprove it without even doing the interview that happend to my roomate

I went through something similar last year! The key thing is don't panic - they really do call within that 7-day window they mentioned in the voicemail. In my experience, they usually try again around the same time of day as the original missed call, so maybe try to keep your schedule lighter around 2-3pm over the next few days. Also, make sure your voicemail greeting is professional and mentions you're expecting an important call from EDD - sometimes that helps them know they have the right person. The fact that they left a voicemail is actually a good sign that your case is still active. Hang in there!

Thanks everyone for the helpful information! My dad called EDD this morning (using Claimyr actually - that worked amazingly well!) and got it sorted out. The representative confirmed that while he does need to report his Social Security retirement under "other income" when certifying, it won't reduce his unemployment benefits. They also helped him correct his previous certifications, and since he self-reported the error, there won't be any penalties. Such a relief! He'll make sure to report correctly going forward.

So glad everything worked out for your dad! This is such a common confusion point for people receiving both benefits. For anyone else reading this thread who might be in a similar situation - the key takeaways are: 1) Always report Social Security retirement income under "other income" when certifying, 2) In California, it won't reduce your UI benefits but must still be reported, 3) If you realize you've made an error in previous certifications, self-report it ASAP to avoid penalties. The EDD representatives are generally understanding when you're proactive about fixing mistakes. Thanks for updating us on the resolution!

good luck!!! the system is frustrating but once its set up its fine just dont miss certification days

Hey Diego! One more tip that saved me - download the EDD mobile app ahead of time and make sure you can log into your UI Online account from both your phone and computer. Sometimes the website crashes during peak hours (like Monday mornings when everyone's certifying), so having backup access methods is crucial. Also, if you're in tech or any industry where you might get contract/freelance work while collecting UI, make sure you understand the earnings reporting rules. You can work part-time and still collect partial benefits, but you MUST report any income when you certify or you'll get hit with an overpayment penalty later. The waiting is stressful but you're being smart by planning ahead. Most people don't prepare like this and end up scrambling. You've got this! 💪