I went through this exact same situation last year with my employer's holiday shutdown. Just wanted to add a few things that helped me: 1. Keep all documentation from your employer about the shutdown dates - emails, notices, etc. EDD sometimes asks for proof it's temporary 2. If you have any unused vacation days, your company might let you use them for some of the unpaid days instead of taking the full hit 3. The online application actually handles temporary layoffs pretty well now - just make sure to select "temporary layoff" and put in your expected return date The whole process was way less stressful than I expected. Got my benefits for the second week without any issues. Good luck!

I've been through this same situation multiple times over the years. Definitely file for unemployment - temporary layoffs absolutely qualify! A few things that really helped me: 1. File your claim about a week before the shutdown starts if possible. This gives EDD time to process it before you actually need the benefits. 2. When you certify for benefits, be super precise about which days you worked vs didn't work. For the holiday pay days, mark those as worked and report the exact amount you received. 3. Keep a copy of any company communication about the shutdown dates and return date. I've never been asked for it, but it's good to have just in case. 4. The waiting period situation has changed a few times, so definitely check the current rules when you file. Even if there is one, getting benefits for the second week still makes a real difference. The whole process is pretty straightforward for temporary layoffs now compared to a few years ago. The online system handles it well and you shouldn't need to call unless something gets stuck. Good luck with your claim!

Thank you for the step-by-step! That makes it super clear. I'm going to set mine up for both text and email too.

I've been using the Money Network card for about 6 months now and wanted to share a few tips that might help! First, definitely set up those notifications - they're a lifesaver. But also download the Money Network mobile app if you haven't already. It's way easier to check your balance quickly on your phone than logging into the website every time. The app also sends push notifications which I find more reliable than SMS sometimes. One thing to watch out for - there are ATM fees if you use machines outside their network, so look for MoneyPass ATMs to avoid those charges. You can find locations on their website. Hope this helps!

FINAL UPDATE: Just wanted to close the loop on this - my payments went from pending to paid this morning! Took exactly 2 business days after completing the ID verification. All three weeks of my claim were paid at once. So relieved this worked out. For anyone with similar issues, don't wait - call EDD right away and get your ID verification sorted out!

This is such a helpful thread! I'm dealing with a similar situation right now - filed my claim 2 weeks ago and just realized I never got any ID.me verification link. My eligibility interview is scheduled for next week, but now I'm worried they won't even process it if my identity isn't verified first. Should I try to get the ID verification sorted out before my interview, or does the order not matter? Also, for those who used Claimyr, did you have any issues with the service or was it pretty straightforward?

What kind of issue did you identify? Sometimes depending on the problem, there are different ways to handle it.

Hey Natasha! I went through something similar a few months ago. EDD told me they'd call back within a week, but it actually took almost 3 weeks. My advice: don't just wait around for them. Keep calling their main number (1-833-978-2511) early in the morning around 8 AM when they open - you'll have a better chance of getting through. Also, document everything - write down when you reported the issue, any reference numbers they gave you, etc. If it's been more than 2 weeks with no callback, definitely try contacting your assembly member like Omar suggested. They can sometimes light a fire under EDD to get things moving. Hang in there!

OK, here's what I've learned after dealing with this for 3 months: 1. Keep trying the website at odd hours. Like 2 AM or 6 AM. 2. If you get an error, screenshot it and note the time/date. 3. Call right when they open (usually 8 AM) and be prepared to redial for an hour. 4. If you get through, explain the online errors. They might be able to override. 5. Check your spam folder for emails from them. 6. Make sure all your info matches exactly what's on your W-2. 7. If all else fails, try the claimyr service someone mentioned or contact your state rep. Hang in there, it's a nightmare but you'll get through eventually!

I'm dealing with the same exact issue! The website crashes every single time I try to submit my claim. I've been unemployed for 2 weeks now and still can't get through the system. Has anyone tried filing by mail as a backup option? I'm wondering if that might be more reliable than the online portal right now. Also, does anyone know if there are specific browser requirements that might help? I've tried Chrome and Safari with no luck.