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Can I apply for EDD benefits BEFORE my layoff date? (Layoff happening next week)
Just found out my company is doing a round of layoffs on the 20th (next week) and my department is definitely affected. I'm pretty sure I'll be one of the people let go based on seniority. Question - can I actually start the EDD application process now, before I'm officially laid off? Or do I have to wait until after my last day? Also wondering if EDD is still backed up with claims like they were during COVID? I heard horror stories about people waiting months to get their first payment. Really need to know what to expect since rent is due on the 1st and I only have enough savings to cover one more month. Any advice appreciated!
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EDD account registration error with EDDCAN number - anyone else having this problem?
I got my EDDCAN number in the mail last week (filed my initial UI claim on 4/12/25), but when I try to register my account online, the system keeps rejecting it with some vague error message. I've triple-checked all my info - birthdate, SSN, name spelled exactly as on the letter - but nothing works! The error just says "information cannot be verified" which isn't helpful at all. Has anyone experienced this? Do I need to wait longer after filing before I can register? It's been about 10 days now and I'm getting worried because I can't certify without setting up my UI Online account. Any advice would be really appreciated!
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my friend had this probem turns out she was using her social security # instead of EDDCAN # lol check ur not doin that
That's a good point! The registration asks for BOTH pieces of information on different screens, so it's easy to get confused about which number goes where. The EDDCAN is usually 10 digits.
UPDATE: IT WORKED! I waited until exactly 14 business days after filing, entered my name in ALL CAPS, and it finally accepted my registration! Thanks everyone for your help. Now I just need to figure out how to backdate my certifications since I missed my first certification period while dealing with this registration issue...
That's awesome news! So glad the ALL CAPS trick worked for you. For backdating your certifications, you'll need to call EDD and explain that you couldn't register due to the system error. They should be able to backdate your first certification period since it wasn't your fault. Make sure to mention that you tried multiple times starting 10 days after filing but the system kept rejecting your registration. They're usually pretty understanding about technical issues preventing timely certification.
EDD unemployment eligibility after quitting job to care for terminally ill family member?
I've been on PFL (Paid Family Leave) for the past 6 weeks caring for my older sister who has terminal lung cancer. My PFL benefits just ran out last week, but she still needs full-time care and has maybe 2-3 months left according to her doctors. I had to officially resign from my position as a medical assistant because my employer needed someone reliable long-term and couldn't hold my job any longer. I've worked at that clinic for almost 3 years before this happened. Once my sister passes, I'll need to find work again, but in the meantime, would I qualify for unemployment benefits? Or am I disqualified because I technically quit? I've heard mixed things about "good cause" for leaving a job, but I'm not sure if family caregiving counts. Has anyone been in a similar situation or know what EDD considers valid in these cases?
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just wondering but have u looked into hospice care? they might be able to provide some respite care so u could work part time maybe? just a thought.
Yes, we do have hospice coming 3 times a week, but they're only here for about an hour each visit. It's helpful but not enough for me to maintain regular work hours. We're looking into additional options though.
I'm so sorry you're going through this with your sister. What you're doing is incredibly selfless. Based on what others have shared here, it sounds like you have a strong case for "good cause" quitting, especially since you were already on PFL and had medical documentation. One thing I'd add - when you do your eligibility interview with EDD, emphasize that you explored all other options before resigning (sounds like you did with your employer trying to accommodate you initially). Also mention that this is temporary caregiving with a defined end, not an indefinite situation. Have you considered reaching out to your local Area Agency on Aging? They sometimes have additional caregiver support resources that might help stretch the care coverage you're getting. Wishing you and your sister strength during this time.
Getting backpay for 3 weeks between EDD claim effective date and issue date?
So confused about my backpay situation! I just got approved for unemployment (finally) and I have a quick question. My claim effective date shows as July 10th, 2025, but my issue date isn't until July 30th. That's almost 3 weeks difference! Am I supposed to get paid for those weeks in between? I was definitely unemployed during that time but wasn't sure if I'm supposed to certify for them or if the system automatically gives me backpay. Does anyone know how this works? I've tried calling EDD but you know how that goes...impossible to reach anyone. I really need those 3 weeks of benefits if I'm entitled to them!
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hey so did u ever get ur backpay? im in this same situation now and wondering if it worked out
Yes! I got it about 3 days after certifying for those weeks. The money came through on my EDD Money Network card just like regular payments. Definitely worth calling about!
This is really helpful info! I'm dealing with a similar gap between my effective date and issue date (about 2 weeks). Reading through this thread, it sounds like the key is to specifically ask EDD to add those weeks for certification - they don't automatically show up in UI Online. Thanks for sharing your experience and the step-by-step process. It's frustrating that we have to chase down benefits we're legally entitled to, but at least now I know what to ask for when I call. Going to try calling tomorrow morning!
Where's a physical SDI office in San Diego? Online system frustrating me
I'm at my wit's end trying to handle my state disability claim online. The EDD website keeps timing out when I try to upload my medical certification, and the phone lines are a complete joke - I've called 37 times in the past week and either get disconnected or told the queue is full. Has anyone successfully visited an actual physical EDD office in San Diego to handle SDI issues? Do they even exist anymore? I'm willing to drive anywhere in San Diego County at this point just to talk to a real human being who can help me get my claim processed before my savings run out completely. Any addresses or experiences with in-person SDI offices would be GREATLY appreciated!!
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Just to update everyone on this thread: As of 2025, the EDD has launched a new "SDI Connect" pilot program in certain counties (including San Diego) where they're testing hybrid services. There are now limited in-person assistance options by appointment only at the Chula Vista AJCC location. You can schedule through the SDI Online portal under "Contact Us" → "Schedule In-Person Assistance." Appointments are very limited though, so online and phone are still the primary service channels.
This is fantastic news! I just logged into my SDI Online account and found the appointment scheduler. There was a spot available next Tuesday at the Chula Vista location. I've booked it and feel so much better knowing I'll actually get to speak with someone face-to-face. Thank you so much for sharing this update!
That's great to hear about the pilot program! I've been helping people with EDD claims for years and this is the first I've heard about the SDI Connect program. Makes sense they'd start testing it in larger counties first. Please post an update after your appointment so others can know what to expect!
I'm so glad to see this thread - dealing with SDI can feel incredibly isolating when you're already dealing with health issues! Just wanted to add that if you're having trouble with the upload feature specifically, try using a different browser or clearing your cache/cookies. I had similar issues last month where the upload would get stuck at 95% and then time out. Switched from Chrome to Firefox and it worked immediately. Also, make sure your document files are under 10MB each - the system doesn't always give you a clear error message if they're too large. Hope you get your appointment sorted and can finally get some help!
Malik Jackson
Quick note on timing - your benefit week for EDD runs Sunday through Saturday. If you're laid off on the 20th and that's a Monday-Friday (not sure what day of week), file your claim that weekend. Your claim will be effective as of the Sunday beginning that week. Also, after you file, expect to receive several pieces of mail from EDD within about 10 days: 1. Notice of Unemployment Insurance Claim Filed 2. Notice of Unemployment Insurance Award 3. EDD Customer Account Number 4. Continued Claim Form(s) You'll need to certify for benefits every two weeks. Set a calendar reminder so you don't forget - this is where a lot of people experience payment delays.
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Axel Far
Just went through this exact process two months ago when my tech company did layoffs. Here's what I wish someone had told me: 1. **Wait until after your last day** - Don't risk filing early. I know it's tempting but it can cause major headaches with your claim. 2. **File immediately the day after** - I filed on a Tuesday after being laid off Monday, and my claim was effective the Sunday of that week. Every day you wait is potentially lost benefits. 3. **Gather everything beforehand**: W-2s, pay stubs, employer contact info, previous job details for 18 months. Having this ready made the application process much smoother. 4. **Processing is definitely faster now** - My claim was approved in 8 days and I got my first payment 2 weeks after filing. Way better than the COVID nightmare stories. 5. **Set up direct deposit immediately** - Skip the EDD debit card hassle if you can. The waiting is the worst part, but hang in there. Also start your job search documentation right away since you'll need to show work search activities when you certify. Feel free to ask if you have other questions - happy to help someone avoid the mistakes I made!
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