UPDATE: Finally got this resolved! For anyone with similar issues - I called this morning and specifically asked about both the August system update AND if there were any stop payment alerts. The rep confirmed there was a system error that affected accounts certifying on the last weekend of August (which is when I certified). They had to manually override something in the system and release my payments. The money should be in my account within 48 hours! Thank you everyone for your help - especially the tip about asking for a Tier 2 specialist and mentioning the August update specifically. That seemed to immediately help the rep understand my issue.

That's amazing news! So glad you got it resolved. This is really helpful for others who might be dealing with the same August system update issue. I'm curious - did they mention if this is still affecting other accounts, or have they mostly fixed the underlying problem? Also, did you end up needing to do those paper certifications they mentioned, or did the manual override make that unnecessary?

I went through a similar situation last year with an "able and available" overpayment for caregiving. The good news is that temporary family caregiving can qualify for exceptions, especially if you properly disclosed it during certification. When you appeal, emphasize that you were transparent about your situation and had every intention of returning to work once your mom recovered. I also recommend calling your local Assembly member's office - they often have caseworkers who can help expedite EDD issues. Mine helped me get my appeal resolved in 6 weeks instead of months. Document everything and don't let them intimidate you into paying without fighting it first!

I'm so sorry you're going through this stress - I know exactly how overwhelming it feels! I had a similar overpayment notice for $4,200 last year and was terrified. The most important thing is DON'T PANIC and don't ignore it. Since you were caring for your mom and reported it during certification, you actually have a strong case for appeal. The "able and available" requirement has specific exceptions for temporary family caregiving situations. When I appealed mine, I gathered all my certification records showing I was honest about my situation, medical documentation for my family member, and a detailed timeline of events. I also filed for the overpayment waiver (DE 1446W form) at the same time, documenting my financial hardship. The whole process took about 3 months, but I ended up getting 80% of the overpayment waived. During the appeal process, they can't garnish your wages or take collection action, which gives you breathing room. Stay strong - you reported everything honestly and that matters a lot in these cases!

I went through this exact same situation about two months ago! First certification on a new claim, and I was freaking out because it stayed pending for 4 days straight. Called EDD multiple times but couldn't get through. Finally it processed on the 5th day and I got both weeks at once. Now that I'm a few certifications in, my payments usually process within 24-48 hours. The waiting is brutal but it really does seem to be their new normal for first certifications. Hang in there - sounds like yours should process soon based on what others are saying about the estimated dates!

I'm going through this exact same thing right now! Just certified for my second week on a new claim and it's been pending for 2 days. Reading through all these comments is actually really helpful - I had no idea EDD changed their processing so much since 2023. The estimated processing date feature is clutch though, mine shows it should be done by Thursday. It's definitely stressful when you're used to the old instant system, but sounds like this is just the new reality for first few certifications. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences, makes me feel way less anxious about it!

I'm new here but had to chime in because I went through something very similar! EDD sent me an overpayment notice 7 months after my benefits ended - turned out my employer had contested my claim months after I'd already been approved and receiving benefits. The whole process was incredibly stressful, especially since I'd already moved on and was working again. What really helped me was keeping detailed records of everything - every phone call, every piece of mail, every document I submitted. I also learned that EDD has specific timelines they have to follow for processing appeals, so don't let them drag their feet if you don't hear back within reasonable timeframes. Your roommate is lucky to have you helping her through this - having someone to organize paperwork and research the process makes a huge difference when you're already stressed about money.

I just wanted to add something that might be helpful for your roommate's situation. When EDD sends overpayment notices this late, it's often because they're conducting what's called a "cross-match" review where they compare employer records with benefit claims. Since her former employer is now claiming misconduct instead of layoff, this sounds like a classic case where the employer initially didn't contest the claim (maybe they were disorganized or understaffed) and then later decided to challenge it, possibly to reduce their unemployment insurance taxes. The good news is that if she has that layoff letter mentioning department restructuring, she's in a strong position. I'd also suggest she request her complete claim file from EDD - sometimes there are notes or communications in there that can help her case. You can request this by calling or writing to EDD, and it's free. Having the full picture of what was originally reported vs. what the employer is now claiming can really help strengthen her appeal.

To clarify on some of the responses here - when unreported wages are found to be an honest mistake rather than willful fraud, EDD typically won't issue an overpayment or disqualification, especially for smaller amounts like you mentioned. The interviewer was required to tell you about appeal rights because that's standard procedure for ALL determinations, even favorable ones. The Notice of Determination you'll receive will include language about appeal rights regardless of whether they ruled in your favor or not. This is because all EDD determinations, positive or negative, can be appealed (though obviously you wouldn't appeal a favorable decision). The payment status changing to PAID is the system implementation of their decision, which is clearly in your favor. While there are occasional system glitches, this sequence of events strongly indicates a positive outcome for your claim.

Congratulations on getting your payments! I went through a similar situation last year with unreported DoorDash earnings from 2022 that I completely forgot about (only like $1,800). The interviewer was ice cold and made me feel like a criminal, but my payments also switched to PAID right after the call. Got my money within 2 days and the determination letter a week later confirming they ruled it was an honest oversight. The key thing EDD looks for is whether you were trying to hide income deliberately vs. just making a mistake. Since you were honest about it during the interview and the amount was relatively small, they likely saw it as the latter. Definitely keep reporting everything going forward - even if it's just $50 from a random gig. Better safe than sorry with EDD!