Just want to add that I was in a similar situation where EDD claimed they never received my identity verification documents even though I had proof of delivery. After months of frustration, I finally attended an in-person appointment at an EDD office rather than trying to resolve it by phone. The in-person staff actually took the time to search through different systems and found my documents had been received but filed under the wrong SSN (someone had transposed two digits). Might be worth seeing if you can schedule an in-person appointment if phone calls aren't working.

This is exactly why I always tell people to document EVERYTHING when dealing with EDD. Your certified mail receipt is gold - don't let them gaslight you into thinking it doesn't matter. Here's what worked for me when I had a similar issue: I created a detailed timeline with dates, tracking numbers, and names of every rep I spoke with. Then I submitted a formal written complaint to EDD's Director's Office citing their failure to process a timely-filed appeal despite proof of delivery. I referenced the specific regulation that says appeals must be processed when received within the deadline, regardless of internal processing errors. Within two weeks of sending that complaint (also via certified mail, of course), I got a call from someone in their escalations department who not only found my original appeal but fast-tracked my hearing. Sometimes you have to speak their language - cite regulations, reference your proof, and make it clear you understand your rights under the appeals process. Stay strong and don't give up! Your certified mail receipt proves you did everything right - this is 100% their administrative failure, not yours.

To all those having trouble reaching a human at California Unemployment. I just ran across this video that gave me a shortcut to reach a human. Hope it helps! https://youtu.be/Ize0EkN4HDI

I had a similar issue with ID.me address verification! Here's what worked for me: First, make sure you're using the exact address format that matches your official documents. Sometimes ID.me is very picky about abbreviations (like "St" vs "Street" or "Apt" vs "Apartment"). If your passport doesn't have your current address, you'll need a secondary document like a utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement that shows your name and current address. You can also try calling ID.me support directly - they have a helpline specifically for government benefit verification issues. If all else fails, contact EDD directly and explain your situation - they sometimes have alternative verification methods available. Good luck!

I'm so sorry you're going through this stress - I know exactly how you feel. I was in a similar situation about 6 months ago when my UI benefits were about to run out. Here's what I learned: 1. **File for CalWORKs if you qualify** - Many people don't know about this, but if your income is low enough after UI ends, you might be eligible for cash assistance through CalWORKs. It's not much, but it's something. 2. **Contact 211** - Just dial 2-1-1 from any phone. They can connect you with local resources including emergency rent assistance, food banks, and utility help programs specific to your area. 3. **Look into temp agencies** - I know it's not ideal for your accounting background, but agencies like Robert Half and Accountemps specifically place accounting professionals in temporary roles. Sometimes these turn into permanent positions, and at minimum they'll help you build earnings for a potential new UI claim. 4. **Check if your previous employer offers any severance extensions** - Some companies have programs to help laid-off employees even months later. The job market is brutal right now, but don't give up. I finally found something after 8 months of searching. Hang in there!

I went through this exact situation in 2023 and want to share what worked for me. When my regular UI benefits exhausted, I discovered that many people overlook the **Work Sharing Program** - if you can find ANY part-time work (even just 10-20 hours/week), you might still be eligible for partial UI benefits while working reduced hours. Also, since you mentioned you're an accountant, this is actually prime tax season hiring time! Many accounting firms and tax prep companies are desperately looking for seasonal help right now (January-April). H&R Block, Jackson Hewitt, and local CPA firms often hire experienced accountants for tax season even if it's just temporary. This could be perfect timing to: 1. Bridge your income gap 2. Build earnings toward a new UI claim 3. Potentially network into a permanent position One more thing - if you have ANY professional certifications or licenses, make sure they're current and prominently featured on your applications. The accounting job market is saturated with general candidates, but specialized skills (like QuickBooks certification, tax preparation, or industry-specific experience) can really make you stand out. Don't panic yet - you still have 3 weeks to explore these options!

To all those having trouble reaching a human at California Unemployment. I just ran across this video that gave me a shortcut to reach a human. Hope it helps! https://youtu.be/Ize0EkN4HDI

I'm in a similar situation - I had a remaining balance when PUA expired on September 4th. From what I understand, any unused balance after that date is no longer accessible since the federal programs officially ended. However, if you had weeks that you were eligible for but never got paid (like pending weeks from before 9/4), you might still be able to get backpay for those specific weeks. I'd recommend calling EDD to clarify your specific situation and see if any of your remaining balance represents weeks you were entitled to but never received payment for.

see i told u itd be fine!! they just gotta check boxes for their system update thing. my cousin said the same thing happened with him!

That's such a relief to hear your interview went well! I'm going through something similar right now - EDD wants to interview me about a claim from 2019. Your experience gives me hope that being honest about what I can and can't remember will be enough. Did they ask for any specific documentation during the interview, or was it mostly just verbal confirmation of your separation reason? I'm trying to prepare as much as possible but like you, most of my records from that far back are long gone.