Has anyone else noticed that the unemployment website is always down when you need it most? Like, do they do that on purpose or what? 🤔

yall ever think about how wild it is that we gotta jump through all these hoops just to get help when we're already stressed about not having a job? system's broke af 😤

Yes, networking activities can count toward your work search requirements! When you certify, EDD gives a list of qualifying job search activities that includes: - Submitting job applications - Attending job interviews - Networking with professional contacts for job leads - Attending job fairs or workshops - Registering with employment agencies - Taking skills assessments or certification courses Just document those coffee meetings (date, person's name, company, what was discussed) same as you would job applications. Regarding your EDD claim processing: If it's been more than 14 days since filing and your claim still shows as pending, it might be worth trying to speak with a representative. Many people find success calling right when they open (8am) or trying the technical support line instead of the main line.

Another resource you should look into immediately is your local 211 service - they can connect you with emergency financial assistance programs in your area. Many counties have rapid rehousing funds specifically for people who've lost jobs unexpectedly. Also, if your startup was funded by VC money, check if they offered any employee assistance programs that might still be available even after layoff. For your medication, call your doctor's office and explain the situation - many have sample supplies or can help you apply for manufacturer patient assistance programs. Don't wait on this since your insurance ends soon. One more tip: start your job search documentation NOW even though you just filed. EDD can ask for proof of job search activities going back to your claim start date, so having everything tracked from day one will save you headaches later. Good luck - you're going to get through this!

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

So frustrating when that happens! I've had the same experience - they put you on hold and then the line just goes dead. It's like they're hoping you'll give up. I usually try calling back right away since you've already invested the time, but I know how discouraging it can be. Have you tried calling first thing in the morning? I've had better luck getting through around 8 AM when they first open.

Update: I finally got through to EDD this morning after trying for 2 hours! The rep confirmed exactly what you all said - my old disability claim from 2023 was still showing as active in their system even though it ended over a year ago. They fixed it on their end and told me to go ahead and certify again. The disability questions are now gone from my certification! She said my payments should process normally now. Thanks everyone for your help!

Congrats on getting it resolved so quickly! For anyone else reading this thread with similar issues, here are a few key takeaways: 1) Never put false information in your certification even if it seems easier, 2) Keep calling EDD until you get through - persistence pays off, 3) Ask for confirmation numbers when you speak to reps, and 4) The disability/UI system overlap is a known bug that happens frequently. Your experience shows that when you actually reach a knowledgeable rep, these issues can be fixed pretty fast. Hope your payments come through smoothly now!

Hey Aria! I went through almost the exact same thing a few months ago when my retail hours got cut from 35 to about 20 per week. The pending status is totally normal for partial benefits - it usually takes 3-5 business days for them to calculate everything and switch it to "paid." One thing that really helped me was keeping detailed records of my hours and earnings each week, just in case they ever needed verification. Also, don't panic if it stays pending a bit longer than usual - sometimes they do random reviews on partial benefit claims, but it doesn't mean there's a problem with your claim. You're doing everything right by reporting honestly. The partial benefit amount might seem small, but like others mentioned, it keeps your claim active which is super important if your hours fluctuate. Hang in there - the restaurant industry is tough right now but things will get better!

I'm going through something similar right now! My hours at the grocery store got cut from 32 to 18 hours per week last month. I was so confused about whether I could still get benefits while working part-time, but reading through all these responses is super helpful. The calculation breakdown really makes it clear how the partial benefits work. I'm still waiting for my first partial payment to process - been pending for about 4 days now. It's nerve-wracking not knowing when it'll switch to paid, but sounds like that's pretty normal. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences! It really helps to know other people have been through this and gotten it sorted out. @Aria Khan - hope your pending status clears up soon! Sounds like you're doing everything right by reporting your hours honestly.