one thing nobody mentioned - if your weekly benefit amount on the new claim is $40+ lower than your old claim, you might qualify for something called the DNCP (deferred new claim payment) where they use your old wba instead. ask about it if your new amount is way lower

Just wanted to add one more thing that helped me during my reapplication process - make sure you have your Social Security card handy when you apply on Dec 29th. Even though I had done ID verification before, they asked me to upload a clear photo of my SS card during the new application process. Also, if you're planning to apply first thing in the morning, try around 6-7 AM - the system seems less glitchy then compared to later in the day when everyone's trying to access it. Good luck with your reapplication!

Just a quick update since I see others have answered most of your questions - once you get your Money Network card, I recommend immediately setting up account alerts. There have been some fraud issues with these cards, so it's best to get text or email notifications for any transactions. Better safe than sorry!

I went through this exact same confusion when I first filed! It's totally normal and actually a good sign - when History shows "paid" it means EDD has processed and approved your payment. The Claims section just takes longer to update, usually 24-72 hours behind. Since this is your first payment, your Money Network card is definitely being mailed to you automatically. No action needed on your part! Just keep checking your mailbox over the next 7-10 business days. The card comes in a very plain white envelope that honestly looks like junk mail, so don't accidentally throw it away. Once it arrives, you'll call the number on it to activate and set up your PIN. Hang in there - the hardest part is over!

Sorry to hear about your situation - getting laid off twice in such a short period is really tough! I actually work as a benefits counselor and see cases like yours fairly often. Here's what you should know: You'll definitely need to file a new claim since you earned wages after your previous claim ended. The good news is that if your 6 weeks of work at the startup didn't generate enough earnings to qualify for a completely new claim (which is likely), EDD will automatically transition you back to your previous claim if there's still a remaining balance. The key thing is that this determination happens automatically during processing - you don't need to choose between options. Just file the new claim online, provide accurate information about both employers, and let the system work it out. One tip: when you get to the section about why you left each job, be specific that both were layoffs due to company circumstances (not performance related). This helps establish continued eligibility. The whole process usually takes 2-3 weeks to resolve, but keep certifying during that time. You won't lose any benefits you're entitled to. Hang in there!

I'm in almost the exact same boat - got laid off in October, used up all my benefits by January, found a temp job that lasted only 5 weeks before they cut the whole department. The uncertainty is so stressful! Based on what everyone's saying here, it sounds like filing a new claim is definitely the way to go even if we end up back on our old claims. At least we'll know for sure what we're eligible for. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - it really helps to know we're not alone in dealing with this confusing system!

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've been dealing with a similar situation for weeks now. That message usually means they need additional documentation or there's a discrepancy they need to review. In my experience, you'll likely need to call them directly to find out exactly what they need. The wait times are brutal, but it's often the only way to get specific information about your case. Have you tried calling the technical support line? Sometimes they can at least tell you what documents might be missing from your file. Don't give up - many of us have gotten through this process, it just takes persistence.

One last thing to keep in mind: if you don't qualify for any extensions, you might be eligible to open a new claim after 12 months from the start date of your original claim, assuming you've earned enough wages in the meantime. This isn't an extension but a completely new benefit year. Also, while this isn't widely known, if your industry has been affected by any trade agreements, you might qualify for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA), which provides additional benefits and training opportunities. Good luck with your call tomorrow - hope you get through and receive good news about the training extension!

@Hugo Kass - I just went through this exact situation in January! A few additional tips that might help: 1) When you call EDD, try calling right at 8am when they open - I had better luck getting through then. 2) If you do qualify for the training extension, ask about "bridge benefits" - some people don't know EDD can sometimes provide a small payment while your TE application is being processed. 3) For immediate help with rent, check if your county has emergency rental assistance programs - many still have COVID relief funds available. 4) Look into your local One-Stop Career Centers (America's Job Center) - they often have emergency assistance and can help you navigate the training programs. Don't give up, there are more options than it initially seems!