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

For the phone interview, they'll typically call you at the number on file during the scheduled time. Make sure to keep that number updated and available. From what I've seen in this community, some reps are scheduling interviews unnecessarily for PUA claims - you might want to call back and ask to speak with a Tier 2 specialist who can clarify if an interview is actually required for your situation. Don't let one rude rep discourage you from getting the help you deserve!

This is exactly the kind of specific information I was hoping for! Thank you. It helps to know the actual statistics rather than just guessing. I'll try to be patient for the next 8 business days or so.

I went through something very similar last year! My manager also used the exact same language - "temporary layoff" and "eligible for rehire" but couldn't give me any actual reason. It's definitely frustrating when you're left in limbo like that. The good news is that I got approved after about 9 days following my phone interview. What really helped my case was that during the interview, I emphasized that I had asked my manager multiple times for clarification on why I was being let go and she couldn't provide any specific reason. I also mentioned that I had been a good employee with no disciplinary issues. One thing I'd suggest - if you haven't already, try to get something in writing from your employer about the "temporary" nature of the layoff. Even a simple email asking for clarification about when you might be called back could be helpful if your employer tries to contest your claim later. You don't need much, just something that shows their vague communication. Keep certifying every two weeks and hang in there! The waiting is the worst part, but it sounds like you have a solid case.

I'm so sorry you're going through this - the stress of potentially losing housing while dealing with EDD bureaucracy is absolutely awful. As someone who works in legal aid, I want to add a few urgent steps to the excellent advice already given: 1. File your appeal IMMEDIATELY - you typically only have 30 days from the denial date 2. When you call EDD, ask specifically about "continuing claim" status while your appeal is pending 3. Contact your local legal aid office - many have specialized unemployment attorneys who can help with appeals at no cost For immediate housing help, also try contacting your city/county's homeless prevention services directly (not just 211). Many have emergency funds specifically for people facing eviction. Some churches and community organizations also have emergency assistance funds. The "reasonable assurance" rule is absolutely designed to deny benefits to educators unfairly. Document everything - your varying work history, lack of guaranteed hours, and especially that email you mentioned that explicitly states no work guarantee. You have a strong case based on what you've described. Hang in there - this system is broken but you can fight it successfully!

I went through something very similar as a substitute teacher last year and it's absolutely infuriating how they treat us! The "reasonable assurance" denial is their go-to way to screw over subs even though we have ZERO guaranteed work. Here's what saved me: I immediately filed an appeal and kept detailed records of every interaction with EDD. Most importantly, I emphasized in my appeal that substitute work is inherently unpredictable - some days you get called, some you don't, and there's absolutely no promise of consistent income or hours. I also mentioned specific periods during the regular school year when I went days without being called, which proved my point about the unreliable nature of sub work. My appeal took about 6 weeks but I won and got full backpay. Don't let them bully you - you deserve those benefits! Also definitely look into emergency rental assistance through your county while you wait. The system is broken but you can beat it with persistence and good documentation.

UPDATE: I certified on March 2nd as scheduled, and you all were right! They took $600 to clear my overpayment balance and released the remaining $300 to my EDD debit card. It took about 2 days for the payment to process. Thanks everyone for your help explaining how this works!

That's awesome news! Thanks for coming back to update us - it really helps other people who might be in the same situation. It's such a relief when EDD actually processes things the way they're supposed to. Now you can focus on your job search without worrying about penalty weeks hanging over your head. Hope things keep improving for you!

Update after reading all responses: Since you've already filed the fraud report with EDD and contacted credit bureaus, your next steps should be: 1. File the FTC report at identitytheft.gov (this is federally required for identity theft) 2. Contact the IRS Identity Protection Unit at 800-908-4490 3. Begin checking your mail carefully for any 1099-G tax forms from EDD 4. Use Claimyr or similar service to reach a live EDD agent to flag your account 5. Set up account notifications for any financial accounts you have Identity theft recovery is unfortunately a marathon, not a sprint. The sooner you implement protective measures, the better.

I'm so sorry you're going through this! I just went through something similar a few months ago. One thing I didn't see mentioned yet - make sure to check if your state offers a Security Freeze through the DMV. In California, someone can use your stolen info to get a duplicate driver's license, which then gives them more credibility when applying for benefits or other services. Also, when you call that IRS Identity Protection Unit number that Malik mentioned, ask them about getting an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). It's an extra layer of security for your tax filings that prevents fraudsters from filing fake returns in your name. The whole process is exhausting and feels unfair, but hang in there. Most people I know who dealt with EDD fraud eventually got it resolved, it just takes way longer than it should. Keep pushing and don't let them put you off!