I'm so glad you were able to get this resolved! This is exactly why I always recommend people get a detailed breakdown of what they owe before making any payments to EDD. The way they structure their notices can be really confusing - they'll show one total amount but not break down what portion is the original overpayment versus penalties and interest. For anyone else dealing with this, always ask specifically: "Does this amount include all penalties and interest that may apply?" when you're setting up payment. It can save you from exactly this kind of surprise later on.

This whole thread is so helpful! I'm dealing with a similar situation right now where I got a notice about additional amounts owed after I thought I had paid everything off. Reading through everyone's experiences, it's clear that EDD's system has some serious communication issues between departments. The advice about requesting a Statement of Account and asking specifically about penalties and interest is gold. It's frustrating that they don't make these breakdowns clearer upfront - it would save everyone so much time and stress. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences and solutions!

I'm dealing with a very similar situation right now! EDD hit me with penalty weeks from way back in 2020 that they're just now telling me about. What I learned is that you absolutely should appeal this - don't just accept the penalty weeks. The key things that helped me prepare: 1. Get bank statements from 2020 showing your actual deposits from work 2. Contact your old employer if possible to get records of your actual hours/wages 3. Document any address changes you had during 2020 (mail forwarding issues were HUGE during the pandemic) 4. Request all records from EDD about what they think you misreported The appeal form is DE 1000M and you can request a phone hearing. I found the Administrative Law Judge was actually pretty reasonable and understood that 2020 was chaotic for everyone. Don't give up - these penalty determinations often get overturned when you can show the reporting was accurate or that you never received proper notice. The whole process is stressful but definitely worth fighting, especially since 5 penalty weeks means 5 weeks without any income!

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this - the stress of needing money for rent while EDD holds up your payments is awful. One thing that might help while you're going through the appeal process is to see if your local community has any emergency rental assistance programs. Many cities and counties still have funds available from pandemic relief programs that can help with rent while you're waiting for EDD to sort this out. Also, some food banks and community organizations offer utility assistance too. It won't solve the EDD problem, but it might help bridge the gap during these 5+ weeks you're looking at. The appeal is definitely the right move - don't let them get away with springing penalty weeks on you years after the fact without a fight!

Just want to throw in my experience. I had almost your exact situation back in 2023. Was at a company for 5 years, then took a new job that turned out to be terrible. They let me go after only 2 months. I was worried about qualifying but had no problems getting benefits based on my previous work history. As long as you've earned enough in your base period (which sounds like you would have with 4 years at your previous job), and you're not fired for misconduct, you should be fine.

I went through something similar about 6 months ago! Was at my previous job for 3 years, then started a new position that was clearly not a good fit. Got laid off after just 5 weeks during their "restructuring" (aka they realized they hired too many people). I was panicking about whether I'd qualify for benefits with such a short stint, but it turned out to be no problem at all. EDD calculated my benefits based on my earnings from the previous job that fell within the base period. The whole process was pretty straightforward once I understood that they don't care about tenure at your most recent job - they just want to see that you didn't get fired for cause. One tip: when you file, make sure you have all your wage information handy from ALL employers during the base period, not just your most recent one. They'll verify everything anyway, but having it ready speeds up the process. Hope things work out better at your current job, but if not, you should be covered!

They're only paying me through my new last day, not through my original resignation date. So basically I'm losing 2 weeks of expected pay. Based on everyone's feedback, it sounds like I should apply right away, focus on both aspects (harassment and early termination), and be prepared for a possible initial denial and appeal process. I'm going to gather all my documentation tonight. Thank you all for the guidance!

You're absolutely on the right track! Since they're not paying you through your original resignation date, that definitely strengthens your case for the termination aspect. When you file, make sure to emphasize that timeline - you gave proper notice with a specific end date, and they unilaterally changed that arrangement to your financial detriment. That's textbook employer-initiated separation for those two weeks. Combined with your harassment documentation, you have two solid arguments. One tip: when gathering your harassment evidence tonight, organize it chronologically and include any witnesses or HR correspondence. EDD likes clear timelines. Good luck with your application!

I went through something similar last year with my elderly father who has Alzheimer's. The PFL option that others mentioned was a lifesaver - I was able to get benefits for about 6 weeks while still working part-time. Just wanted to add that when you apply, make sure the doctor's certification is very specific about the need for intermittent care. My first application got denied because the form wasn't detailed enough about the unpredictable nature of the condition. The second time, his doctor specifically mentioned that emergencies could occur at any time requiring immediate attention, and it was approved. Also, don't get discouraged if it takes a while to process - mine took about 3 weeks but they backdated the payments. Hang in there, you're doing everything you can in a really tough situation.

Also wanted to mention that if you're dealing with medical expenses for your child, you might want to look into the California Children's Services (CCS) program if you haven't already. It covers specialized medical care for children with certain chronic conditions including seizure disorders, and can help with costs that regular insurance doesn't cover. The income limits are pretty generous and it could free up some of your budget while you're working through the PFL application. I know it's a lot to juggle but having that extra medical support might give you more flexibility with work arrangements too.