I'm so sorry you're going through this - the stress of being wrongly accused of fraud while already struggling financially must be overwhelming. Based on what others have shared here, it sounds like you have a strong case for your appeal since you have documentation proving it was a layoff. One thing I'd add that I haven't seen mentioned yet - while you're waiting for your appeal hearing, consider reaching out to your state assemblyperson's office. Many have caseworkers who specialize in helping constituents with EDD issues, and they can sometimes expedite reviews or connect you with the right people at EDD. It's a free service and they're often more responsive than EDD directly. Also, regarding the job search struggles - have you tried working with a recruiter in your field? Sometimes they can help you navigate around potential employer bias, and they often have inside knowledge about which companies are actually hiring vs just posting jobs. Given your 8+ years of experience, a good recruiter might be able to open doors that aren't responding to your direct applications. Hang in there - from what I've read in this thread, appeals with solid documentation like yours have a good success rate. You've got this!

I went through something very similar last year and want to share a few additional tips that helped me. First, when you file your appeal, also request an "expedited hearing" due to financial hardship - this can sometimes speed up the process by a few weeks. Second, keep detailed records of EVERY interaction with EDD going forward - dates, times, names of reps you speak with, and what was discussed. This documentation becomes crucial if you need to escalate further. For the job search challenges, consider temporarily using a different phone number (like a Google Voice number) on applications to see if that changes response rates. If you suddenly start getting more callbacks, it could indicate your current number is flagged somehow. Also, check if your state has a "rapid response" program through the workforce development board - they often provide free services specifically for people who were laid off, including job placement assistance and sometimes emergency financial aid while you're between jobs. You're dealing with multiple serious issues at once, but tackling them systematically like you're doing gives you the best chance of success. The fact that you have documentation proving the layoff puts you in a much stronger position than many people facing these appeals.

my appeal took 6 months last year and i won. just hang in there

I'm going through the exact same thing right now - filed my appeal in January and still waiting! Reading everyone's responses here has been really eye-opening. I had no idea about the assembly member option or the CUIAB system. McKenzie, have you tried any of these suggestions yet? I'm definitely going to call my assembly member's office first thing Monday morning. It's so frustrating that we have to jump through all these hoops just to get basic information about our own cases. The system really does seem designed to wear people down until they give up. Hang in there - sounds like most people eventually get their hearing and many win their appeals once they finally get in front of a judge.

pro tip: if u can, try reaching out to ur local state representative's office. they sometimes have connections w/ EDD and can help push things along

Hey @CosmicCommander! I went through something similar last year. The "not meeting eligibility requirements" thing can be really confusing - sometimes it's just a paperwork issue or they need more info about your last employer. A few things that helped me: • Check if you have any outstanding issues in your UI Online account • Make sure all your employer info is correct (sometimes they can't verify employment if there's a small typo) • Look for any "determination" letters you might have missed - they sometimes send multiple letters Also, definitely start that appeal process ASAP like @Freya Thomsen mentioned - that 30-day window goes by fast! And yeah, the phone situation is brutal, but keep trying. I had luck calling around 8:02am right when they open. Hang in there - this stuff is so stressful but you'll get through it! 💪

One important thing to note: make sure you continue certifying for your SDI benefits properly while this is all going on. Sometimes people get so focused on the appeal that they miss certification deadlines, which creates a whole new problem. Also, when you win your appeal (staying positive here), get the decision in writing and keep multiple copies. EDD has been known to request the same documentation multiple times.

I went through something very similar in 2023. EDD garnished about $3,200 from my SDI payments over 4 months while my appeal was pending. When I finally won my appeal, it took about 8 weeks to get the money back, but I did receive every penny they had taken. A few tips from my experience: - Keep detailed records of every garnishment amount and date - When you call EDD after winning, ask specifically for the "Benefit Payment Control" unit - they handle garnishment reversals - If the first rep says they can't help, politely ask to be transferred to a supervisor who can access overpayment adjustments - The reimbursement will likely come as a separate EDD debit card deposit, not added to your regular SDI payments The whole process is stressful and unfair, but hang in there. The fact that you have documentation proving it was a layoff puts you in a strong position for your hearing. Best of luck!

Hey Nick! I'm going through something similar right now - also considering leaving due to health issues. One thing I learned from talking to an EDD rep (after many failed attempts to get through!) is that they really scrutinize voluntary quits, so documentation is EVERYTHING. I'd suggest getting your doctor to write a detailed letter that specifically mentions how your work environment is affecting your health conditions - not just that you have anxiety/insomnia, but how the job itself is causing or worsening these issues. Also, before you quit, definitely try the accommodation route first (reduced hours, different duties, work from home if possible) and keep emails/documentation of all requests. Even if they deny your requests, it shows you tried to preserve your employment. The whole process is honestly pretty stressful, but having all your ducks in a row from the start will save you headaches later. Good luck with both the claim and your business venture!

Just wanted to add my perspective as someone who successfully got UI after quitting for health reasons in 2023. The timeline everyone's mentioning is spot on - it took about 6 weeks from filing to first payment, and that was WITH proper documentation. A few things that really helped my case: 1) I had my therapist write a letter specifically stating that my work environment was "incompatible with my mental health treatment and recovery" - that specific language seemed important. 2) I saved all my text messages and emails where I told friends/family about work stress BEFORE I quit - this helped establish a timeline. 3) During the phone interview, I was very factual and didn't get emotional, just stuck to the medical facts and timeline of events. Also @Nick, regarding your business - I was upfront about my plans during certification and just made sure I was genuinely applying to jobs too. EDD seemed okay with it as long as I could show I was available for full-time work if offered. The whole process is definitely nerve-wracking but doable with the right prep!