Quick question - does anyone know if you can backdate a claim? I lost my job a few weeks ago but I've been putting off filing because I thought I'd find something new quickly.

Hey Isabella! I just went through this process a few months ago, so it's still fresh in my mind. One thing I wish someone had told me - make sure you file your claim as soon as possible after your last day of work. There's usually a one-week waiting period before benefits kick in, so the sooner you file, the sooner that clock starts ticking. Also, when they ask for your work history, be as detailed as possible with dates and wages. It'll help speed up the process and avoid any delays later. You got this! 💪

Whatever you do DO NOT SPEND THAT MONEY!! I had something similar happen (different glitch but same result), spent the money, then had to repay it all at once when they discovered the overpayment 3 months later. It was a nightmare! Just set it aside and consider it not yours.

I work as a benefits advisor and see this exact scenario regularly - you're handling this perfectly by being proactive! The UI Online system has had this specific bug since their January update where the earnings input fields don't populate correctly when transitioning from unemployment to employment mid-certification period. A few additional tips: When you do get through to EDD (and you will eventually), ask them to add a note to your file about the technical glitch so future reps can see your good faith effort. Also, if they set up a repayment plan, you can usually request to have it spread over 12 months instead of 6 if that works better for your budget. The fact that you tried multiple times to enter your earnings and have documentation of selecting "worked and earned money" shows clear intent to comply - this definitely won't be considered fraud. Keep us updated on how the resolution goes! Your experience will help others who encounter this same glitch.

Here's a comprehensive guide to certifying for benefits that might help: • Always certify on time, even if you have issues. You can always correct later. • Report ALL income, including cash jobs or gig work. • Be honest about your work search efforts. It's better to report less than lie. • If you're not sure about a question, call EDD or check their FAQ before answering. • Save a copy of your certification (screenshot or print) for your records. • If you make a mistake, contact EDD immediately to correct it. • Remember, you must be able and available for work to receive benefits. • If your claim is pending for more than 2 weeks, try to contact EDD. Hope this helps! Let me know if you have any specific questions.

@Reina Salazar I've been through this exact same frustration! One thing that really helped me was creating a simple checklist before I start certifying each time. I write down: 1. All work I did (even if unpaid yet) with gross amounts 2. Any job applications or interviews from the past 2 weeks 3. Double-check I'm marking "yes" for able/available to work Also, if the website is being glitchy, try clearing your browser cache or switching to incognito mode. Sometimes that fixes the submission issues. The mobile app can be hit or miss, but it's worth trying as a backup. Don't stress too much - we've all made mistakes with these forms. The important thing is being honest and reaching out (like you're doing now) when you're unsure. You've got this! 💪

One more thing to add - if your claim does get initially denied because of the previous issue (which happens sometimes because their system is BROKEN), make sure you appeal right away! You only have 30 days to appeal and the hearing process takes FOREVER so don't wait. Good luck!

Just wanted to share my experience since I went through something very similar last year. I had an overpayment of about $4,200 that I paid back in full, and when I needed to file again about 6 months later, the process went smoothly. The key thing is that since you paid it back and it wasn't fraud, you're in good shape. My application did get flagged for manual review which added about 2 weeks to the process, but once they verified the overpayment was resolved, everything went through normally. Just be patient if it takes a little longer than usual - that's totally normal given your history. And definitely take the advice here about being super careful with your certifications going forward!

BTW if u apply online its WAYYYY faster than paper forms. Paper forms took my brother like 6 weeks to get approved but when I did it online last yr I got approved in like 9 days. Also the SDI website actually WORKS unlike the crappy UI one that crashes all the time.

Just wanted to add that you should also keep track of any part-time or temporary work you might do between now and your surgery. Even if you pick up some gig work or short-term employment after UI ends, it won't disqualify you from SDI later as long as you're genuinely unable to work due to your medical condition when the time comes. Also, if your surgery gets moved up or delayed, you can always update your SDI application accordingly. The key is just making sure you apply within that 49-day window from when you actually become disabled. Good luck with everything!