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!

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!

my cousin works at EDD and says they're way behind on everything right now just FYI

Just wanted to add - I'm also an adjunct (at a private college) and went through this same classification confusion last year. Definitely go with "Private Employer" as others have said. One thing that helped me was having all my employment documentation ready before starting the application - pay stubs, contract letters, etc. The system might ask for verification later and having everything organized made the process smoother. Also, if you taught at multiple institutions, you'll need to list each one separately as different employers. Good luck with your claim!