This is such a stressful situation but it sounds like you're handling it really well! I went through a similar reopened appeal last year and the key thing that helped me was organizing all my documentation chronologically. Make sure you have printed copies of everything - the restructuring announcement, the job offer with the distant location and pay cut, any emails about your position being eliminated, etc. One thing that really helped me was creating a simple timeline document showing: 1) when the restructuring was announced, 2) when your specific position was eliminated, 3) when they made the unreasonable job offer, and 4) when your employment ended. Having it all laid out clearly made it much easier to explain to the judge. You're going to do great - sounds like you have all the evidence you need!

Just wanted to add - if your employer does show up this time, don't let them intimidate you! I had a similar reopened case where they brought their HR manager and she tried to twist the facts about my "resignation." Stay calm, stick to your documented facts, and remember that the burden is on THEM to prove you quit voluntarily. The judge will ask you direct questions, so just answer honestly about the restructuring and why that 90-mile commute job wasn't reasonable. You've got solid documentation and the EDD rep already said your case looks strong - that's a really good sign!

Update: I mailed my appeal form with all my timecards and screenshots today via certified mail. Still couldn't get through on the phone, but at least the appeal is on its way. Thanks everyone for your help! I'll post again when I hear something back.

Good for you on getting that appeal mailed out! I went through something similar last year - also in Riverside County. One thing I wish someone had told me: when you get your hearing date letter, READ IT CAREFULLY. They'll give you a specific time window when the judge will call, but sometimes they call early or late. I almost missed mine because I stepped away from my phone for 10 minutes. Also, during the hearing, speak clearly and stick to the facts. The judges are actually pretty fair if you have your documentation in order. Since you already included your timecards and screenshots, you're ahead of the game. Most people just submit the form with no supporting evidence. The wait is brutal but try to stay positive. I know it's scary not having benefits coming in, but if you reported your hours correctly like you said, you should win this. Keep us posted on how it goes!

Thanks everyone for the advice! I'm feeling a bit calmer now knowing this timeline is normal (even if it's frustratingly slow). I'm going to: 1. Try Claimyr to reach EDD and confirm they received my appeal 2. Start gathering ALL my documentation (screenshots, bank records, etc.) 3. Look into the waiver form as a backup option 4. Check if my county has legal aid for EDD issues I'll update this thread once I know more about my situation. Fingers crossed I can get this resolved without having to pay thousands I don't have!

Just wanted to add - if you do end up needing an attorney, look for one who specifically handles EDD cases rather than just general employment law. The EDD appeal process has its own quirks and procedures that regular employment attorneys might not be familiar with. Also, many EDD attorneys work on contingency or flat fee basis rather than hourly, which can make it more affordable. I've seen some charge around $1,500-2,500 for overpayment appeals, which might be worth it for a $5,800 case if you're not confident handling it yourself. One more tip - document EVERYTHING going forward. Keep records of every phone call attempt, every letter sent/received, and screenshot your online account regularly. This creates a paper trail that can be helpful if things get more complicated.

Great to hear you got it sorted out! For anyone else in a similar situation, it's worth noting that EDD is required by federal law to conduct these periodic audits to ensure program integrity. The random nature of these reviews can be scary when you get that notice out of the blue, but they're actually a normal part of the unemployment system. Most of the time, if you were following the rules during your benefit period, these interviews are just administrative checkboxes. The key is definitely not to ignore them - EDD has to follow due process, but only if you participate in that process.

This is such a helpful thread! I'm glad Omar got his situation resolved. For anyone else dealing with EDD interviews after being off benefits, I'd also suggest checking your UI Online account if you still have access - sometimes there are messages or documents posted there that give more context about why the interview was scheduled. Also, if you're like me and terrible at keeping records, try searching your email for job board notifications (Indeed, LinkedIn, etc.) from that time period. Even automated "your application was submitted" emails can help jog your memory about your job search activities. The interviewers really do understand that most people don't keep perfect documentation from years ago - they just want to verify you were making a good faith effort to find work during your benefit period.

Update us after ur appeal!!!! so many of us subs need to know how to beat this stupid system!!!!

I'm also a substitute teacher going through the exact same situation right now! Been subbing for 4 years and this is my first time trying to file for unemployment during summer break. My main district laid me off in June but I still get maybe 2-3 days a month from another smaller district for summer school. EDD denied me too citing the reasonable assurance letter. It's so frustrating because like you said, going from 15-20 days a month to basically nothing is definitely a "lack of work" situation! My rent is due next week and I'm seriously considering picking up retail work just to survive until September. Reading through everyone's responses here is giving me hope though. I'm definitely going to appeal and use the strategies mentioned - especially documenting the huge reduction in available work hours. The fact that some people have actually won these appeals makes me feel like it's worth fighting for. Thanks for posting this - it's good to know we're not alone in dealing with this mess!