


Ask the community...
One more important tip: during the interview, if you don't understand a question, ask for clarification. Sometimes the interviewer's questions can be confusing or seem like they're fishing for something. It's perfectly okay to say, "I want to make sure I understand your question correctly, are you asking..." This prevents misunderstandings that could affect your claim. Also, remember that the interview is being recorded, so take your time to think before answering. There's no rush, and thoughtful answers are better than hasty ones you might regret.
The interview went better than expected! The interviewer was professional and mainly focused on the reason for separation. I stuck with "business decision" as the official reason, and when asked if there were any performance issues, I mentioned the PIP but emphasized that I had successfully completed it a month before termination. She seemed satisfied with that explanation. Now I'm just waiting for their decision, which she said should come within 7-10 days. Thanks everyone for all your helpful advice!
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 had the same issue last month! kept transferring me to BOA and BOA kept saying to call - it was so frustrating. What finally worked for me was going directly to a of America branch with two forms of ID (driver's license and Social Security card). They were able to verify my identity in person and unlock my card immediately. The whole process took about 15 minutes. I know it's inconvenient to go in person, but it saved me hours of being transferred back and forth on the phone. Hope this helps!
When my brother had a similar situation happen, he went to the nearest EDD office in person with his ID and the letter. They were able to look it up immediately and confirm it was fraud. They had him fill out some paperwork right there and canceled the fake claim. Much faster than trying to deal with the phone system! Just Google your nearest EDD office and show up when they open.
After you get this resolved, make sure to take these additional steps: 1. File an identity theft report with the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov 2. Place a fraud alert with all three credit bureaus 3. Review your credit reports for any other suspicious activity 4. Continue monitoring your EDD account for any further unauthorized claims 5. Consider filing Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit) with the IRS to prevent tax-related issues Identity theft involving unemployment claims has been rising since 2020, and sometimes old data breaches can lead to fraud years later.
Thank you so much for this detailed advice. I was able to reach an EDD rep this morning (used that Claimyr service someone mentioned and it actually worked!). They confirmed someone tried filing a claim using my info. They've flagged my account and are sending me paperwork to officially report the fraud. I'm going to follow all your steps to protect myself further.
Wait I'm confused... is a backdate interview different from an eligibility interview? I had an eligibility interview last month but they never mentioned anything about backdating. I did request backdated weeks when I first applied though. Should I have gotten a separate interview just for the backdate request?
Yes, they're different. An eligibility interview covers your general qualification for benefits (job separation, ability to work, etc.). A backdate interview specifically addresses why you didn't file your claim on time and whether you have good cause for backdating. If you requested backdated weeks but haven't had a backdate interview, you should call EDD to check on the status of that request.
Update for the original poster: Based on current EDD processing times, you should receive a determination by the end of this week (around the 17-20 day mark). If not, it's reasonable to start calling for a status update. It's important to understand that backdating requires proving "good cause" for not filing on time. Technical issues can qualify as good cause if you can demonstrate you attempted to file. The fact that the interviewer seemed understanding is a positive sign. If you don't receive any updates by the 3-week mark, then calling EDD becomes your best option. Be prepared to call multiple times due to high call volume.
Thank you - this timeline helps a lot. I'll wait until end of week before I start really worrying. I definitely had good cause - I have screenshots showing the error messages I got when trying to submit originally, so I hope that helps my case. I appreciate all the support from everyone here!
Brian Downey
Just wanted to follow up - how did things go with your claim? Were you able to file successfully after your benefit year ended?
0 coins
Geoff Richards
•Thanks for checking in! I filed my new claim on September 29th as suggested, and it's currently pending. The online status says they're reviewing my eligibility, which I guess is normal. I reported my upcoming final day of work and the severance pay I'll be receiving. Fingers crossed everything processes smoothly!
0 coins
Mateusius Townsend
That's great that you were able to file on the 29th! The "pending eligibility review" status is totally normal for new claims - they have to verify your identity, employment history, and make sure you meet all the requirements. Since you've been at the same job for 3 years and have a straightforward layoff situation, your claim should process without major issues. The severance reporting was smart too - better to be upfront about it from the start. Keep an eye on your UI Online account and be ready to respond quickly if they request any additional documentation. Most new claims get resolved within 2-3 weeks if there are no complications. Good luck!
0 coins