@profile3 I actually used Claimyr like you suggested! It worked exactly as advertised - I was connected to an EDD rep in about 15 minutes. Completely worth it after days of frustration trying to get through on my own. Now I'm just waiting for my eligibility interview which is scheduled for next week. Fingers crossed!

I'm so glad you got through and found out what was going on! This is exactly why I joined this community - to learn from others' experiences with EDD issues. I'm a substitute teacher and have been worried about potential problems with my summer claim since I also had some unpaid time off during my base period. Your situation gives me hope that even when there are multiple issues, they can be resolved if you get the right person on the phone. Please keep us updated on how your eligibility interview goes - I'm sure others in similar situations would benefit from knowing the outcome. Good luck!

btw ur friend might qualfy for the altenative base period if the regular 1 doesnt work out!!! they look at diferent quarters

As someone who went through the EDD process recently, I'd highly recommend your friend apply online through UI Online rather than trying to call. The online system walks you through each step and lets you save your progress. Also, make sure she has her Social Security card, driver's license, and any tax documents (W-2s, 1099s) from 2022 ready before starting. The system will ask for employer information going back to her base period, so having those documents handy will make the process much smoother. One thing that helped me was writing down all my employers and approximate dates before I started the application - it made filling out that section much faster.

Has anyone tried the UI Online message center instead of calling? My brother-in-law couldn't get through on the phone either but he sent a detailed message through his UI Online account (under Contact EDD) about his disqualification issue. He included his phone number and asked for a callback. An EDD rep called him back 3 days later and fixed his issue. Might be worth trying along with the phone strategies!

I've been in your exact situation and know how stressful it is! Here's what worked for me after weeks of trying: I used the calling strategy mentioned above (calling at 8:01am, not 8:00) combined with the Claimyr service that Hunter mentioned. The service cost me $20 but it was worth every penny to avoid the endless calling. When I finally got through to an EDD rep, they found that my documents were uploaded correctly but got stuck in their review queue. The rep was able to manually push my case through and remove the disqualification within 2 days. In the meantime, definitely file that appeal Andrew mentioned - it gives you a safety net and shows EDD you're serious about disputing the decision. Also, since you mentioned rent is due soon, call 211 for emergency assistance programs in your area. Many have funds specifically for people waiting on unemployment benefits. You're not alone in this - the system is overwhelmed but your case sounds like a simple processing error that can be fixed once you reach the right person. Keep pushing!

One thing to consider - if your brother-in-law does get laid off and has to file a new claim (after his benefit year), the weekly amount might be different based on his earnings at the new job. If he was making more money, his weekly benefit might go up (potentially higher than the $450 max if his new job paid A LOT more). But if he was making less, his weekly benefit might go down too. Just something to keep in mind when planning finances! My benefit amount dropped by $78/week on my second claim because I had taken a lower-paying job between claims. It was a nasty surprise.

Just wanted to add something that might help - if your brother-in-law is worried about the timing, he should keep track of when his benefit year actually ends. You can find this date on your EDD account online or on any correspondence from EDD. It's exactly 12 months from when he first filed, not from when he started receiving benefits. Also, if he does end up needing to file a new claim after his benefit year expires, he should file as soon as possible after becoming unemployed. There's no waiting period to build up more earnings - as long as he meets the base period requirements, he can file right away. The longer he waits, the more potential benefits he loses since you can't get retroactive payments for weeks before you file. Good luck to your brother-in-law! The system is definitely confusing but sounds like he's in a better position than many people dealing with EDD.

just a heads up the whole process is waaaaay slower now than before covid. i filed in jan and it took almost 2 months to get everything sorted out!! make sure ur brother has some $ to live on while waiting

I work at a nonprofit that helps people with disabilities navigate government services. A few additional tips for your brother's situation: 1. EDD has a disability services unit that can provide extra support during the application process. You can request this when you call or note it in the application. 2. For someone with a learning disability who's working reduced hours, make sure to emphasize that the hour reduction was involuntary (employer decision, not his choice). This is crucial for eligibility. 3. Keep detailed records of his work schedule before and after the reduction - pay stubs, schedule screenshots, anything that shows the change wasn't voluntary. 4. The ID.me verification can be challenging, but they do have live video agents who can walk him through it step by step. The accessibility accommodations mentioned earlier are real and helpful. 5. Consider applying for CalFresh (food stamps) as well if he's not already receiving it - reduced income from work hours often qualifies someone, and it can help bridge the gap while waiting for EDD approval. Good luck helping your brother navigate this! The system isn't easy but there are people and resources to help.