Romeo, I was in almost the exact same situation last month! Filed my claim, got approved with my weekly benefit amount, then waited what felt like forever to certify. In my case, it was 18 days before the certification option showed up in my UI Online account. The waiting is nerve-wracking, especially when bills are due, but it sounds like you're following the normal timeline based on what others have shared. One thing that helped me was setting up a daily reminder to check my UI Online account at the same time each day (I did it with my morning coffee) so I wouldn't obsess over it throughout the day. Since your effective date was April 12th, you're probably looking at being able to certify around April 26th. Hang in there - the backpay will cover those waiting weeks once everything kicks in!

I went through this exact same waiting period about 6 months ago after being laid off from my job. The 15-day wait feels eternal when you're stressed about money, but from what I experienced and what everyone here is saying, you're right on track. My certification didn't show up until day 17, and then I was able to certify for all the back weeks at once. One thing that really helped me during the waiting period was calling 211 to see if there were any local emergency assistance programs for utilities or food while I waited for EDD to kick in. Some counties have programs specifically for people waiting on unemployment benefits. Also, if you haven't already, make sure you're documenting any job search activities you're doing now - you'll need to report those when you do start certifying. The wait is frustrating but sounds like you're doing everything right!

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

From what I've heard from others who've been through the backdate interview process, they typically ask about why you didn't file your claim earlier, what prevented you from filing on time, and details about your employment situation during the period you're trying to backdate. They want to understand if there was good cause for the delay. Make sure you have documentation ready to support your reasons - like medical records if you were sick, or any other evidence that shows why you couldn't file earlier. The 6-8 week timeframe sounds about right unfortunately. Stay persistent and keep following up! Good luck with your interview!

I went through this exact same situation about 6 months ago! The questionnaire and eligibility review is actually pretty standard - they have to do it whenever someone was terminated to make sure it wasn't for misconduct that would disqualify you from benefits. When you call, they'll basically go through your questionnaire responses with you again and might ask for clarification on specific points. The key things that helped me: 1) Have all your termination paperwork ready (termination letter, final pay stub, etc.), 2) Write down a clear timeline of events leading up to your firing, 3) Be completely honest but stick to the facts - don't get emotional or badmouth your former employer. The call took about 30 minutes for me, and I got my determination letter 2 weeks later (approved!). The waiting is definitely the hardest part, but most people who weren't fired for serious misconduct do get approved. Try calling first thing in the morning - I got through around 8:05 AM on my third try. You've got this! 💪

I'm actually going through something similar right now! Just submitted my termination questionnaire last week and I'm already anxious about what comes next. Reading through all these responses has been really reassuring though - it sounds like this eligibility review process is way more common than I initially thought. I've been gathering all my documentation (termination letter, final paystub, any relevant emails) and writing down a clear timeline of what happened leading up to my firing. One thing I'm wondering - for those of you who successfully got through this process, did EDD end up contacting your former employer directly as part of their review? I'm curious if they do their own fact-checking or if they mainly rely on what you and your employer initially reported. Thanks for sharing all your experiences - it's really helping me feel more prepared for when I make that call! 🙏

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

Ugh, that's so frustrating! I've been in the same situation before. Unfortunately, they do drop calls at closing time (8pm), so you'll likely get disconnected if you haven't already. Your best bet is to try calling again tomorrow morning right when they open. Some people have luck with the callback option if it's available, or you could try calling different EDD numbers. The wait times are brutal but don't give up - you'll eventually get through!

I'm going through something similar right now - my payment just switched to "paid" status this morning and I'm also waiting for my first Money Network card! Reading through all these responses has been so helpful. I had no idea about the direct deposit option and definitely didn't realize I could transfer money from the card to my bank account for free once it arrives. Paolo, thanks for sharing your experience and for the update about getting through to EDD - it gives me hope that I can reach them too if needed. For anyone else in this situation, this thread is basically a goldmine of practical advice. The community support here is incredible!

I just went through this exact same situation a few months ago! The waiting is absolutely nerve-wracking, especially when you have bills due. Here's what I learned: the Money Network card typically takes 7-10 business days to arrive after your first payment shows "paid" status. Once you get it and activate it, the money is available immediately. Since you're cutting it close with rent, definitely reach out to your landlord ASAP - most are understanding when you show them the EDD payment confirmation as proof. Also, as soon as you get that card, set up direct deposit through UI Online for future payments. It'll save you this stress going forward. You can also transfer the full amount from the Money Network card to your bank account online for free once it arrives. Hang in there - you're almost through the worst part!