To answer your question about tips - yes, you absolutely must report ALL earnings including tips when certifying for UI benefits. EDD considers tips as income and failing to report them can result in an overpayment determination later, which you'd have to pay back. Regarding your employer, yes, EDD will verify your employment and reduction in hours with them. They'll send what's called a "Notice of Unemployment Insurance Claim Filed" to your employer. If your employer incorrectly states you requested reduced hours, you should appeal immediately and provide any evidence you have (emails, schedule changes, etc.) showing the reduction wasn't voluntary.

One more important thing: when you first apply, you'll need to complete work search activities each week to remain eligible. For part-time workers, you still need to be looking for additional work. You can satisfy this by: 1. Applying for additional jobs or more hours at your current job 2. Registering with CalJOBS 3. Attending job fairs Make sure to keep a record of all your work search activities in case EDD requests proof later. When certifying, there will be questions specifically about your work search efforts.

One more suggestion that might help - have you checked AARP's job board? They partner with employers who specifically want to hire experienced workers over 50. I know several people who found decent jobs through their program after being in similar situations. Their job board is at jobs.aarp.org and they also offer free resume reviews for members. Also, I know it's hard to hear this when you're worried about paying bills, but sometimes a short break before jumping into the next job can be valuable. If your finances allow even a small cushion, consider taking a few weeks to update skills, get certifications, or network. Many employers in healthcare admin now want experience with specific EMR systems or patient portal management.

Just an update on what I mentioned earlier - I remembered that California has a program specifically for older workers called the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP). You have to be 55+ and meet certain income guidelines, but they help place you in paid training positions that can lead to permanent jobs. Here's the website: https://aging.ca.gov/Programs_and_Services/Senior_Community_Service_Employment_Program/ Might be worth checking if you qualify. Even if you don't, your local American Job Center (part of the CareerOneStop network) offers free services and some have specialists who work with older job seekers.

Before you make this change, let me offer some guidance about the EDD paper check process: 1. Paper checks typically arrive 3-5 business days after your payment is processed (compared to same-day delivery with Money Network) 2. You'll need to physically deposit or cash each check, which means potential bank holds on funds 3. If a check is lost in the mail, the replacement process takes 7-10 business days minimum 4. You'll still need to certify online through UI Online even if receiving paper checks Have you considered just requesting a brand new Money Network card instead? That would give you the security of a fresh card while maintaining the speed of electronic payments. You can request a replacement through Money Network directly without dealing with EDD.

Update: I managed to get through to EDD this morning after calling literally 23 times! The rep told me paper checks are now being phased out and they're strongly encouraging everyone to use the Money Network card OR direct deposit to a bank account (which is a newer option). I went with direct deposit to my credit union account since they have good fraud protection. Thanks everyone for the help and suggestions!

For an expedited hearing request, you need to send a written request directly to the Office of Appeals where your case is assigned. Include your appeal case number, your name, the last 4 of your SSN, and detailed explanation of your hardship with supporting documentation. If you're not sure which office has your appeal, call the main Appeals Board number at 1-800-300-5616 and ask them to confirm where your case is assigned. Regarding getting through to EDD - I've had success calling exactly at 8:01am when they open and using the 1-2-4 prompt sequence. You'll still wait on hold, but at least you'll be in the queue. Keep trying the Claimyr service mentioned above too - having a tier 2 rep flag your case can make a difference. Don't give up - the system is frustrating by design, but persistence pays off. I waited 18 weeks for my appeal last year, but eventually won and received full backpay.

hey just fyi when i won my appeal i had to call constantly for a month to get them to actually process my payments, the decision doesnt automatically trigger payment. so once you get thru all this bs be ready for more bs lol

I got help from my assembly member NOT congress person. Much better results with state-level reps for state EDD issues. Google "California find my assembly member" - they have EDD specialists on staff.

If you're facing eviction, please also reach out to legal aid in your county immediately. They can help with both the eviction and potentially your EDD issues. Most have free services for people with housing insecurity. Just Google "[your county] legal aid housing" to find them.