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Update to my earlier comment: I just checked the CUIAB website, and they state that the current average processing time for appeals is 61 days from receipt to hearing. So while 5 weeks feels long, it's actually still within their normal timeframe. Here's what I recommend: 1. Send a duplicate appeal via certified mail 2. Include a cover letter stating this is a duplicate 3. Attach proof of your original submission (tracking number) 4. Call CUIAB directly at (800) 400-7166 instead of regular EDD 5. Continue checking your UI Online account daily The CUIAB phone line is separate from EDD and specifically for appeals status.
btw when i finally got my appeal hearing they only gave me like 5 days notice!! so make sure ur checking ur mail every single day or you might miss it. good luck!!
I'm dealing with something similar (different field) and I'm so nervous about the eligibility interview next week. What kinds of questions do they ask? Do I need a lawyer? My employer is a large corporation with HR and legal teams and I'm just me...
You don't need a lawyer for an eligibility interview. They'll mainly ask about the circumstances of your separation - why you were terminated, if you received warnings, your work history, etc. Be honest, stick to facts, and have any supporting documentation ready. The interviewer is trying to determine if you were fired for misconduct that would disqualify you from benefits. Most people handle these interviews on their own without legal representation.
Make sure you CERTIFY FOR BENEFITS every two weeks even while waiting for the initial determination!!! I made the mistake of waiting until my claim was approved, and I lost out on several weeks of backpay because I didn't certify. Even if your claim is pending or under review, you need to certify for each eligible week or you won't get paid for those weeks later!
I didn't know this - thank you! I would have probably waited for approval before certifying. So even while they're deciding if I qualify, I should still do the bi-weekly certification?
wait im confused...do u have to quit to get unemployment or not?? my boss cut my hours too (from 35 to 22) but im scared to apply cuz what if they say im committing fraud or something?? everyone tells me different things!!
No, you absolutely do NOT need to quit to get unemployment benefits. In fact, quitting voluntarily could disqualify you. When your hours are substantially reduced (like yours - from 35 to 22), you can qualify for partial unemployment benefits while continuing to work those reduced hours. This is perfectly legitimate and not fraudulent at all.
Second update: My claim went through! I got a message in my UI Online inbox saying my weekly benefit amount is $267. I just did my first certification and reported the 20 hours I worked. The calculator said I'll receive a partial payment of $164 for the week. Not as much as I hoped but definitely helps with the reduced income. Thanks again everyone!
My cousin said the whole EDD system is messed up now and everyone is getting automatically flagged for interviews! Be prepared to wait FOREVER
That's not accurate. While some claims do get flagged for eligibility interviews, it's not automatic for everyone. Furloughs with definite return dates are actually some of the most straightforward claims, especially if the employer properly reports the furlough to EDD. The system has improved significantly since the pandemic overload.
Just to clarify something important: when you apply before your last day, make absolutely sure to enter your correct last day of work. Don't put the application date as your last day worked. This is a common mistake that causes problems. The system will ask for your last day worked - that should be your actual final day at work (July 11th based on your post). And be careful with your first certification. If you work any days in that first certification period, accurately report those days and earnings or you could end up with an overpayment situation later.
Amara Okafor
Wait they don't use Bank of America anymore? I still have my old BofA EDD card from 2021, so I'll need a new one? Also does anyone know if the weekly benefit amount is the same calculation as before?
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Fatima Al-Rashid
•Correct - they switched from BofA to Money Network in July 2023. Your old card won't work. The benefit calculation is still the same: approximately 60-70% of your average weekly wage during your highest-earning quarter in the base period (typically the 12 months before you file), up to the maximum benefit amount (currently $550/week).
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Jamal Brown
Thanks everyone for the helpful info! I'm going to start gathering all my employment docs now just in case. Sounds like things are mostly the same but with a few important changes (new card provider, ID.me verification, etc). I'll definitely keep detailed work search records too - not worth risking an overpayment situation. Fingers crossed my contract gets extended and I won't need any of this, but better to be prepared!
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KylieRose
•Smart to prepare ahead of time. One final tip: when you do file, do it early in the morning (like 5-6am) on a weekday. The UI Online system tends to be much faster with fewer timeout errors during off-peak hours. Good luck with everything!
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