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EDD doesnt care about are industry they just want to deny benefits lol. ive been on sets where NOBODY got paid for 3+ months and then EDD acts like we're commiting fraud when we finally get the $$$. system is rigged against gig workers
While the system definitely has issues with gig work, I've found EDD staff are generally reasonable once they understand the situation. It's more about their system not being designed for our industry's payment practices than them actively trying to deny benefits. Documentation is key.
UPDATE: Had my phone interview today! The rep was actually really understanding once I explained everything clearly. They added notes to my account about the film industry payment structure and are releasing all my held payments! Thanks everyone for the advice - especially about having all my documentation ready and asking for a permanent note in my file about irregular industry payments. Such a relief!
Great news! Glad it worked out. Did they give you any additional advice for handling similar situations in the future?
Anyone know if they do hearings on Fridays? My sister-in-law had an EDD appeal last month and she said they told her they only do hearings Monday-Thursday. But maybe that was just in her office?
This varies by field office and ALJ availability. Some offices do conduct hearings on Fridays, though typically fewer than other weekdays. I've never seen weekend hearings scheduled, however. When you call to reschedule, be prepared with multiple date/time options across different days of the week to increase your chances of finding a suitable time.
Since you're a law student, I should mention that you can also submit a written statement if absolutely necessary. If rescheduling doesn't work out, you could attend your class and submit a detailed written argument for your appeal. It's not ideal, but it's better than not participating at all. The notice should explain how to submit written evidence/statements. I'd still prioritize attending the hearing in person if possible though - it's much more effective to answer the judge's questions directly.
That's an interesting backup option I hadn't considered. I definitely prefer to attend and speak directly with the judge, but it's good to know I could submit something in writing if all else fails. Thank you for pointing this out. I'll review my notice again to find the instructions for written submissions.
One more thing to be aware of - once you're approved, it takes about 3 weeks to receive your EDD debit card (Money Network) if this is your first time on unemployment. After that, payments are much faster as they just load the card. Just wanted to mention this so you can plan accordingly for that initial waiting period.
I just went through the application process last month - make sure you check your UI Online account DAILY after applying. Sometimes they need additional information but only notify you through the portal, not by email or text. Missing those requests can delay your claim by weeks.
dont waste ur time with the website just call them directly using the claimyr thing others mentioned. the website will make u think ur eligible when ur not or vice versa. edd's computer system is from the stone age seriously
Update: I took everyone's advice and filed a new claim. I also used the Claimyr service to get through to EDD (thanks for that recommendation!). The agent reviewed my work history and explained that I do qualify for a new claim since I had wages in 2023 that weren't part of my previous claim's base period. My weekly benefit amount will be lower than my previous claim because my highest quarter earnings were less, but I'm approved for the full 26 weeks. Just wanted to thank everyone who helped me understand this confusing process!
Nasira Ibanez
When I first got my Money Network card in March I had all kinds of problems with my direct deposit. Turns out I had entered my account number wrong (put my routing number twice by accident lol). Double check all your bank info is correct in UI Online. Also make sure your name matches EXACTLY how it appears on your bank account.
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Quinn Herbert
Update: The money FINALLY hit my account this morning! So it took exactly 5 business days from certification to deposit. Seems like everyone was right about the longer timeframe with Money Network vs BofA. Guess I'll need to plan better for these delays in the future. Thanks for all the advice!
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Salim Nasir
•Glad to hear it finally came through! Yeah, definitely plan for that 5-day window going forward. It's annoying but at least it's consistent.
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