i had the exact opposite problem! i updated my address with appeals but forgot to update it with regular EDD and my certification forms went to my old address. ended up getting my benefits delayed for 3 weeks because of this! its crazy they dont share this info between departments. the lady at EDD told me they're "separate entities" whatever that means

Thanks everyone for all the helpful comments! Just to follow up - I was able to have my hearing (thankfully), and I learned they also have separate phone numbers and email systems. So if you updated any contact info at all, make sure to tell BOTH offices. My appeal was approved, btw! Such a relief after all this stress.

did u check if the asbestos thing counts as a public health emergency? my cousin got some kinda special assistance when his restaurant had to close for a similar health code thing last year, wasn't regular unemployment tho something else

Update: I spoke with my landlord and they're going to file a claim with their insurance that might cover some displaced business costs! Also contacted the county health department about the asbestos situation - they're sending an inspector to evaluate if it qualifies as a public health concern that might open up some emergency assistance. Thanks everyone for the suggestions - still figuring this out but at least I have some directions to pursue now. Will update when I know more about what help is available.

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

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!