I went through something similar last year. Use the last physical work date. And just to add - when certifying for benefits make sure he's still doing the work search requirements. Even though technically his employer hasn't officially let him go, if they're not giving him shifts, EDD will expect him to be looking for other work. He should be applying to at least 2-3 jobs per week and keeping records of all applications in case they audit him. This happened to me and I almost lost benefits because I wasn't looking for other work while waiting for my old employer to give me hours again.

also make sure when he certifies he doesnt claim any workers comp weeks! only claim the weeks after he was cleared to work. i made that mistake once and got hit with an overpayment notice it was a huge headache

I went thru a similar card transition with my food stamps account last year and it was a total mess for weeks. Just prepare yourself mentally that there might be hiccups. I'd recommend keeping some emergency money aside if possible just in case there's a delay with your benefits during the switchover.

Here's another tip based on the last EDD card transition: take screenshots of your payment history and account balance before the switch. This gives you documentation if there are any discrepancies after the transition. I've seen cases where payment records weren't properly transferred and having your own records made resolving issues much faster.

Update: We finally got through using the mobile site suggestion and completed the certification! For anyone else having this issue, try using your phone instead of computer, and do it either very early morning or late at night. Thanks everyone for your help!

This reminds me of when I was on unemployment last year during the 4th of July weekend and had the EXACT same problem! I ended up having to go to the library on Monday because my home internet was spotty and I was desperate. By the way, sometimes the site works better if you use Microsoft Edge or Firefox instead of Chrome - something about the way the EDD site is coded.

You know what's RIDICULOUS? EDD expects people to survive with NO INCOME for weeks or months while they figure out their broken system! How are we supposed to pay rent and buy food? Then they act like they're doing us a favor when they finally release OUR MONEY that we worked for and contributed to through our taxes! The whole system is designed to make claiming benefits as difficult as possible!!!

UPDATE: I finally got through to EDD! For anyone facing similar issues, I used Claimyr after seeing it recommended here, and got connected in about 30 minutes. Turns out my account had a random quarterly review flag (even though I've only been on unemployment for 6 weeks). The representative removed the flag and said my pending payments should process within 48 hours. So relieved to finally have answers! Will update again when/if the money hits my card.

This whole unemployment system is SO BROKEN! They ALWAYS side with employers and don't care about real people's situations. I got denied because I couldn't work nights due to no childcare and they said I wasn't "available for work" even though I could work 40 hours during the day! Had to fight for MONTHS to get my benefits. The system is designed to deny you first and ask questions later. DOCUMENT EVERYTHING and be prepared to appeal!!

I'd also recommend keeping a detailed log of your job search activities. Note the company, position, date you applied, method of application (online, in-person), and any follow-up. This proves you're actively seeking work that fits your availability. Also, when you certify for benefits, answer the questions carefully - you ARE available for work (full-time work that accommodates your caregiving), you ARE looking for work, and you CAN accept suitable work. If you answer "no" to any of these, it can trigger an automatic disqualification.