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

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.

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.

Wait I'm confused... if you already went through appeals for this job but they're asking again, isn't that double jeopardy or something? Can they really make you prove the same thing twice?

UPDATE: I managed to get through to EDD this morning! The agent explained that they're doing a standard audit of claims from the pandemic period. Apparently, this employer I've never heard of got mixed up in my file somehow. She noted the error on my account and said I should still provide documentation about the job I actually quit in 2020, but she extended my deadline to 10 days instead of 48 hours. I'm still gathering my medical records, but I'm feeling much less panicked now. Thanks everyone for your advice!

my roomate didnt get nothin in the mail about the new card either and his payment was stuck for like 2 weeks... he finally called and they said they mailed it to his old address from like 2 years ago?? make sure u check what address they have on file!!

Update: I used the Claimyr service mentioned above and finally got through to EDD! The representative confirmed my payment is in the Money Network system, but my card was sent to my old address despite updating it in UI Online. They're expediting a new card to my current address that should arrive in 3-5 business days. The rep also told me that in the future, I can set up direct deposit through the Money Network portal once I have access, which will avoid all these card issues. Just wanted to share in case anyone else is having similar problems during this transition!