Just wanted to add - if your interview doesn't go well and you get denied, don't give up! The appeal process actually has a pretty good success rate. Almost 50% of appeals get reversed in the claimant's favor. Just make sure you request the appeal within the 30-day window.

UPDATE: I had my eligibility interview yesterday. The interviewer was actually really thorough and let me explain everything. They asked for specific dates and details about my leave request and termination. I provided the email where I requested the extension and my termination letter. They said they'd be contacting my employer for follow-up and I should receive a determination in 7-10 days. My attorney prepped me well for the questions. Fingers crossed! Thank you all for the advice and support.

ya this happns alot with school workers. my neighbor works as a janitor at highschool and got hours cut last year and had to appeal twice b4 getting benefits. keep trying to call them cuz sometimes they can fix it without appeal if u get a good person

One more important tip: When you file your appeal, request a telephone hearing rather than in-person if that's an option. Telephone hearings are typically scheduled faster, sometimes 2-3 weeks sooner than in-person hearings. This can make a big difference when you're waiting for benefits to start. Also, don't stop looking for additional work while this process plays out. If you find other employment to supplement your reduced school hours, you may still qualify for partial benefits depending on how much you earn each week. Make sure to report all work and earnings accurately when certifying.

One more thing I forgot to mention... if all else fails you can actually fax EDD a written request to reset your account! I know it sounds ancient but my neighbor did this when she couldn't get through on the phone or recover her password. Send it to the UI Online support fax number.

UPDATE: Success! We tried the Spanish queue trick this morning and got through after only 15 minutes on hold! The rep was super helpful and was able to both reset the UI Online account AND file the new claim all in one call. She said they've been having major phone system issues this week which is why it's been even harder than usual to get through. Thanks everyone for all the suggestions - this community is amazing!

The appeal system is completely overloaded right now. I work in a legal aid office, and we're seeing wait times of 4-7 months across all our clients' cases. This is significantly longer than the pre-pandemic standard of 6-8 weeks. While waiting, make sure you: 1. Continue certifying for weeks (if the system allows you) 2. Document all attempts to contact EDD (dates, times, who you spoke with) 3. Gather and organize all evidence supporting your case 4. Apply for other assistance programs if eligible (food stamps, rental assistance) If you're facing immediate financial crisis, consider contacting 211 for emergency assistance resources in your area while your appeal is pending.

Has anyone ever tried going IN PERSON to the appeals office??? I'm wondering if that works better than calling?

Is anyone else having issues with the Money Network app too? I can't even log in to check my balance since yesterday afternoon. Keeps giving me an error message about "service unavailable." Wondering if this is connected to the payment delays everyone's talking about.

UPDATE: My payment just hit my Money Network card about an hour ago! Logged in and it's there. So it took about 3 days total after certification. Relief! Hopefully everyone else sees their payments soon too.