I had this EXACT situation in January!!! EDD is such a mess - they believe employers without question most of the time. What eventually worked for me was getting my coworkers who were also laid off to write statements confirming there was a layoff and I was part of it. EDD finally reversed their decision after I submitted these as additional evidence. If you're still in touch with any former colleagues who were also laid off, ask them to write a brief statement that you can submit.

I'm so sorry you're going through this - the stress of being wrongly accused of fraud while already struggling financially must be overwhelming. Based on what others have shared here, it sounds like you have a strong case for your appeal since you have documentation proving it was a layoff. One thing I'd add that I haven't seen mentioned yet - while you're waiting for your appeal hearing, consider reaching out to your state assemblyperson's office. Many have caseworkers who specialize in helping constituents with EDD issues, and they can sometimes expedite reviews or connect you with the right people at EDD. It's a free service and they're often more responsive than EDD directly. Also, regarding the job search struggles - have you tried working with a recruiter in your field? Sometimes they can help you navigate around potential employer bias, and they often have inside knowledge about which companies are actually hiring vs just posting jobs. Given your 8+ years of experience, a good recruiter might be able to open doors that aren't responding to your direct applications. Hang in there - from what I've read in this thread, appeals with solid documentation like yours have a good success rate. You've got this!

pro tip: if u can, try reaching out to ur local state representative's office. they sometimes have connections w/ EDD and can help push things along

Hey @CosmicCommander! I went through something similar last year. The "not meeting eligibility requirements" thing can be really confusing - sometimes it's just a paperwork issue or they need more info about your last employer. A few things that helped me: • Check if you have any outstanding issues in your UI Online account • Make sure all your employer info is correct (sometimes they can't verify employment if there's a small typo) • Look for any "determination" letters you might have missed - they sometimes send multiple letters Also, definitely start that appeal process ASAP like @Freya Thomsen mentioned - that 30-day window goes by fast! And yeah, the phone situation is brutal, but keep trying. I had luck calling around 8:02am right when they open. Hang in there - this stuff is so stressful but you'll get through it! 💪

btw my friend who got denied waited 4ever 4 the interview then got denied & had to appeal & the whole thing took like 3 months b4 she got any $$ so don't quit ur job expecting 2 get ui right away

Hey Nick! I'm going through something similar right now - also considering leaving due to health issues. One thing I learned from talking to an EDD rep (after many failed attempts to get through!) is that they really scrutinize voluntary quits, so documentation is EVERYTHING. I'd suggest getting your doctor to write a detailed letter that specifically mentions how your work environment is affecting your health conditions - not just that you have anxiety/insomnia, but how the job itself is causing or worsening these issues. Also, before you quit, definitely try the accommodation route first (reduced hours, different duties, work from home if possible) and keep emails/documentation of all requests. Even if they deny your requests, it shows you tried to preserve your employment. The whole process is honestly pretty stressful, but having all your ducks in a row from the start will save you headaches later. Good luck with both the claim and your business venture!

One important thing to note: make sure you continue certifying for your SDI benefits properly while this is all going on. Sometimes people get so focused on the appeal that they miss certification deadlines, which creates a whole new problem. Also, when you win your appeal (staying positive here), get the decision in writing and keep multiple copies. EDD has been known to request the same documentation multiple times.

I went through something very similar in 2023. EDD garnished about $3,200 from my SDI payments over 4 months while my appeal was pending. When I finally won my appeal, it took about 8 weeks to get the money back, but I did receive every penny they had taken. A few tips from my experience: - Keep detailed records of every garnishment amount and date - When you call EDD after winning, ask specifically for the "Benefit Payment Control" unit - they handle garnishment reversals - If the first rep says they can't help, politely ask to be transferred to a supervisor who can access overpayment adjustments - The reimbursement will likely come as a separate EDD debit card deposit, not added to your regular SDI payments The whole process is stressful and unfair, but hang in there. The fact that you have documentation proving it was a layoff puts you in a strong position for your hearing. Best of luck!

UPDATE: Finally got through to EDD this morning! Used the tech support number (1-855-327-7057) and called exactly at 8:00am. Still waited about 45 minutes but they reset my password and I was able to certify right away. For anyone with the same issue - definitely call right when they open and be prepared to wait. Thanks everyone for your help!

So glad you got through! This gives me hope for when I inevitably have to deal with EDD issues. Quick question - when you called at 8am, did you get put on hold right away or did it take a few tries to even get through to the hold queue? I've heard sometimes the system just hangs up on you if they're at capacity.