my freind had this happen an she just kept certifying even with the penalty weeks and eventually the payments started coming thru after she served all the weeks

I'm going through something similar right now! Got hit with penalty weeks from 2019 that they're just telling me about now in 2025. What really helped me was immediately requesting all the documentation they have on file about the alleged misreporting - you can do this through a records request. Also, if you moved at all during 2020, definitely mention that in your appeal because the mail forwarding was terrible during the pandemic. I found old bank statements showing my actual work income which contradicted what EDD claimed I reported. The appeal hearing wasn't as scary as I thought - the judge was actually pretty understanding about the confusion from that time period. Hang in there, it's frustrating but definitely worth fighting!

I just wanted to follow up - were you able to get through to EDD? What did they say about your situation?

I'm so glad you were able to get this resolved! This is exactly why I always recommend people get a detailed breakdown of what they owe before making any payments to EDD. The way they structure their notices can be really confusing - they'll show one total amount but not break down what portion is the original overpayment versus penalties and interest. For anyone else dealing with this, always ask specifically: "Does this amount include all penalties and interest that may apply?" when you're setting up payment. It can save you from exactly this kind of surprise later on.

They're only paying me through my new last day, not through my original resignation date. So basically I'm losing 2 weeks of expected pay. Based on everyone's feedback, it sounds like I should apply right away, focus on both aspects (harassment and early termination), and be prepared for a possible initial denial and appeal process. I'm going to gather all my documentation tonight. Thank you all for the guidance!

You're absolutely on the right track! Since they're not paying you through your original resignation date, that definitely strengthens your case for the termination aspect. When you file, make sure to emphasize that timeline - you gave proper notice with a specific end date, and they unilaterally changed that arrangement to your financial detriment. That's textbook employer-initiated separation for those two weeks. Combined with your harassment documentation, you have two solid arguments. One tip: when gathering your harassment evidence tonight, organize it chronologically and include any witnesses or HR correspondence. EDD likes clear timelines. Good luck with your application!

Just want to throw in my experience. I had almost your exact situation back in 2023. Was at a company for 5 years, then took a new job that turned out to be terrible. They let me go after only 2 months. I was worried about qualifying but had no problems getting benefits based on my previous work history. As long as you've earned enough in your base period (which sounds like you would have with 4 years at your previous job), and you're not fired for misconduct, you should be fine.

I went through something similar about 6 months ago! Was at my previous job for 3 years, then started a new position that was clearly not a good fit. Got laid off after just 5 weeks during their "restructuring" (aka they realized they hired too many people). I was panicking about whether I'd qualify for benefits with such a short stint, but it turned out to be no problem at all. EDD calculated my benefits based on my earnings from the previous job that fell within the base period. The whole process was pretty straightforward once I understood that they don't care about tenure at your most recent job - they just want to see that you didn't get fired for cause. One tip: when you file, make sure you have all your wage information handy from ALL employers during the base period, not just your most recent one. They'll verify everything anyway, but having it ready speeds up the process. Hope things work out better at your current job, but if not, you should be covered!

lol EDD basically denies everyone first time no matter what just to see if u give up dont let them

As someone who went through a similar situation with EDD, I want to add that timing is crucial here. Don't wait too long to file your claim once you leave - there's a one-week waiting period before benefits can start, and delays in filing can complicate things. Also, when you do your initial interview with EDD, be very specific about the phrase "good cause connected with work." That's their exact terminology for situations like yours where childcare responsibilities make continued employment impossible. I'd also suggest keeping a detailed log of your current daily schedule showing how the new commute would conflict with your kids' school dropoff - concrete timestamps really help your case. The fact that they gave you an ultimatum rather than trying to work with you on alternatives will also work in your favor.