I think you should just file anyway and see what happens. The worst they can say is no, right? My cousin's boyfriend got approved even though he had some gaps in his work history. Everyone's situation is different.

Thanks everyone for the responses. I think I'll try to get through to EDD directly to ask about my specific situation, and also look into the general assistance programs that were suggested. Seems like regular unemployment probably won't work out, but at least I have some other options to explore now.

Just wanted to say I'm going thru something similar right now with EDD after working for a fitness company as a "contractor" but they controlled EVERYTHING. The key is to be super detailed in your application about how they treated you like an employee. And dont get discouraged if u get denied at first - appeal appeal appeal!!!!!

To add some important information: when you file your UI claim, you'll need to list your former company as an employer even though they paid you as a contractor. During the subsequent EDD interview, be prepared to explain specifically how they controlled your work (schedule, methods, tools provided, training requirements, etc.). Under California law, the company must prove ALL THREE parts of the ABC test to classify you as a contractor: A) You were free from their control and direction B) Your work was outside their usual business C) You were customarily engaged in an independently established trade or business If they fail ANY of these tests, you should be classified as an employee. Based on what you've shared, it sounds like they fail at least part A, possibly others. Expect the company to contest this, as they'll be liable for unemployment taxes if EDD rules in your favor. Document everything and be consistent in your statements.

ive heard about this before but thought it was just rumors. do u have to provide them with personal info? like how do they kno your not just making up a problem

This is excellent advice! I'm a former EDD employee, and I can confirm that congressional inquiries receive priority handling through special units at EDD. When a representative's office contacts EDD, it typically gets routed to the Legislative Liaison Unit rather than regular claims processing. Just remember that they can't change EDD's determination on eligibility - they can only help push through claims that are stuck in processing limbo or escalate issues that aren't getting proper attention through normal channels. Make sure to prepare all your documentation before contacting them: claim number, dates of contact with EDD, any relevant paperwork, and a clear explanation of the issue.

One more thing - when you do get approved and have to certify for all those back weeks, make sure you report any income accurately if you had any sick pay or PTO payout after your layoff. EDD will cross-check with your employer and it can cause major headaches if the numbers don't match up.

If they deny your backdate request (which happens ALOT) immediately appeal it!! You only have 30 days to appeal a denial. And make sure to keep certifying for current weeks while waiting for backdating decision. They won't tell you this but you can lose current benefits if you miss certifications while dealing with backdating issues.

why is edd so confusng with there rules????? i swear they try 2 make it hard on purpose so people mess up and they can deny benefits smh

One other important detail - when he certifies, make sure he answers "Yes" to the question "Did you work or earn money, WHETHER YOU WERE PAID OR NOT?" for the week containing that Friday meeting. Then he'll enter Friday's date, the number of hours (4), and the gross amount he'll be paid. The system will prompt him through all the necessary information.