Everyone keeps talking about how backed up they are, but it's because they're DELIBERATELY SLOW. My cousin works for the state (not EDD but another department) and he says EDD is under orders to delay payments as much as possible because the unemployment fund is depleted. The whole "backlog" excuse is just a cover for intentionally withholding benefits. They're hoping people give up or find jobs before they have to pay out. It's all political.

UPDATE ON APPEALS CONTACT: As of last month, the Appeals Board has introduced a new online status check system that might help you. Go to edd.ca.gov/appeals and look for the "Appeal Status Portal" link. You'll need your case number and confirmation number from your acknowledgment letter. It won't give you the decision, but it will tell you if a decision has been made and when it was mailed. Also, if you're facing eviction, make sure to file for a hardship expedite using Form DE 1430H. You can download it from the EDD website under Forms and Publications. Send it with your eviction notice to the Appeals office that held your hearing.

In my experience assisting claimants with appeals, the timeline depends greatly on how complex your case is and the current workload at that particular office. Simple cases (like those involving straightforward separation issues) tend to be decided more quickly than complex cases involving multiple eligibility issues or extensive evidence. Also, decisions are typically issued faster when the judge makes their determination during the hearing. If your judge indicated they needed to review additional evidence or legal precedents, that could extend the timeline. For what it's worth, most San Bernardino appeals I've seen in 2025 have been resolved within 2-3 weeks. If it goes beyond that, don't hesitate to follow up.

Just an update on my earlier comment - I won my appeal! So happy I could cry! Hoping you get your good news soon too!

One more important tip: during your appeal hearing, focus on these specific points: 1. Your overall work history (8 years of good service) 2. The isolated nature of this incident (single occurrence) 3. Lack of prior warnings about this specific issue 4. Lack of training on the importance of this documentation requirement 5. No substantial harm to employer (if that's accurate) Avoid arguing about whether the termination itself was fair - that's not what the hearing is about. The only question is whether your actions rose to the level of

Thank you! I was definitely planning to argue that the firing was unfair, so I'm glad you pointed this out. I'll focus specifically on why this doesn't meet the legal definition of misconduct instead. I really appreciate everyone's help here!

She got the written decision about 10 days after the hearing, but I've heard it can take up to 30 days depending on the judge's caseload. They told her at the end of the hearing that they'd mail the decision, but she was able to see it posted in her UI Online account first.

Thanks for the info! 10 days isn't too bad. I'm hoping mine comes quickly too.

This is why I hate retail jobs. They do this on purpose to keep from laying people off officially. My daughter went through something similar at her grocery store job. They cut her to 8 hours a week but technically kept her "employed" so they wouldn't have to pay unemployment. She applied for UI anyway and got it, but her manager gave her attitude about it. Don't let them intimidate you!

One more thing to be aware of: when you certify each week, you'll need to say "yes" to the question asking if you looked for work. Make sure you're actually applying to at least a few jobs each week and keep records of your job search activities (company name, date, position, how you applied). EDD can request this information at any time, especially if your employer tries to challenge your claim.