Can I get EDD benefits after leaving job due to domestic violence situation?

yea u can apply, they have special rules for DV victims. my cousin went thru similar thing last yr

Yes, you absolutely can apply and likely qualify for benefits. EDD recognizes domestic violence as 'good cause' for leaving employment. You'll want to indicate this when you file your claim - there's a specific question about why you left your job where you can select this reason. As for documentation, text messages showing threats can definitely help. Other supporting evidence might include statements from friends/family who knew about your situation, medical records if you ever sought treatment, communications with domestic violence support organizations, or restraining orders if you had one. When you file, be prepared for a phone interview with an EDD representative who will discuss your situation. Be honest about why you left, and explain that you feared for your safety. They understand these situations are sensitive and handle them accordingly. Wishing you safety and peace as you rebuild.

The EDD system is TERRIBLE with sensitive situations like this. I left my job due to stalking (not DV but similar safety concerns) and they made me jump through SO MANY HOOPS. The initial rep I talked to was understanding, but then I got transferred to someone else who questioned EVERYTHING. It felt like I was being accused of lying!! They kept saying "where's the documentation" and "we need more evidence" - like excuse me??? I was RUNNING FOR MY LIFE!!! Make sure to request a phone interview with someone who specializes in these cases. The regular EDD people sometimes don't know the DV exceptions AT ALL.

So sorry ur going through this. My friend was in similar situation and got benefits. EDD was actually understanding once she explained. Hang in there! ❤️

I work with DV survivors and help them navigate these systems. Here's some practical advice for your situation: 1. When filing your claim, select "compelling family or health circumstances" as your reason for leaving work. Then in the explanation box, clearly state it was due to domestic violence. 2. Be prepared for the phone interview. Have your evidence organized (texts, emails, names of witnesses, dates of incidents). 3. Consider contacting a local domestic violence organization - they often have advocates who can help you with this process and sometimes even write supporting letters. 4. Remember that California specifically protects DV survivors in unemployment law under Section 1256 of the UI Code. 5. If you're denied initially, definitely appeal! Many people get approved on appeal, especially with sensitive situations. One other thing - when you file, you may need to provide your new address. If you're concerned about your ex finding this information, you can request address confidentiality through EDD's privacy protocols.

I had a completely different issue with EDD but couldn't get through on the phones for WEEKS. Kept hitting that stupid "we're experiencing high call volume" message. Finally I found this service called Claimyr that got me through to an EDD rep in less than 20 minutes. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km For something as complicated as your situation, you definitely want to talk to a real person rather than just submit online. Check out their website at claimyr.com - it was worth it for me since I was going crazy trying to get through on my own.

I remmbr reading somewhere that they can waive the work search requirments for a bit in DV cases too. Like u dont have to apply to jobs right away if ur still getting settled after moving. not 100% sure tho

Whatever you do, DON'T put your work history online in the EDD portal where your abuser might somehow see it! My friend's ex somehow figured out where she was working through some public records and it created a whole new safety issue. Ask EDD about their privacy protections for DV survivors specifically. Some reps know about them and some don't!

Thank you all so much for your advice and support. I filed my claim today and requested a phone interview. I've been working with a local DV organization to gather supporting documentation, and they're actually providing me with a letter explaining my situation. I also found some emails and texts that show the pattern of abuse, plus I have two friends who witnessed incidents and are willing to provide statements. I'm feeling a bit more hopeful now, though still nervous about the process. I'll update this thread after my phone interview to let you all know how it went. Thanks again for all your help - it means more than you know to not feel alone in this.

You're being so brave through all of this. Just wanted to add that when you do your phone interview, don't feel like you have to rush through explaining your situation. Take your time, and if you need a moment to collect yourself that's completely okay. The rep should be patient with you given the sensitive nature. Also, if at any point during the process you feel like the person you're talking to isn't understanding the DV exception or seems dismissive, don't hesitate to ask to speak with a supervisor or request to be transferred to someone who specializes in these cases. You deserve to be treated with compassion and understanding. Wishing you all the best with your interview - you've got this! 💪

I went through something very similar about 18 months ago. Left my job suddenly due to an abusive ex who was escalating and showing up at my workplace. EDD did approve my claim, but it took about 6 weeks total from filing to first payment. A few things that helped me: - I kept a detailed timeline of incidents leading up to when I left work - Screenshots of threatening messages (which you mentioned having) - A brief statement from my therapist confirming I was dealing with domestic violence trauma - Contact info for the DV hotline I had called (even though I didn't file a police report either) The phone interview was actually less intimidating than I expected. The rep was professional and seemed experienced with these situations. They asked specific questions about how the abuse related to my work situation and why leaving felt necessary for my safety. One tip - when they ask about your job search activities, mention any steps you're taking to establish safety first (new address, changed phone number, etc.) as they do understand these situations require settling in before actively job hunting. You're taking all the right steps by working with a DV organization. Stay strong - the system does work for survivors, even if it's not always smooth. Feel free to reach out if you have questions after your interview!