Can I get EDD benefits while suspended from healthcare job for failing required certification exam?

I went through something similar last year with my CNA certification. EDD considers this a "temporary suspension" rather than a layoff, which complicates things. You can apply, but based on my experience, you'll likely need to do an eligibility interview where they'll determine if you're "able and available" for work. The fact that you're looking for other jobs while trying to pass your exam is good - make sure to emphasize that in your application. You should definitely apply regardless - worst case they say no, best case you get benefits while sorting this out. Have you looked into whether your employer offers any exam preparation assistance?

u probly wont get approved, i tried 2 get benefits when my truck driving school kicked me out cuz i couldnt pass the CDL test, edd said i wasnt eligible bcuz it was my fault i couldnt pass. sorry but thats how they r

This is a tricky situation, but here's what you need to know about EDD rules in this specific circumstance: 1. You need to show you're "able and available" for work 2. Being temporarily suspended (not fired) creates a gray area for eligibility 3. The key is to certify honestly that you're looking for other work while trying to pass your exam 4. During your eligibility interview, explain that you're willing to accept suitable work in the meantime 5. Document all your job search efforts thoroughly I've seen cases like yours go both ways, but honesty about your work search efforts will be critical. Also, if approved, remember that once you pass your exam and can return to your job, you must report this change immediately to EDD.

HOW IS NO ONE TALKING ABOUT THE FACT THAT YOUR EMPLOYER IS PUTTING YOU IN AN IMPOSSIBLE SITUATION??? Three failed attempts means something is wrong with either their training or the exam itself. And they just leave you with no income while expecting you to somehow magically pass next time?? The system is BROKEN. I'd file a complaint with the labor board too, not just EDD.

When I called EDD about my claim last month, I got nowhere for THREE DAYS trying to get through. Then I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to an EDD rep in about 20 minutes. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km For your specific situation, you really need to talk to an EDD representative directly because temporary suspensions are handled case-by-case. Since you're actively looking for other work while trying to pass the exam, mention both those facts clearly. I think you have a decent chance of approval if you can explain your situation directly to a rep.

One more thing that's important in your situation: When you file your claim, you'll need to answer a question about why you're not working. Since you're suspended rather than terminated, select "Still employed but not working" rather than "Laid off" or "Fired." This will trigger the eligibility interview process, where you'll need to explain your professional certification situation. Also make sure you're ready to explain: 1. Why you haven't been able to pass the exam (preparation issues, not understanding material, test anxiety) 2. What you're doing differently to pass next time 3. Your concrete plan for returning to work (either at current job or a new one) This shows you're taking responsibility and actively working toward resolving your unemployment situation.

have u asked ur employer if they can give u some kind of partial work while ur studying? my friend works at a hospital and when she failed her pharm tech exam they let her work in admin until she passed. worth asking maybe?

After you file your initial claim, you'll start receiving certification forms every two weeks. Be 100% honest when reporting your job search activities and any income. Being suspended for not passing an exam is different from being fired for misconduct, which works in your favor. But they'll want to see that you're making a genuine effort to resolve your employment situation - either by passing the exam or finding suitable work elsewhere. Also, start documenting everything now. Keep emails from your employer about the suspension, exam registration receipts, study materials you've purchased, etc. Having this documentation ready for your eligibility interview will help tremendously.

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now as a medical assistant - failed my certification renewal exam twice and my clinic suspended me until I pass. What I learned from talking to EDD is that the key factor is whether your employer considers this a "temporary suspension" vs "termination for cause." Since you're still technically employed and they're willing to take you back once you pass, that's actually good for your case. Make sure when you apply that you emphasize you're actively job searching AND working toward resolving the certification issue. One thing that helped my case was getting a letter from my employer stating that this is a temporary suspension pending certification, not a firing. Maybe ask your supervisor if they can provide something like that? It shows EDD that you have a clear path back to work. Also, have you looked into any free or low-cost exam prep resources? Some community colleges offer certification prep courses that might help you finally pass on the next attempt.