Can I get partial EDD benefits for reduced seasonal work schedule in December?

Yes, you can absolutely apply for partial unemployment in this situation. This is called "partial UI benefits" and it's specifically designed for people whose hours have been reduced. Since your employer is cutting your schedule from 5 days to 2 days, you're experiencing what EDD considers a significant reduction in hours. Make sure when you certify each week, you accurately report the hours you DO work on Thursday-Friday and any income earned. The system will calculate a partial benefit amount based on your reduced earnings. Just be aware that if you earn over a certain threshold on the days you work, it might reduce your weekly benefit amount.

i was in the EXACT same situation last yr at my warehouse job!! they cut us down to 2 days a week in jan & feb. def apply for UI asap, dont wait til ur already missing paychecks. but watch out cuz u have to report ALL earnings when u certify even tips. they can hit u with overpayment later if u mess up!!

While others have correctly stated you can apply for partial benefits, I want to clarify some important technical details: 1. You must meet the monetary eligibility requirements (having earned enough in your base period) to qualify for any UI benefits. 2. There's a concept called "excessive earnings" - if you earn too much in a week (even at reduced hours), you might not receive benefits for that week. However, your claim remains open. 3. Make sure your employer reports your reduction as "lack of work" not a voluntary reduction. 4. When certifying, you must be able and available for work on those days you're not working (M-W). You should apply online as soon as you know your schedule will be reduced in December. Don't wait until after the reduction occurs.

everyone saying apply, but be prepared for LONG WAIT TIMES even getting through to edd!!! took me 3 weeks of daily calling when my hours were cut last summer. system is a MESS.

Wait, I'm confused... I thought you can only get unemployment if you're fully laid off? My cousin tried to get benefits when her hours were cut and she said they denied her claim. Is this a new rule or something?

I went through something similar in my seasonal construction job. Here's exactly what you need to do: 1. File your UI claim online immediately - don't wait until December 2. When asked about your work separation, select "Still working part-time or reduced hours" 3. For your weekly certifications, report EXACT hours worked and earnings 4. Answer "Yes" to whether you looked for work (and document your job search efforts!) 5. Be prepared to explain your availability for full-time work despite your current part-time schedule Most importantly, make sure your employer correctly reports your reduction as "lack of work" and not something else. I'd recommend talking to HR or your manager about how they'll be coding this reduction in hours.

btw when u log into UI Online make sure u put in the CORRECT wages each week!!! my coworker got hit with fraud charges bc he estimated his hours & it was off by like $200

To answer your follow-up question about base period earnings: Yes, EDD will look at your earnings from both employers when determining monetary eligibility. Your base period is typically the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file. So depending on when you apply, they'll review your earnings history across all employers during that period. Regarding the concern about correctly reporting wages: When certifying, you have two options for reporting wages: 1. Report wages when earned (when you worked) 2. Report wages when paid (when you received payment) EDD's preferred method is reporting when earned. Keep detailed records of your hours and earnings to avoid any issues.

Yes, you DO need to be looking for additional work for those days you're not working. This is a common mistake people make with partial UI. You must be able, available, and actively seeking work for the days/hours you're claiming benefits. Document your job search efforts (company names, positions, application dates) because EDD can audit you and request this information. The expectation is that you're trying to replace those lost hours with other employment, even though you're still working part-time at your current job.