Can I still collect EDD benefits while working part-time (12-20 hours weekly)?

ya u can still get some benefits but theyll reduce it based on what u make. u gotta report ALL hours exactly right tho. dont lie bout hours or theyll come after u later with overpayment notice

Yes, you absolutely can work part-time while collecting unemployment. This is called partial unemployment. When you certify every two weeks, you'll report your work hours and wages for each week. EDD uses a formula where they deduct the first $25 or 25% of your wages (whichever is greater), and then reduce your weekly benefit amount by the remaining wages. So if your weekly benefit amount is $450 and you earn $200 in a week, they'd deduct about $150 from your benefit ($200 minus the 25% exclusion), leaving you with about $300 in UI benefits plus your $200 in wages. Make sure you report GROSS wages (before taxes) in the week you EARNED them, not when you get paid.

just be warned EDD's system is a NIGHTMARE!!! i worked part time at Target while on unemployment and EDD randomly disqualified me because they thought i was working full-time even though i clearly reported only 15-18 hours!!! took 2 months to fix and I couldn't pay rent!!!!!

Working part-time while on unemployment is actually encouraged by EDD as it helps transition back to full-time work. Here's how to handle it correctly: 1. Always report your gross wages (before taxes) during certification 2. Report wages for the week you EARNED them, not when you're paid 3. Keep your own detailed record of hours/wages (screenshots of schedules, etc.) 4. Be prepared for occasional eligibility interviews if your earnings fluctuate The formula most use: Weekly Benefit Amount - (Earnings - 25% of Earnings) = Partial UI payment I helped many claimants navigate this during my time working with workforce development. Just be meticulous with your reporting and you'll be fine.

I was in the exact same situation! Trying to reach EDD to ask these questions was impossible - constant busy signals and disconnections. I found a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually got me connected to an EDD rep within 20 minutes after trying for weeks on my own. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km The EDD rep confirmed everything others said here - you can definitely work part-time while collecting reduced benefits. The formula they use meant I was actually better off financially working part-time + partial UI than just collecting full unemployment. The rep also helped set up my certification properly so I wouldn't make mistakes.

Thanks everyone for the helpful responses! I'm going to accept the part-time job and make sure I document everything carefully. Sounds like I'll still get some unemployment to help cover the gap until I can find something full-time again. I appreciate all the advice!

wiat i'm confused... when u say report wages for week EARNED not PAID what does taht mean exactly?? my boss pays me every 2 weeks but sometimes puts wrong dates on my check lol

Make sure to answer YES to "looking for work" even with your part-time job!! That question always confused me and I answered NO once because I already had the part-time job and didn't technically "look" that week - huge mistake that delayed my payment. As long as you're still available for and seeking full-time work, the answer should be YES.