Can actors affected by SAG-AFTRA strike qualify for EDD unemployment benefits?

Yes, you can absolutely qualify for unemployment benefits as an actor affected by the strike! The key is that your last job ended BEFORE the strike began. If you were actively working when the strike started and then stopped working because of the strike, you might not qualify. But since your last gig ended 3 weeks ago, you should be eligible. Make sure when you file that you indicate you're "available for work" because technically you are available for non-union work or work in other industries. The EDD might schedule an eligibility interview to verify your situation, so be prepared to explain your circumstances clearly.

im pretty sure u can get it during a strike my cousin works in hollywood too and hes getting benefits right now

I went through something similar during a previous industry strike. The EDD typically won't deny benefits JUST because there's a strike happening, but they DO look at each case individually. Here's what I learned: 1. You need to have enough wages in your base period to qualify (sounds like you do) 2. Since your last job ended BEFORE the strike, you should be good 3. You MUST be available for "suitable work" - this includes non-union jobs or jobs in other fields 4. Be honest about the strike, but emphasize that you're actively looking for other work When I applied, I got an eligibility interview and had to explain my situation. Don't be surprised if this happens to you too.

THE EDD SYSTEM IS COMPLETELY BROKEN FOR ENTERTAINMENT WORKERS!!! I tried filing during the last writers strike and got DENIED because some EDD rep decided I wasn't "looking for work hard enough" even though there literally WAS NO WORK in my field!!! They have NO CLUE how the entertainment industry works!!! Good luck even getting through to talk to someone - I spent WEEKS trying to reach them on the phone!!

I've helped several entertainment industry clients navigate EDD during strikes. Here's what you need to know: - California law generally allows strike benefits if you're unemployed before the strike begins (your case) - You must certify every two weeks that you're looking for work - For actors, this can include looking for commercial work, non-union projects, teaching, or other jobs - Keep detailed records of your job search activities - Answer truthfully if asked about the strike, but focus on the fact that you're available for suitable work If you're having trouble reaching EDD to file your claim or get questions answered (which is extremely common), I recommend using Claimyr (claimyr.com). They have a service that helps you get through to an EDD representative much faster. Saved me hours of frustration. You can see how it works in their video demo: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km

Wait I'm confused about something... if your acting job ended 3 weeks ago, wouldn't you have qualified for unemployment anyway, strike or no strike? Like, weren't you already unemployed before the strike started? Or am I misunderstanding how acting jobs work? (Sorry, I work in retail so this industry is new to me

One more important thing - make sure you're still meeting the work search requirements while collecting unemployment. Even during a strike, EDD requires you to be looking for work. For actors, this could mean: 1. Applying for non-union acting work 2. Looking for teaching opportunities (acting classes, etc.) 3. Applying for work in other industries 4. Networking or reaching out to casting directors for future work Keep a detailed log of these activities because EDD may ask for verification. This is especially important during a strike when they might scrutinize applications more carefully.

Has anyone actually successfully used the EDD website to file? I tried helping my roommate (also affected by the strike) and the site kept crashing when we tried to submit the application. So frustrating!

Update: I filed my claim yesterday and the process was smoother than I expected! I made sure to indicate that I was available for non-union work and other types of employment. My claim is pending now, and I have a phone eligibility interview scheduled for next week. Thanks everyone for your advice - it really helped me prepare! I'll update again after the interview to let everyone know how it went in case other actors are in the same situation.