EDD benefit extension eligibility in 2025 - do they still exist?

Thanks for the info! That's what I was afraid of. I'll let him know about CalFresh and CalWORKs - he probably qualifies with the kids. Do you know if he has to wait until his benefits completely run out before applying for those other programs?

This is actually BAD advice. You should NOT continue certifying after your benefit year ends unless specifically instructed by EDD. Doing so could potentially flag your account and cause complications if you need to file a new claim later. Always follow the specific instructions EDD gives you about your claim.

This is unfortunately accurate. The only "extension" that exists right now would be filing a completely new claim if your benefit year has ended AND you've earned enough wages in your base period to qualify again. But it sounds like your cousin is still within his benefit year and just reaching the maximum benefit amount. He should look into Training Extension (TE) if he's willing to enroll in an approved training program. That can provide additional weeks in some cases. It's not automatic though - he needs to apply and be approved for the California Training Benefits (CTB) program.

is that service legit?? seems sketchy that you'd need to pay someone just to call edd for you...the whole system is a scam if u ask me

It doesn't call FOR you - it gets you through their phone system and holds your place in line so you can talk directly to EDD yourself. I was skeptical too, but after three weeks of not getting through on my own, it was worth it. Your cousin needs actual EDD confirmation about his specific situation, not general advice.

This is SUPER helpful! I just texted him about this. His benefits don't run out for 3 more weeks so hopefully that's enough time to get this process started. Do you know how long approvals typically take? And would taking classes at the local community college count or does it have to be some kind of specialized training program?

Community college programs can absolutely qualify if they lead to an in-demand occupation. The approval process typically takes 1-3 weeks, so he should start immediately. He'll need to show that the training improves his employability and that he can't find work with his current skills. The EDD website has a list of approved training providers - have him check that first before enrolling anywhere.

This is partially accurate but needs clarification. You can only file a new claim after your benefit year ends (12 months from when you first filed). If your cousin worked any W-2 jobs during his current benefit year, those earnings would be considered for a potential new claim AFTER his current benefit year expires. However, to qualify for a new claim, he would need to have earned at least $1,300 in one quarter or $900 in one quarter with total earnings of 1.25x that amount during his base period. Part-time work might not be enough to qualify.

That's a really good point. I'll make sure he applies for that right away. I think he was avoiding it because of pride or something, but with two kids he really can't afford to turn down any help right now.

This is such a comprehensive summary - thank you! I'm saving this and sending it to my cousin right now. The Training Extension really does sound like his best option, especially since he's been wanting to learn some new skills anyway. I had no idea there were manufacturing training programs available through EDD. One quick question - when he applies for the CTB, does he need to have already enrolled in a training program or can he apply first and then find an approved program if he gets accepted? I want to make sure he doesn't miss any steps in the process. Really appreciate everyone's help on this thread. It's given us actual concrete steps to take instead of just panicking about what's going to happen in 3 weeks.

Great question! For the CTB application, your cousin should identify potential training programs first but doesn't need to be enrolled yet. The application asks you to specify what type of training you plan to pursue and which provider you're considering. EDD wants to see that you've done your homework - that the training is with an approved provider, leads to an in-demand occupation, and makes sense for your employment goals. So have him research approved programs on the EDD website first, maybe even contact a few community colleges to discuss their manufacturing/industrial programs, then submit the CTB application with that specific training plan outlined. Once CTB is approved, THEN he can officially enroll and request the Training Extension. This way he's not paying for classes before knowing if he'll get the extended benefits to support him through the training. The EDD website has a "Training Provider Search" tool that's really helpful for finding approved programs in your area. Manufacturing, welding, and industrial maintenance programs are usually well-represented since those are considered in-demand skills.

Great question! For the CTB application, your cousin can apply first and then find an approved training program - he doesn't need to be enrolled already. The EDD will review his application and if approved, they'll give him a timeframe to start the approved training (usually within a certain number of weeks). The key is making sure whatever program he chooses is on EDD's approved list. Most community college certificate programs in manufacturing, welding, CNC machining, logistics, etc. are typically approved. He can search the approved training provider list on the EDD website or call to verify before enrolling anywhere. Also tell him to keep detailed records of his job search efforts during this process - EDD may ask for documentation showing he's been actively looking for work but unable to find suitable employment with his current skills. This helps strengthen his case that additional training is necessary. Good luck to him - sounds like he's got a solid plan of action now!

He can apply for CTB first and then find an approved program if accepted! Actually, that's the recommended approach since approval isn't guaranteed. The CTB application asks about his training interests and career goals, but he doesn't need to be enrolled yet. Once (if) he gets CTB approval, EDD will provide a list of approved training providers in his area. Then he has a certain timeframe to enroll and start the program. This way he's not paying for training he might not get benefits for. Just make sure when he does pick a program, it's on EDD's approved list and leads to an "in-demand occupation" - that's key for the Training Extension approval. Manufacturing has tons of options like CNC machining, welding certification, industrial maintenance, etc. Hope this helps and good luck to your cousin!

Great question! For the CTB application, your cousin can apply first and then find an approved training program if he gets accepted. In fact, that's usually the recommended approach since it gets the process started while he researches his options. The CTB application will ask about his intended training, but he can indicate "exploring options" or list a general field like "manufacturing technology" or "industrial maintenance." Once approved for CTB, he'll have time to enroll in a specific approved program before the Training Extension kicks in. Just make sure whatever program he eventually chooses is on EDD's approved provider list - community colleges are usually a safe bet, but he should verify before enrolling. The key is getting that CTB application submitted while he still has regular benefits coming in. Sounds like he's got a solid plan now! The combination of TE + CalFresh should help bridge the gap while he gets retrained for better opportunities.

Great question! For the CTB application, your cousin can apply first before enrolling in a specific program. The application process allows him to indicate his interest in training and what field he wants to pursue. EDD will review his eligibility for the Training Extension based on his work history and labor market conditions in his area. If approved for CTB, he'll then have time to choose from the approved training providers list. The key is starting the application process immediately since it takes 1-3 weeks for approval. He can research approved programs while waiting for the decision. Just make sure he continues certifying for his regular UI benefits during this process - don't let those lapse while waiting for the CTB decision. And definitely have him check that approved training providers list on the EDD website to get a sense of what's available in manufacturing/related fields before he submits his application. You're being a great advocate for your cousin - having someone help navigate this system makes all the difference!

Great question! From what I understand, he can apply for CTB first and then find an approved training program during the application process. EDD will actually work with him to identify suitable programs once his initial application is submitted. However, he should start researching approved training providers in his area right away so he's prepared when they ask for his training plan. The EDD website has a search tool for approved training providers - I'd recommend he look at community colleges first since they often have the most manufacturing-related programs that qualify. The key is getting that CTB application started ASAP since processing takes 1-3 weeks and his benefits end soon.

Great question! For the CTB application, your cousin can apply first and then find an approved training program if he gets accepted. The process works like this: 1. Submit the CTB application through UI Online (this starts the approval process) 2. If approved, EDD will send him information about approved training providers 3. He then has time to research and enroll in a qualifying program 4. Once enrolled, he can request the Training Extension The key is getting that initial CTB application submitted ASAP since it can take 1-3 weeks for approval. He doesn't need to be enrolled in training before applying, but he will need to show on his application what type of training he's interested in pursuing. Also make sure he continues certifying for his regular benefits while the CTB application is being processed - don't let those lapse! The EDD website has a list of approved training providers by region, so once he gets approval he can shop around for the best program that fits his schedule and career goals. You're being such a good advocate for him - having someone help navigate all this makes a huge difference!

Great question! From what I understand, he can apply for CTB first and then find an approved training program after he gets conditional approval. The EDD will actually help him identify suitable programs during the application process. However, he should still browse the approved training provider list on the EDD website to get an idea of what's available in manufacturing - things like welding certification, CNC machining, industrial maintenance, etc. are often approved. The key is getting that CTB application submitted while he's still receiving benefits. Once he gets approval, he'll have some time to enroll in an approved program before the Training Extension kicks in. Just make sure whatever program he chooses leads to an "in-demand occupation" - the EDD website has lists of what qualifies in different regions. Glad this thread could help provide a roadmap instead of just doom and gloom! Having a plan makes all the difference when you're facing a benefits cliff.