EDD benefits running out after 26 weeks - any extensions available in 2025?
I've been on unemployment since February and just realized I'm getting close to the 26-week mark. My industry (event management) is still struggling, and I haven't been able to land a new position despite applying to 5-10 jobs weekly. Does California offer any extensions beyond the standard 26 weeks? I've heard conflicting things from friends - one said extensions only existed during COVID, another mentioned Fed-Ed extensions might still be available. I'm getting really anxious about what happens when my benefits run out in August. Has anyone recently been approved for any type of extension? What's the process like? Do I need to apply separately or does it happen automatically?
12 comments
Join the conversation
Fatima Al-Suwaidi
Unfortunately, the regular UI claim is limited to 26 weeks in California, and there are currently no extension programs available in 2025. The pandemic-era extensions like PEUC and PUA ended years ago, and Fed-Ed extensions only trigger during periods of very high unemployment rates (which we don't currently have). Your best options are: 1. Continue with aggressive job searching, even considering temporary positions 2. Look into job retraining programs through EDD's CalJOBS portal 3. Consider applying for CalFresh (food assistance) if you qualify Start planning for the transition now while you still have some benefits left.
0 coins
NebulaNinja
•Thank you for the honest answer. That's what I was afraid of. Do you know if I can apply for a new claim after the 26 weeks are up? Or am I completely out of options with EDD until I find work again?
0 coins
Dylan Mitchell
Wat about state disability?? My sister went on that after her uneployment ran out last yr. worth a shot
0 coins
Sofia Morales
•State Disability Insurance (SDI) is NOT an extension of unemployment benefits. SDI is only for people who can't work due to a medical condition or disability. You must have a doctor certify that you're unable to work. Using SDI when you're not disabled is fraud and can result in penalties and disqualification from future benefits. Please don't suggest this as an option for someone who is able to work but just can't find employment.
0 coins
Dmitry Popov
I WENT THROUGH THIS LAST YEAR!!! The 26 weeks goes by SO FAST. There are NO extensions anymore - the EDD rep told me those were special COVID programs. When my benefits ran out I was DESPERATE and spent 3 days calling EDD to see if there were ANY options. Nobody could help!!! The only thing that worked was when I finally got ahold of an actual TIER 2 specialist who reviewed my case. They explained everything clearly and confirmed I had no more options through EDD. Took me literally 47 calls to reach someone who knew what they were talking about.
0 coins
Ava Garcia
•If you're having trouble reaching EDD, you should try Claimyr. They get you connected with an EDD agent without the constant busy signals and hours on hold. Saved me so much frustration when I needed to sort out my eligibility interview last month. You can check out how it works here: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km or just go to claimyr.com. Not affiliated with them, just a satisfied customer who got through to EDD on the first try instead of spending days calling.
0 coins
StarSailor}
After your regular UI benefits end at 26 weeks, you might qualify for a new claim IF you've worked and earned enough wages since filing your current claim. The key is having enough wages in your base period for a new claim. Without new employment/wages since filing your current claim, you wouldn't qualify for a new claim immediately. Alternatives to consider: - Check with your county's social services for other assistance programs - Apply for CalFresh (food benefits) - Look into rental assistance programs - Visit your local America's Job Center for employment help - See if you qualify for job training through EDD's Training Extension program (though this needs to be approved before your benefits run out
0 coins
NebulaNinja
•Thanks for the detailed information. I did work part-time for about 6 weeks during my claim period, but I reported all earnings and my weekly benefits were reduced accordingly. Would those earnings count toward a potential new claim? Or do I need to find completely new employment after my benefits end?
0 coins
Miguel Silva
im in construction and this happens to me like every few years lol. the trick is to find even a crappy temporary job for a few months, then if you lose that job you can usually qualify for a new claim. not ideal but better than nothing when ur desperate
0 coins
Fatima Al-Suwaidi
•This is generally correct, but I want to clarify for everyone: You need sufficient earnings in your base period to qualify for a new UI claim. The minimum earnings requirement is roughly $1,300 in your highest quarter, with total base period earnings of at least 1.25 times your highest quarter. So a very brief job may not provide enough earnings to qualify for a new claim.
0 coins
NebulaNinja
Thanks everyone for the helpful replies. I'll definitely look into the California Training Benefits program since I'm interested in changing careers anyway. And I'll try Claimyr to get through to EDD so I can discuss my options directly with them. It's disappointing that there aren't extensions available anymore, but at least I have some time to prepare. I appreciate all the suggestions!
0 coins
Dmitry Popov
•The CTB program saved me when I was in your position! Make sure when you call that you SPECIFICALLY ask for info about California Training Benefits. The first-level reps sometimes don't mention it unless you ask directly. Good luck with everything!
0 coins