EDD combined wage claim issue - can't file new claim in Hawaii after exhausting California benefits

Unfortunately, the rep from Hawaii is correct. When you file a combined wage claim, the wages from the other state(s) get transferred to the paying state (California in your case). You can't use those same wages again to file in the other state. As for filing a new claim in California, you typically need to wait until your benefit year ends (which would be October 2023 based on when you filed) AND have earned new wages since filing your original claim. Without new wages, you likely won't qualify for a new claim even after your benefit year ends.

im in almost the exact same boat! filed combined claim w/ nevada + cali wages last september and benefits ran out in december. tried to file in nevada and got shut down... so frustrating

To qualify for a new UI claim in California, you need to have earned approximately $1,300 in your highest quarter during your base period (which would be the 12 months before you file your new claim). So you'd need to find some work between now and when your benefit year ends in October to qualify for a new claim. As for extensions, the federal extension programs that were available during COVID (like PEUC, PUA, etc.) have all ended. Regular UI claims are limited to their maximum benefit amount - in your case the 16 weeks you received. There are no automatic extensions available right now unless California creates a new program, which hasn't happened.

Have you tried contacting california edd directly? maybe they have better info than hawaii about ur options??

Try using Claimyr to get through to EDD. I was in a similar situation where I needed to speak to someone at EDD but couldn't get past the automated system for weeks. Claimyr helped me connect with an EDD rep in about 20 minutes. It worked really well - you can see how it works in their video demo: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km or visit claimyr.com. They'll call EDD for you and then connect you once they get through to a representative. Definitely worth it when you're dealing with something complicated like a combined wage claim.

FYI - You can also check if you qualify for any other programs in the meantime. Maybe look into CalFresh (food stamps) or other assistance if you're really struggling financially. It won't replace UI benefits but might help while you're looking for work.

One more thing to consider - if you exhausted your benefits in January 2023, you should be focusing hard on the job search right now. Even part-time or gig work could help you qualify for a new claim when your benefit year ends in October. The $1,300 minimum that someone mentioned is approximately right (it varies slightly), but remember you need to have earned that during your base period. Your best bet is to find work now, then file a new claim in October or November 2023 when your current benefit year ends.

The combined wage claim system is SO confusing. I had a similar issue last year but with California and Oregon. What I learned is that you should always file in the state with your highest wages first if you think you might need to file again later. Once they transfer the wages between states, you can't un-transfer them. The EDD should really explain this better before people file combined wage claims!