EDD eligibility for 1-month furlough - can I get unemployment during temp layoff?

Yes, you absolutely can and should apply for unemployment during a furlough, regardless of how short it is. There's no minimum time requirement - if you're not being paid for a week or more due to lack of work, you're potentially eligible. Make sure you have: - Your employer's info (address & phone) - Last day worked before furlough - Return date - Your usual wages When you certify, answer honestly that you have a return date. You might still need to complete some work search activities, but having a definite return date can sometimes modify those requirements. I'd recommend applying as soon as the furlough starts.

i was furloughed last yr for 6 weeks, got ui no problem. but took like 3 weeks to get first payment so apply ASAP

There's a one-week unpaid waiting period for all EDD claims, so you'd only get paid for 3 weeks of a 4-week furlough. Make sure your employer issues a temporary layoff notice stating it's due to lack of work (not your fault). When you certify, you'll need to list your return-to-work date and indicate you have a definite date to return to your previous employer. This typically DOES reduce work search requirements, but you still need to be "able and available" for work during the furlough period. If you have trouble reaching EDD to verify anything (which is common), I used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to an agent when I had questions about my return-to-work status. They have a good video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km. Saved me hours of redial frustration when I needed to confirm my work search requirements.

When I got furloughed for 3 weeks last summer the whole thing was a NIGHTMARE!!! Applied right away but EDD never processed my claim until AFTER I was already back at work. Then they said I didn't qualify because I was employed again!!! Had to appeal and it took 2 MONTHS to get that money. The system is TOTALLY BROKEN!!!!

I have a question related to this - I'm being furloughed for 6 weeks starting next month, but I'm allowed to use some vacation time for part of it. If I use vacation pay for 2 weeks, can I still get unemployment for the other 4 weeks? Or does using vacation time disqualify me completely? Sorry to piggyback on this thread but seems related!

Update: I applied online yesterday and the process was pretty straightforward. I had to provide the specific reason (temporary layoff/furlough), my last day worked, and expected return date. The system accepted my application and said I'd be notified about the next steps within 10 days. I'll update again once I hear back about whether I'm approved and if there are any special work search requirements with my guaranteed return date. Thanks everyone for the helpful advice!

Great job filing right away! One thing to keep in mind - even though you have a guaranteed return date, EDD might still require you to register with CalJOBS and complete some work search activities. The requirements are often reduced for temporary layoffs, but not always completely waived. When you get your determination letter, pay close attention to any work search requirements listed. Also, if your return date gets pushed back for any reason, make sure to update EDD immediately so your benefits don't get interrupted. Hope everything goes smoothly for you!

Just wanted to add something important - make sure to keep detailed records of your furlough period! Save any emails or documents from your employer about the furlough dates, the reason (system upgrade), and your guaranteed return date. If there are any issues with your claim or if EDD needs verification, having this documentation will be crucial. Also, don't be surprised if they contact your employer to verify the temporary layoff - this is standard procedure. Some people get worried when EDD reaches out to their workplace, but it's just part of the process to confirm your eligibility. Good luck with everything!

As someone who went through a similar short-term furlough situation last year, I wanted to share a few additional tips that helped me navigate the process smoothly. First, when you certify for benefits, be very clear about your furlough status - answer "yes" when asked if you're able and available for work, but make sure to note in any comment sections that you have a definite return date. Second, if you have any side income or do any freelance work during the furlough (which some people do to make ends meet), make sure to report it accurately when certifying. Even small amounts need to be reported and can affect your weekly benefit amount. Finally, consider setting up direct deposit if you haven't already - it can speed up payment processing once your claim is approved. The fact that your company was proactive about suggesting you file is a good sign that they'll cooperate fully with EDD if contacted for verification. Wishing you a smooth process!