EDD phone interview tomorrow - nervous they're trying to disqualify me, need advice ASAP!

I had my phone interview last month. Don't stress too much! These are standard procedure for many claims, not because they're specifically targeting you. Here's what to prepare: 1. Have your separation letter/documentation ready 2. Know your exact last day worked and reason for separation 3. Have your work search records handy (they might ask) 4. Be honest but concise - don't volunteer extra information 5. Write down key points you want to make about your separation My interview was scheduled for 15 minutes but only took about 8. The interviewer was actually quite nice and just verified the information I had already provided on my application. Make sure you're available at the scheduled time and keep your phone charged!

thy absolutely ARE trying to disqualify u!! my interview was a DISASTER bcause the lady kept cutting me off & twisting my words. ended up getting disqualified because they said I wasn't "available for work" which was BS. had to go through the whole appeal process which took like 2 months!! make sure u record the call (tell them ur recording) and dont let them rush you!!

EDD phone interviews are designed to resolve eligibility issues, not to disqualify you. The employer's job posting after laying you off is concerning though, as it could imply they had work available. Here's how to handle this specific situation: - If asked why you left, stick to "laid off due to lack of work" as that's what your employer told you - If they mention the job posting, explain you were unaware of it and would have stayed if the position remained available - For the interview itself, answer questions directly and truthfully without elaboration - If you disagree with something, state your perspective calmly and factually - Have your employment start/end dates, final pay information, and separation notice ready The interviewer will likely focus on your separation circumstances. They're required to verify eligibility, but in my experience helping clients, most legitimate claims are approved following the interview process. Stay calm and stick to facts.

Just went through this last week! My interview was scheduled for 2:30pm but the EDD rep called at 4pm 🙄 So definitely keep your phone nearby for a few hours after the scheduled time just in case. They asked me: - Exact last day worked - Reason for separation in my own words - If I received any severance or vacation payout - Why I think I'm eligible for benefits - If I'm able and available for work I was super nervous too but it was actually pretty quick! My determination was approved 2 days later. Just be honest and don't overthink your answers. Good luck!!

I've been on unemployment like 4 times in the past and I swear the phone interviews are NEVER on time. I had one where they called 2 hours late! And i've had some where they asked a ton of questions and others where it was super basic. Totally depends on who you get.

To answer your follow-up question: Mentioning the lower salary posting is actually relevant information. You should explain factually: "I was laid off due to lack of work, but later noticed my position posted at a lower salary. I was never offered the option to continue at the reduced rate." This helps establish that you didn't voluntarily quit, which is important for eligibility. Regarding work search questions: They may ask about your job search efforts, but that's typically not the focus of eligibility interviews. Still, be prepared to discuss 2-3 recent job applications if asked. Focus on positions that match your skills/experience to demonstrate you're making reasonable efforts.

Since ur having trouble reaching EDD on the phone, u should try Claimyr. I wasted DAYS trying to get through to EDD myself but Claimyr got me connected to an agent in less than 30 minutes. They have a service that navigates the phone system for you and calls you back when they've got an agent on the line. Totally worth checking out their site at claimyr.com - they even have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km Might be helpful if you have questions after your interview or if you need to follow up about anything!

They only charge if they actually connect you. It was worth it for me cuz I was going crazy trying to get through myself!

Watch out cuz sometimes they ask trick questions!!!! Like my interviewer asked me "Would you be willing to accept a position similar to your last job?" and I said "depends on the salary" and they used that as an excuse to deny me for being too picky about work!!! Just say YES to everything about being available for work!

It's totally normal to feel nervous! One thing that helped me was making a little script with bullet points about my separation so I wouldn't forget important details when nervous. Also, their determination isn't made during the call - the interviewer just collects information and then a separate decision is made later. So even if you feel like the call didn't go great, you could still be approved! Keep us posted on how it goes tomorrow. Sending good vibes!