EDD says benefits exhausted but I lost my seasonal Forest Service job - how to requalify?

You need to contact EDD directly about this. Since your employment situation has significantly changed (the elimination of your expected return-to-work), you may qualify for a new claim or claim extension. This isn't something that automatically updates in their system - you need to speak with a representative who can review your specific case and make adjustments. Your situation is considered a 'material change in employment status' which can sometimes allow for reconsideration even within the same benefit year. But you absolutely must speak with an EDD rep about this.

same thing hapnd to me last year when my seasonal job at yosemite got eliminated. so frustrating!!! the system isnt designed for seasonal workers who lose jobs midway thru

The EDD system is so broken when it comes to seasonal workers! They expect you to somehow magically know your job will disappear months in advance. I went through this exact nightmare when I worked fire prevention seasonally. Here's what you need to know: 1) The message about 'received all benefits payable' usually means you've exhausted your claim balance 2) Typically you CAN'T file a new claim until benefit year ends 3) BUT job elimination can qualify as an exception 4) You need to speak with a Tier 2 specialist (not just any agent) 5) They'll evaluate if you qualify for a new claim based on 'compelling circumstances' The key thing is documenting that your job was eliminated through no fault of your own. Do you have any termination paperwork or official communication from Forest Service about the layoffs? That will be important.

Try using Claimyr to connect with EDD. I was in a similar situation with my seasonal tourism job and spent days trying to reach someone. Claimyr connected me with an EDD agent in about 20 minutes. You can see how it works in their demo video: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km The site is claimyr.com - definitely worth it when you're in these complicated situations that the automated system can't handle. You need to talk to an actual person who can look at your specific circumstances.

why dont u just go on PUA instead of regular unemployment? thats what its for

I previously worked as an EDD claims specialist, and I can provide some clarity on this situation. When your job circumstances change significantly during a benefit year, you might qualify for what's called a 'DE 1101I - Affidavit of Unemployment Insurance Continued Claim' to address the new circumstances. Specifically for your situation: 1) You need to contact EDD and explain that your expected return-to-work job has been permanently eliminated (this is a material change) 2) Request to speak with a Tier 2 specialist who can evaluate your case for possible exceptions 3) Provide documentation of the Forest Service layoffs (RIF notices, termination letter, etc.) 4) They may need to process what's called a 'backdated new claim' if you have sufficient qualifying wages in your base period 5) If approved, this would essentially reset your claim based on the new circumstances This is definitely a situation where speaking directly with a knowledgeable representative is essential - the online system isn't designed to handle these nuanced situations automatically.

something similar happened to me when i got laid off from seasonal work at state parks. i called EDD like 50 times and finally got through. they told me I needed to wait until my benefit year ended which was total BS since i had no job!! ended up having to take a crappy warehouse job just to pay bills. the whole system is designed to make ppl give up IMO

UPDATE: I finally got through to EDD this morning after trying for three days straight. The rep confirmed that I need to speak with a Tier 2 specialist because my situation requires special handling. They've put me on a callback list (said 3-5 business days). I'll update again once I hear back from them. Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions!

FINAL UPDATE: Good news! The Tier 2 specialist called me back today and reviewed my case. Because my job was permanently eliminated (not just seasonal layoff), they're processing what they called a 'backdated new claim.' I had to provide my Forest Service RIF notice and answer questions about my work history. They said I should see the claim update in my UI Online account within 10 days, and then I can certify for benefits again. Such a relief! Thanks to everyone who helped me navigate this complicated situation.