Eligible for EDD after short-term contract job ends? Been with temp position since October
Hey all! I started working a temp contract position back in October after leaving my previous job. My current contract officially ends January 31st, and I'm getting nervous since my manager hasn't mentioned extending me. I've never filed for unemployment before and I'm not sure if I'd even qualify since I knew the job was temporary when I accepted it. Can you apply for unemployment when a temp contract ends as scheduled? Or does that count as me 'expecting' to be unemployed so I wouldn't qualify? Just trying to prepare financially if they don't keep me on after the end date...
19 comments

Anna Kerber
Yes, you can absolutely file for unemployment when your temp contract ends! That's considered a layoff due to 'lack of work' which is a qualifying reason for UI benefits. The key is that the employer is ending the relationship, not you choosing to leave. Make sure you have documentation showing your contract end date. When you certify, be honest that you knew it was temporary, but that doesn't disqualify you.
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Roger Romero
AuthorOh that's a relief! I was worried that since I knew it was temporary going in, they'd say I wasn't eligible. Do you know if I should wait until my last day to apply or can I submit the application a few days before my contract ends?
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Niko Ramsey
i was in the same boat last yr. temp job for 6 months, got ui after no problem 👍
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Roger Romero
AuthorThanks for sharing your experience! That's reassuring to hear someone in a similar situation was approved.
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Seraphina Delan
To add to what others said - technically you need to have earned enough wages in your base period to qualify. Since you mentioned leaving a job before starting this temp position in October, those wages would count too (as long as they're within the base period). The EDD looks at earnings 5-17 months before you file, so having worked before this temp job will help your claim amount. Just make sure when you file you list ALL employers from the past 18 months.
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Jabari-Jo
this is why the EDD system makes no sence!! why do they look at earning from so long ago?? shouldn't they just look at your most recent job??? the whole base period thing is confusing
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Kristin Frank
Have they given ANY hints about keeping you? Sometimes companies drag their feet on converting temps. I'd recommend asking your manager directly about your status before worrying about unemployment. Nothing to lose at this point!
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Roger Romero
AuthorI've tried to subtly ask about future projects, but my manager just says they'll discuss the team structure "soon." I'll try being more direct this week. You're right - nothing to lose!
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Micah Trail
When my contract ended last year, I tried calling EDD to file my claim and got the DREADED "we're experiencing high call volume" message for DAYS!!! I was getting so stressed because I needed to file right away. Then I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to an actual EDD rep in about 20 minutes instead of spending days redialing! They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km Not saying you'll definitely need it, but if you run into phone troubles when trying to file or ask questions about your specific situation, it saved me so much frustration.
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Nia Watson
do u still have to wait on hold after they connect u? or does it skip the line completely?
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Jabari-Jo
dont listen to these people!!! u CANT get unemployment if u KNEW the job was temporary when u took it!!! thats considered voluntary unemployment!!! my cousin tried and they DENIED him!!
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Anna Kerber
This is incorrect information. End of a temporary assignment is absolutely a qualifying reason for unemployment. Your cousin was likely denied for a different reason - perhaps they didn't earn enough in their base period, or there were other issues with their claim. The EDD specifically lists "end of temporary or seasonal employment" as a valid reason to file.
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Seraphina Delan
Since you mentioned this is your first time filing, here are some tips for when your contract does end: 1. File your claim online through UI Online the same day your contract ends 2. Be prepared to list ALL employers from the past 18 months with contact info 3. When asked for separation reason, select "Laid Off/No Work" 4. For the question about whether you expect to return, select "No" 5. You'll need to certify every two weeks - set calendar reminders! 6. You MUST look for work while receiving benefits - document all job search activities Just be honest throughout the application. Temp work ending is a standard qualifying reason.
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Roger Romero
AuthorThis is incredibly helpful, thank you for the step-by-step guidance! I'm writing all this down. One question - for the work search requirement, how many jobs do I need to apply to each week? Is there a minimum number?
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Nia Watson
my advice: start looking for a new job ASAP don't wait till the contract ends. unemployment pays way less than working and it's stressful dealing with EDD.
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Roger Romero
AuthorYou're absolutely right. I've been applying to a few places already, but I'm definitely going to ramp up my job search now. Unemployment would just be a safety net while I find something else.
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Anna Kerber
In response to your question about work search requirements - EDD generally expects you to make at least 3 job contacts per week, but there's no specific number they enforce. The key is to document everything: application date, company name, position, how you applied, and any response. It's better to do more than less. Keep a detailed log in case they ever request proof of your work search activities.
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Roger Romero
AuthorPerfect, I can definitely do at least 3 job contacts weekly. I'll start a spreadsheet to track all the details you mentioned. Thanks for the specific advice!
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Javier Hernandez
Just wanted to add - when you do file your claim, make sure to keep copies of everything related to your temp contract (original job offer, any contract extensions, final termination notice, etc.). EDD sometimes requests documentation to verify your separation reason, especially with temp work since some people confuse it with quitting. Having that paperwork ready can speed up your claim processing. Also, if your temp agency finds you another assignment before your benefits start, you'd need to report that income - but crossing that bridge when you come to it! Good luck with everything!
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