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Filing for unemployment: What to expect and say when talking to EDD agent?

Hey everyone, I'm about to file for unemployment and I'm feeling a bit nervous. Has anyone gone through this process recently? Any tips on what to say when I talk to the agent? I want to make sure I don't mess anything up. Thanks in advance for any advice!

Tom Maxon

I found a way to solve unemployment filing difficulties, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWVFvxmc0Sg

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StarSeeker

I just went through this last month. Make sure you have all your employment info ready - dates, company names, addresses. They'll ask about your reason for unemployment, so be clear and honest. Good luck!

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Dmitry Volkov

Thanks for the advice! Did they ask for any specific documents? I'm worried I might not have everything I need.

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StarSeeker

They didn't ask me for docs right away, but keep your W-2s and last pay stub handy just in case. Better to be over-prepared, ya know? 👍

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Ava Martinez

dont forget to mention any severance pay or vacation payout. they'll ask about that too

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Miguel Ortiz

Ugh, good luck getting through to anyone. I've been trying for weeks and can never get past the busy signal. The whole system is a joke 🤡

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Zainab Omar

I feel you. It's so frustrating. Have you tried calling right when they open? Sometimes that works for me.

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Miguel Ortiz

Tried everything. Early morning, late afternoon, even tried at like 2 AM once lol. No luck 😫

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Connor Murphy

Hey, I found a way to actually get someone on the phone. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Check out this video: https://youtu.be/Ize0EkN4HDI

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Miguel Ortiz

For real? That sounds too good to be true. Has anyone else tried this?

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Connor Murphy

I was skeptical too, but I was desperate. It actually worked for me. Got through in about an hour instead of days of trying.

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Yara Sayegh

Idk man, paying to get through seems kinda sketchy. Shouldn't this be a free service?

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Connor Murphy

I get it, but for me, the time saved was worth it. To each their own tho 🤷‍♂️

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NebulaNova

When you talk to the agent, be sure to ask about any additional programs you might qualify for. Sometimes there are extra benefits available depending on your situation. Don't leave money on the table!

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Keisha Williams

Pro tip: Write down everything they tell you during the call. It's easy to forget details when you're nervous. Also, get the agent's name and ID number if possible. It helps if you need to follow up later.

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Dmitry Volkov

That's great advice, thank you! I'll definitely do that. 💯

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Paolo Conti

Anyone else notice how the questions have changed recently? I filed last year and again last month, and it seems like they're asking for more details now. Might be due to all the fraud cases they've had.

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Amina Diallo

Yeah, I noticed that too. They asked me about my work search efforts in way more detail this time around.

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Oliver Schulz

Makes sense with all the scams going on. Better for them to be thorough I guess 🤷‍♀️

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Natasha Kuznetsova

Here's a comprehensive guide based on my recent experience: 1. Prepare Your Information: - Social Security Number - Driver's License or State ID - Employment history for the last 18 months (employer names, addresses, phone numbers, start/end dates) - Reason for unemployment - Bank account info for direct deposit 2. During the Call: - Be honest and clear about your situation - Ask about work search requirements - Inquire about additional programs you might qualify for - Get clarification on anything you don't understand 3. After Filing: - Note your confirmation number - Set up an online account if possible - Keep records of all your job search activities 4. Follow-Up: - Check your mail/email regularly for any requests for additional information - Respond promptly to all communications Remember, the process can be slow and frustrating, but stay patient and persistent. Good luck!

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Dmitry Volkov

Wow, this is incredibly helpful! Thank you so much for taking the time to write all this out. I feel much more prepared now. 🙏

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AstroAdventurer

This should be pinned to the top of the sub. Great info!

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Javier Mendoza

Quick question - do you know if gig work affects unemployment eligibility? I've been doing some food delivery on the side.

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Natasha Kuznetsova

Gig work can affect your benefits, but it depends on how much you're earning. Make sure to report all income when you certify each week. The unemployment office will determine if it affects your eligibility or benefit amount.

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Emma Wilson

dont stress to much about it. just be honest and youll be fine. we're all in the same boat here 🚣‍♀️

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Malik Davis

Has anyone had luck with the online application? I've heard mixed things about whether it's better to call or apply online.

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Isabella Santos

I did mine online and it was pretty smooth. Just make sure you have all your info ready before you start.

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Ravi Gupta

Online worked for me too, but I had a simple case. If your situation is complicated, calling might be better.

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GalacticGuru

Whatever you do, DON'T GIVE UP! It took me 3 months of calling and waiting to finally get my benefits sorted. It sucks, but persistence pays off. You got this! 💪

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Dmitry Volkov

3 months?! That's insane. I'm glad you finally got it worked out. Thanks for the encouragement!

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