First-time EDD claim filed - can I limit job search to my specialty career or must I apply to ANY job?

You're at the start of a multi-step process. After submitting your initial claim, you'll need to: 1. Wait for your Notice of Unemployment Insurance Award letter in the mail (usually 10-14 days) 2. Register for UI Online account if you haven't already 3. Begin certifying for benefits every two weeks once prompted Regarding job search requirements, EDD generally allows you to seek work within your usual occupation during the early months of your claim. With 24 years of specialized experience, you wouldn't be expected to immediately apply for jobs outside your field. However, if your job search extends beyond several months, you might need to gradually expand your search criteria. Make sure you document all job search activities (applications, networking, interviews) as EDD can request these records. When certifying, answer "yes" to question #3 about looking for work, and keep detailed records of at least 3 job search activities per week.

when i got laid off last year they made me do a phone interview like 3 weeks after i applied. basic stuff like why i lost my job and if im able to work. make sure u answer ur phone even if u dont recognize the number!!! i missed my first call and it took FOREVER to get rescheduled

About the job search requirements - technically you need to be available for "suitable work," which EDD defines based on several factors including your skills, experience, previous wages, and how long you've been unemployed. First 4-5 weeks: You can definitely focus on your specialty field Months 2-4: Should still be fine in your specialty but may need to consider related positions After 4+ months: The definition of "suitable work" gradually expands The key is documenting everything. Record every application, follow-up, networking event, and industry research session. For someone with your specialized background, quality job search activities in your field are better than random applications to unrelated positions. And yes, networking events absolutely count as valid job search activities! Just document the date, organization hosting the event, and any contacts/leads you developed.

Anyone else notice how the EDD website says one thing but then the people on the phone tell you something completely different?? When I filed last year I got so many conflicting answers about job search requirements. One agent said I HAD to apply for anything available and another said I could be selective based on my experience. Complete chaos over there.

After you file, next steps are: 1) Get ur award letter 2) Wait for ur account number in the mail 3) Register for UI Online 4) Start certifying every 2 weeks Just apply to jobs in ur field. dont worry about taking random jobs yet. If u been doing the same thing 24 yrs, EDD knows u cant just suddenly flip burgers or whatever lol. But after few months they might expect u to broaden ur search if u still havent found work. Best advice: just document EVERYTHING. Every application, every email to recruiters, every resume u send out.

Since you mentioned phone interviews - yes, you might receive a phone interview if there are any questions about your eligibility. This is standard procedure, especially for first-time claimants or those with long job histories at a single employer. The most frustrating part is actually reaching someone at EDD if you have questions or problems. If you need to speak with a representative (which most people eventually do), I highly recommend using Claimyr (claimyr.com). They've developed a system that connects you directly with EDD agents without the endless redial game. Saved me hours of frustration when I needed to resolve an identity verification issue. They have a video demo showing how it works: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km

One other important thing to mention - make sure you certify for benefits every two weeks ON TIME. Set calendar reminders. The certification period opens on Sunday and closes on Saturday of the following week. If you miss the window, it creates all sorts of headaches. When certifying, be very careful with question #2 about refusing work. If you're offered a position that doesn't match your skills/experience/wage history and you decline it, that's not technically refusing "suitable" work. But many people answer incorrectly and their payments get held up. Also, if you have any pension distributions from your previous employer, report them accurately. After 24 years, you might have pension benefits that could affect your weekly benefit amount.

just wondering did u already get the UI Online account setup email? sometimes they send it right away and sometimes it takes forever. check ur spam folder too cuz thats where mine went

As someone who works in HR, I can tell you that EDD generally allows claimants with specialized skills to focus their job search within their field, especially during the early months of unemployment. They understand that career professionals can't immediately pivot to entirely different industries. However, here's what many people don't realize: while you're searching for jobs in your specialty, you should still document your efforts to be somewhat flexible. For example, note that you're considering related positions that might use your transferable skills, or slightly lower-level positions within your industry. This demonstrates good faith effort while still honoring your expertise. Also, be prepared for the first certification to be delayed. It's extremely common for first-time claimants, especially those with long-term previous employment, to have their first payment held pending review. Don't panic if this happens - it's standard procedure.

Welcome to the EDD journey! As someone who went through this process about 18 months ago after a similar long-term employment situation, I can relate to feeling overwhelmed. The good news is that with your specialized background and long work history, EDD will likely be reasonable about your job search requirements. A few additional tips from my experience: - Download the EDD mobile app once you get your UI Online account set up - makes certifying much easier - Consider reaching out to aerospace industry recruiters early on, even if you're not ready to interview yet. They often have insights about market conditions and can keep you in mind for future openings - LinkedIn Premium might be worth the cost during your job search - the InMail credits and expanded search features can be valuable for someone in a specialized field Also, don't underestimate the emotional side of this transition. After 24 years with one company, job searching feels completely foreign. Be patient with yourself as you learn the process. The community here is really supportive, so don't hesitate to ask questions as they come up!