Is it too late to file an EDD claim if I lost my job 4 months ago?

You're still within the timeframe to file! In California, you can file an unemployment claim within 52 weeks of becoming unemployed. You won't get paid for those past weeks automatically, but you should file ASAP to start getting benefits moving forward. Once your claim is approved, you can also request "backdate" for your claim to your actual last day of work, though you'll need to complete certifications for all those weeks.

ur fine, i filed like 6 months after getting fired last yr. EDD will backdate it but u gotta ask them specifically when u talk to them. good luck getting thru tho lol

I WAITED 2 MONTHS AFTER LOSING MY JOB AND THEY MADE ME JUMP THROUGH HOOPS!!! Had to explain "good cause" for not filing right away and provide documents. EDD is looking for ANY reason to deny claims these days. Call them IMMEDIATELY and get ready to explain why you waited so long!

Just to add on to what others have said, remember you'll need to certify for each of those back weeks separately. My boyfriend had to backdate 3 months and it took him forever to go through all the certifications. Make sure you accurately report any income during those weeks. And don't get too excited about a big payout - they'll likely put the money on your Money Network card gradually over several weeks rather than all at once.

I recommend using Claimyr to reach EDD quickly rather than spending hours on hold. I was in a similar situation (filed 3 months late) and needed to speak directly with an agent about backdating my claim. Used their service at claimyr.com and got connected to an EDD rep in about 15 minutes instead of calling for days. They have a video demo showing how it works: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km. Definitely worth it when you're dealing with potential backpay amounts.

Wait I'm confused... does backdating mean they pay u for the weeks u didn't certify? Or do u just get to certify late? And how do u even remember what weeks u worked or didn't work from months ago?? This seems really complicated.

Update: I filed my claim online today and requested backdating to March 15th. Now I'm trying to get through to a representative to make sure the backdating request goes through properly. Been calling the 800 number for 3 hours with no luck. Is it always this difficult to reach someone?

I decided to try the Claimyr service that someone mentioned above. Honestly was skeptical, but I got through to an EDD rep in about 20 minutes! They confirmed my backdating request is now in the system and told me I'll need to certify for all those weeks once it's approved. The rep also mentioned I should receive an inbox message in UI Online within 5-7 days about the backdating decision. What a relief! Now I just need to gather all my information to accurately certify for those past weeks.