Just discovered EDD training programs but I'm past deadline - anyone else miss out on this benefit?

I totally get your frustration!!! The EDD system is a MAZE of hidden benefits that nobody tells you about. I missed out on the training program too and didn't find out until month 5 of my unemployment. It's like they WANT us to fail sometimes. The worst part is how they make it seem like it's YOUR fault for not knowing about something they never clearly explained!!

This is one of EDD's least publicized benefits - the California Training Benefits (CTB) program. You're right that there's a time limit, but it's actually longer than a few weeks. You can apply for CTB approval within the first 16 weeks of your claim. The catch is that you need to have an eligible training program already identified and be ready to enroll. For anyone reading this who's still within that window, here's what to do: 1. Find an approved training program (community college vocational programs often qualify) 2. Call EDD and specifically ask about CTB approval 3. Submit the required paperwork before your 16-week deadline If approved, you can continue receiving benefits while training and may be excused from the weekly job search requirements. It's a great program but sadly, EDD does a poor job informing claimants about it.

same happened to me last year lol... nobody tells u anything important until its 2 late. the whole system is broken af

I went through something similar with the training benefits. EDD really should do better with communicating these options to claimants. When I needed to reach someone at EDD about my claim and the training program, I used Claimyr (claimyr.com) and actually got through to a representative in about 20 minutes instead of spending days calling. They have a video showing how it works here: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km It helped me sort out my training approval questions and get the proper documentation submitted. While it was too late for me to get into the program I initially wanted, I was able to get approved for a different one that started later.

I think u can still apply for traing after 16 weeks but u might need a special review or something? not 100% sure but worth asking about

I worked as an EDD specialist for 5 years and can confirm that the Training Benefits program is poorly communicated to claimants. Here's what most people don't know: 1. The California Training Benefits (CTB) program has a standard 16-week application window from your claim start date 2. You can request an extension of this window for "good cause" 3. Even if you miss both deadlines, you can apply for the separate Training Extension (TE) program 4. TE approval allows you to extend your benefits beyond your normal benefit year when in approved training The real issue is that many EDD representatives themselves aren't fully trained on these programs. Always ask to speak with a CTB specialist specifically. For those interested in this program, eligible training includes vocational programs, certificate programs, and some degree programs if they lead directly to employment. Job retraining through formal education is one of the most valuable but underutilized unemployment benefits in California.

I'm in the EXACT same boat!!! Been unemployed for 6 months after working as an office manager for 7 years. I only found out about the training benefit last week when my friend mentioned it. Called EDD immediately and they basically laughed at me for not knowing earlier! I asked why this information wasn't prominently displayed ANYWHERE in my UI Online account or in any of the materials they sent me. The rep just said "it's mentioned in the handbook" - which it is, buried on page 27 in a tiny paragraph! This system is RIGGED to keep us from accessing benefits that could actually help us get back to work in a new field. I'm beyond frustrated!!!

For anyone reading this who's still within their 16-week window, here are the specific steps to apply for California Training Benefits: 1. Identify an eligible training program (community colleges, adult education programs, or certified vocational schools) 2. Contact EDD specifically about CTB by calling 1-866-333-4606 3. Complete the DE 3100 form "Training Benefits Application" 4. Submit enrollment verification from your training provider 5. Wait for a determination (typically 10-15 days) If approved: - You'll be exempt from the work search requirement - You can collect your regular UI benefits while in training - You may qualify for extended benefits through the Training Extension program Don't rely on your regular EDD representative to volunteer this information. You need to specifically ask about California Training Benefits (CTB) program.

This is exactly why I tell everyone who's newly unemployed to visit their local America's Job Center (One-Stop Career Center) within the first month of filing their claim! The staff there are usually much better informed about ALL available programs, not just the basic UI benefits. I learned about the training programs during my orientation at the job center, and it made all the difference. I was able to get into a medical assistant certification program that only took 8 months, and I'm now working in healthcare making more than my previous job. The sad truth is that EDD treats these programs like "best kept secrets" instead of promoting them as valuable reemployment tools. For anyone still reading who might be eligible - don't just call the regular EDD number. Go IN PERSON to your local workforce development office. They have dedicated staff who specialize in training programs and can walk you through the entire process. It shouldn't be this hard to access benefits we've paid into, but unfortunately you have to be your own advocate in this system.