Mandatory RESEA appointment with EDD - what happens if I already have job prospects?

RESEA (Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment) appointments are randomly selected - it's not that they specifically think you need help. It's mandatory though, and yes, missing it could jeopardize your benefits. The appointment typically lasts about an hour. They'll verify your eligibility, review your work search activities, help develop an employment plan, and refer you to reemployment services. Since you're already actively interviewing, just bring documentation of your job search efforts. Let them know about your upcoming interviews - they'll be happy to hear it. You absolutely need to attend even if you have job prospects. Consider it just another box to check in the unemployment process.

I had one of these RESEA things back in January. Such a waste of 45 minutes honestly. The EDD person just went through a checklist and asked about my job search. They wanted to see that I was applying to jobs and following up. Bring notes about where you've applied, when, and any follow-ups. Take screenshots of confirmation emails from applications if you have them. They'll probably ask about your resume too, so have that ready to share on Zoom. The most annoying part was they made me register with CalJOBS even though I was already using LinkedIn and Indeed. Just go with it and do what they ask - not worth losing benefits over.

THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS RIDICULOUS!! I got selected for RESEA after only 2 weeks on unemployment!!! Had THREE interviews scheduled already but they still made me waste my time with their pointless meeting. The woman kept trying to tell me about resume formatting when I WORKED IN HR FOR 6 YEARS!!! These EDD people just check boxes and don't care about your actual situation. Just another way they make it difficult to get the benefits WE PAID INTO!!!

I went through a RESEA appointment about two months ago. Here's what to expect: 1. They'll verify your identity at the start of the Zoom 2. Review your work search efforts (have dates/companies ready) 3. They'll ask about any barriers to employment you might have 4. They'll likely assign you to register with CalJOBS if you haven't already 5. You might get information on workshops or training opportunities The whole thing took about 50 minutes for me. Be prepared to answer questions about what kind of jobs you're looking for, salary expectations, and your availability. They might ask if you've turned down any work too. Just be honest about your interviews and prospects. They're actually happy when people are actively job searching - makes their job easier!

Has anyone tried calling EDD to reschedule these RESEA appointments? I got a notice too but the time conflicts with an actual job interview I already had scheduled!

i fogrot to add - make sure ur in a quiet place for the zoom call with good internet!!! my connection kept dropping during my RESEA and the lady got annoyed and made me reschedule the whole thing which delayed my payments!! also wear something decent even tho its just zoom, they notice that stuff

Just to add some clarification on the RESEA program: it's federally mandated and states are required to conduct these assessments for a percentage of UI claimants. The selection is partly random and partly based on various factors that might indicate a claimant could benefit from early intervention services. If you're selected, attendance is mandatory to maintain your eligibility for benefits. The purpose is two-fold: to ensure you're meeting eligibility requirements and to provide reemployment assistance. For your upcoming appointment, I recommend having these ready: 1. Your resume (digital version you can share) 2. List of jobs you've applied for (dates, company names, positions) 3. Documentation of interviews or follow-ups 4. Any questions you have about job search resources Since you already have interviews lined up, this will likely be a straightforward appointment. They'll probably be pleased to see you're actively pursuing employment opportunities.

i had 2 go to one of these last year & it wasn't that bad tbh. lady was actually nice & just wanted 2 make sure i was looking 4 work. showed her my indeed account with all my applications & she was happy. whole thing took like 30 mins. don't stress 2 much!