Running out of EDD benefits after layoff - can I extend my UI claim?

Unfortunately, there are currently no federal extension programs available like there were during COVID. Once your regular UI benefits are exhausted, that's it for this benefit year. Your options are: 1. Keep certifying until your balance hits $0 (to ensure you get all available benefits) 2. Consider applying for other assistance programs like CalFresh (food benefits) or CalWORKs if you have children 3. Check if you qualify for State Disability Insurance (SDI) if you have any medical conditions 4. Continue your work search - document all your applications as EDD may audit this later Your benefit year lasts for 12 months from when you first filed, but you can only receive the maximum benefit amount calculated at the beginning of your claim. After your benefit year ends, you could file a new claim IF you've worked and earned enough wages since filing your current claim.

the system is RIGGED!!! they leave us hanging when we need help the most. i ran out of benefits last month and had to move back with my parents at 34!! so embarassing. EDD should extend benefits when theres no jobs but they dont care about regular people. they make the process impossible on purpose so people just give up!! my advice: call them DIRECTLY and demand to speak to a supervisor about getting an extension. they wont tell you about options unless you push them!!

If you're having trouble reaching EDD by phone (which is pretty much everyone), I'd highly recommend using Claimyr. It's a service that basically connects you with an EDD agent by navigating their phone system for you. Saved me HOURS of frustration last month when I had a similar issue. You can check out their site at claimyr.com - they even have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km While an agent probably can't extend your benefits beyond what's legally available, they might be able to tell you about other programs you qualify for or explain your options more clearly. Worth a try when you're getting desperate!

have u looked into fed-ed extensions? my cousin got that after her regular benefits ran out

I went thru this last year!! So I found out that if u work even part time while on unemployment and report those wages, it actually extends how long ur benefits last because they don't pay you the full amount each week. Like if u make $200 at a part time job, they reduce ur weekly benefit by that amount but ur claim balance lasts longer. Maybe try getting even a temp job while u keep looking? That's what helped me stretch my benefits an extra month.

When I ran out of unemployment, I instantly applied for CalFresh (food stamps) and was approved for $281/month which at least helped with groceries while I job hunted. The application is online and pretty straightforward. Also check out your county's General Assistance program - they offer small cash grants in some cases where you have no income. Also, have you checked if your local workforce development center offers any paid training programs? Sometimes they have stipends or can help place you in subsidized employment while you build new skills. Just a thought since the warehouse industry has been going through some rough patches lately.

Update: I managed to get through to EDD using that Claimyr service someone recommended above. The agent confirmed what everyone here said - there are no extensions right now. BUT she helped me with two important things: 1. She said I should apply for a new claim after my benefit year ends in December (even though I haven't worked much) because some of my older wages might qualify me for a small new claim 2. She helped me fix a pending payment I didn't even realize was stuck in the system from 3 weeks ago! Extra $450 I didn't know I was getting! Still stressing about the long term, but at least I have a better understanding of my options now. Thanks everyone for your help! Off to apply for CalFresh next.

Glad you got through to EDD and found that extra payment! That's a huge relief. Just wanted to add that when you do apply for CalFresh, make sure to mention that your unemployment is ending soon - they can process your application faster if you're facing an immediate loss of income. Also, if you haven't already, check with 211 (dial 2-1-1) for local resources like food banks and emergency rental assistance programs in your area. They might have programs specifically for people transitioning off unemployment benefits. Hang in there - the job market has been brutal but it's slowly improving in some sectors!

I'm in a similar situation and this thread has been incredibly helpful! Just wanted to add that if you're looking for immediate work while job hunting, consider checking out temp agencies - they often have warehouse, packing, or general labor positions that can start within a few days. Even if it's just a week or two of work, as someone mentioned above, it can help stretch your remaining UI benefits since they reduce your weekly payment instead of your total balance. Also, don't forget to document EVERY job you apply for with dates and company names. EDD can audit your work search activities even after your benefits end, and you want to be prepared. I keep a simple spreadsheet with application dates, company names, and positions applied for. One more thing - if you haven't already, update your resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect your recent warehouse experience. The logistics industry is still growing in many areas of California, and having current experience might help you stand out. Wishing you the best of luck!

Hey Emily, I just went through this exact situation a few months ago and want to share what worked for me. First, definitely apply for CalFresh ASAP - even if you think you won't qualify, you might be surprised. I got $194/month which was a huge help with groceries. Second, check if your county has an Emergency Rental Assistance program. I'm in Riverside County and they helped me with 2 months of rent when I was between unemployment ending and finding work. Each county runs their own program so search "[your county] emergency rental assistance." Third, consider looking into California's Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) program if you have any dependents, or General Assistance if you don't. The amounts are small but every bit helps. Last thing - I ended up finding work through a staffing agency that specialized in warehouse/logistics. They had positions that started immediately and some even offered temp-to-perm opportunities. Try Randstad, Kelly Services, or Adecco if they operate in your area. You're going to get through this! The period between benefits ending and finding stable work is terrifying, but there are safety nets available if you know where to look. Feel free to DM me if you want specific info about any of these programs.