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.