I wonder if theres a calculator somewhere that shows exactly how much they'll reduce ur benefit by based on what u earn? I'm always trying to figure out if picking up an extra shift is even worth it lol

Just wanted to add my experience since I went through this exact same worry! I work at a hotel and had a really busy week during a conference where I made almost double my usual hours. I was terrified to report it because I thought they'd shut down my claim. But everyone here is absolutely right - I reported everything honestly, got $0 for that one week, and then the next week when my hours dropped back down, my benefits resumed like nothing happened. The system really is set up to handle this kind of thing. The key thing I learned is that you HAVE to keep certifying every two weeks no matter what, even if you know you won't get paid that week. Missing your certification is what can actually mess up your claim, not having a good week of earnings. Stay honest and keep certifying - you'll be fine!

Just wanted to add my experience from last month - I was in almost the exact same situation. Filed my claim in December 2024, exhausted benefits in March, got that same confusing message about extensions. After spending 3 days trying to get through to EDD (finally succeeded using the 2511 trick - call at exactly 8:01 AM and press 1-3-4 immediately), the rep confirmed there are NO automatic extensions right now. However, she did mention that if you're willing to enter an approved training program, you might qualify for Training Extension Benefits. The catch is you have to apply BEFORE your regular benefits run out, not after. So for anyone reading this whose balance is getting low - look into this option now, don't wait! Also, make sure you keep certifying if the system lets you, even with a $0 balance. Sometimes there are processing delays and you don't want to lose eligibility for any potential benefits. Good luck OP - this whole system is needlessly confusing.

I'm dealing with something similar right now - my claim balance hit zero last week and I got the exact same message about extensions. After reading through all these responses, it sounds like that message is just outdated and misleading. For anyone else in this situation, I found some additional resources that might help bridge the gap: - Local food banks and community assistance programs (many don't require lengthy application processes) - Gig work apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, etc. while job hunting (I know it's not ideal but helps with immediate cash flow) - Check if your local library has free job search resources and computer access Also, I called my county's social services office directly instead of trying to navigate everything online, and they were actually really helpful in explaining what programs I might qualify for immediately vs. what has waiting lists. This whole situation is so stressful when you're already dealing with job loss. Hang in there everyone! 💪

I went through something very similar last year! Had a fraud flag on my UI account (also completely false) and was terrified it would mess up my maternity leave benefits. Here's what I learned: The fraud case WON'T automatically disqualify you from SDI/PFL, but it might cause delays during processing. What saved me was being super proactive - I called EDD before filing my SDI claim and explained the situation. They put notes on my account that helped prevent the verification delays others mentioned. Also, don't wait to start your appeal process! I made the mistake of putting it off thinking it would resolve itself. File those DE 1000M forms ASAP and include a clear statement that you believe this is identity theft since you never received the funds they claim you owe. One tip that really helped me: when you do file your SDI claim online, include a brief note in the comments section referencing your ongoing UI fraud appeal. This gives the SDI processor context if they see any flags on your account. You've got this! Start working on the appeals now while you have time, and don't let this stress affect your pregnancy. The systems are separate enough that you should still get your maternity benefits.

I work as a benefits advisor and wanted to add some important timing considerations for your situation. Since you're due July 30th, you can typically file your SDI claim starting around May 26th (9 weeks before your due date). Given your fraud case complications, I'd recommend filing exactly at that 9-week mark to give maximum time for any verification delays. Also, while everyone's right that UI and SDI are separate systems, there's one thing to watch out for - if your Social Security number has been flagged for potential identity theft in their system, it could trigger additional verification steps for ANY EDD benefit. This happened to a client of mine last year. Pro tip: When you submit your fraud appeals, request that EDD remove any identity theft flags from your SSN once the appeals are resolved. This will prevent future delays on legitimate claims. You can also ask them to put a note in your file stating that you're expecting and will need SDI benefits soon - sometimes this helps prioritize the fraud case resolution. Don't panic though - even in worst case scenarios, SDI benefits are retroactive, so you'll get paid for the full period you're eligible even if there are initial delays.

One last bit of advice - if you've been scheduled for an appeal hearing, take time to carefully review the Judge's Handbook on the CUIAB website. It's available publicly and shows exactly how judges are instructed to handle appeals, including late appeals. This information can be incredibly valuable as you prepare your case. The judges actually have significant discretion in accepting late appeals when there's a reasonable explanation.

Don't panic - you're definitely not out of options yet! I went through something very similar about 6 months ago. The "good cause" standard for late appeals is actually pretty reasonable, especially when you're dealing with the stress of potentially owing back thousands of dollars. A few things that helped me: - Be very specific about WHY you missed the deadline in your explanation (overwhelmed by the situation, didn't fully understand the notice, etc.) - Mention that an EDD rep initially told you everything was fine - this shows you were trying to follow proper procedures - The fact that your employer changed their story from "restructuring" to "misconduct" is suspicious and works in your favor I'd also suggest calling EDD to speak with someone before submitting if possible, just to get their guidance on your specific situation. The representatives I spoke with were actually pretty helpful once I got through. You've got this! The system is designed to be confusing, and the judges understand that regular people don't navigate this stuff every day.

OP, what industry do you work in? Some industries (like restaurant work) are more prone to wage reporting errors.

I went through this exact same issue about 6 months ago! The key thing that worked for me was requesting a "wage detail report" directly from EDD - it shows exactly what employers reported vs what you actually earned. You can request it by calling the UI customer service line or through UI Online. Once I had that report, I could see exactly where the discrepancy was (turned out one of my employers had reported the wrong quarters). Then I followed Zara's advice about mailing documentation. The whole process took about 6 weeks but they did correct it. Don't give up - you've got this! 💪