


Ask the community...
why is edd so confusng with there rules????? i swear they try 2 make it hard on purpose so people mess up and they can deny benefits smh
One other important detail - when he certifies, make sure he answers "Yes" to the question "Did you work or earn money, WHETHER YOU WERE PAID OR NOT?" for the week containing that Friday meeting. Then he'll enter Friday's date, the number of hours (4), and the gross amount he'll be paid. The system will prompt him through all the necessary information.
Another tip: when you do get through to someone, get their ID number or name and take detailed notes about what they tell you. I've had situations where one rep tells me something completely different from another, and having documentation of previous conversations helps tremendously, especially if you need to file an appeal later.
Update for anyone wondering - I FINALLY got through this morning! Used the 8:01am trick and called on the Spanish line (pressed 2, then asked for English when someone answered). Only waited about 20 minutes. Turns out my former employer contested my claim saying I quit (I didn't - was definitely laid off with 30 other people). Now I have to wait for an eligibility interview in two weeks, but at least I know what's happening now. The rep also expedited my interview since I explained my financial situation. Thanks everyone for your help!
Excellent news! Make sure you gather any documentation that proves you were laid off (termination letter, emails, text messages with supervisors, etc.). Having these ready for your eligibility interview will speed things up significantly. Also, continue certifying every two weeks while waiting for the interview.
Here's a definitive answer based on EDD's latest guidance (March 2025): The virtual orientation process varies by claim type and factors in your application responses: 1. Standard UI claims: Watch both videos = completion (status updates in 2-3 business days) 2. Claims with special circumstances (language needs, industry-specific requirements, etc.): Watch videos AND receive follow-up call The confusion stems from EDD using the same 'Virtual Orientation' portal for both processes. Your confirmation email should specify if you need a call, but many people miss this detail. Since your status is still 'Action Required' after completing the videos, I recommend: 1. Check your confirmation email for any mention of a follow-up call 2. Wait 3 full business days for system update 3. If still showing 'Action Required' after day 3, contact EDD One important note: You can still certify for benefits while waiting for the orientation status to update.
when i did my orientation last year i had to do way more than just watch videos, had to fill out a whole worksheet and upload it, then had interview. sounds like they keep changing everything!!! typical edd chaos lol
UPDATE: I had my hearing yesterday and wanted to follow up! It lasted about 50 minutes. I used several of your suggestions: 1. I explained my childcare situation at the beginning 2. I brought new coloring books and quiet toys which worked for about 30 minutes 3. I used the library study room suggestion!! This was a LIFESAVER because when my daughter got fussy, I was able to step outside the room briefly where my friend could watch her in the main area while I finished testifying The judge was actually very understanding about my situation. My employer tried to argue that my childcare emergencies weren't valid reasons for leaving early, and the judge specifically asked them about their flexibility policies for parents, which made them look pretty bad! Now I just have to wait for the decision. Thank you all so much for your help - I felt so much more prepared!
This is great to hear! The fact that the judge questioned your employer about their flexibility policies for parents is actually a good sign. That suggests they're considering whether your employer made reasonable accommodations before terminating you. Typically you should receive a decision within 7-14 days. Fingers crossed for you!
Demi Lagos
One more thing - when you do get approved and have to certify for all those back weeks, make sure you report any income accurately if you had any sick pay or PTO payout after your layoff. EDD will cross-check with your employer and it can cause major headaches if the numbers don't match up.
0 coins
Saanvi Krishnaswami
•Good point! I did receive my final paycheck which included some unused PTO in late March. I'll make sure to report that correctly when certifying for that period. I definitely don't want any overpayment issues down the road.
0 coins
Vera Visnjic
If they deny your backdate request (which happens ALOT) immediately appeal it!! You only have 30 days to appeal a denial. And make sure to keep certifying for current weeks while waiting for backdating decision. They won't tell you this but you can lose current benefits if you miss certifications while dealing with backdating issues.
0 coins
Mason Lopez
•This is correct - always continue certifying for current weeks even while dealing with backdating issues or appeals. Your current eligibility is separate from the backdating decision. And yes, the appeal deadline is strictly enforced, so mark your calendar for 30 days from any denial notice.
0 coins