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My situation was a bit different, but when I was transitioning from unemployment to SSI last year, I had to report EVERYTHING. Like seriously, they wanted to know about a $50 birthday gift from my grandma. It's better to report and maybe have a reduced payment for a month than risk an overpayment situation later. Those SSI overpayment notices are a nightmare to deal with, trust me.
did anyone actually answer the original question?? YES you have to report it, but NO she doesn't necessarily have to decline the trip. If she reports it properly, they'll just reduce her SSI payment for that month and then it returns to normal the next month. She should call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 and ask for guidance BEFORE accepting the trip. btw this does relate to unemployment in a way because if you win prizes while on UI you also have to report them!
Based on your situation, this sounds like what we call a "phantom payment block" - where the system shows paid but the payment is held in processing. There are typically three causes: 1. A quarterly wage review flag (happens automatically every 3 months) 2. A random identity verification check 3. A system glitch requiring manual override Unfortunately, all three require speaking with an EDD representative who can see the backend of your claim. These issues won't be visible to you in UI Online. I recommend calling right at 8:00 AM when they open, or using a service to help you get through the phone lines. Once you reach a representative, specifically ask them to check for payment blocks or holds that might not be visible on your end.
UPDATE: I finally got through to an EDD rep! Had to use that Claimyr service someone mentioned here (worked exactly like the video showed). Turns out there was a "quarterly income review hold" on my account that triggered automatically. The rep removed it and released both payments - should have the money by tomorrow! For anyone facing similar issues, definitely try to speak with a live agent because there was absolutely NOTHING in my online account showing this problem.
You need to specifically request a determination interview regarding your eligibility. This is different from just calling their general line. When you get through to EDD (which is admittedly very difficult), tell them you want to schedule an eligibility determination interview to discuss your reduced hours and the child support income issue. During that interview, make sure to emphasize that your hours were involuntarily reduced and you're actively looking for full-time work. The interview gives you a chance to explain your situation to someone who can actually make decisions about your claim, not just a general customer service rep. Also, make sure you're properly certifying every two weeks, even while waiting for this to get resolved. If you ultimately win your appeal, they'll pay you retroactively for the weeks you certified correctly.
Just FYI my sister was in a similar situation last year and she ended up qualifying for CalFresh even though she didn't get unemployment. You might want to look into that too while you're fighting the EDD decision!
This is excellent advice. Many people don't realize that CalFresh (food assistance) has different eligibility requirements than unemployment. You can be denied for UI but still qualify for CalFresh, especially with a child in the household. You can apply online at GetCalFresh.org or through your county human services office.
UPDATE: Meeting with our credit union was successful! The manager helped us fill out some additional verification paperwork and said funds should be available by Wednesday. Our Assembly rep's office even called today to follow up. I'm honestly shocked at how quickly things moved once we got the right people involved!
This whole system is DESIGNED to be confusing. They WANT you to give up so they don't have to pay benefits. When I had issues last year my "dedicated phone appointment" was mysteriously cancelled TWICE. My theory is they intentionally make Money Network complicated because they know most people will just give up after weeks of trying. It's ALL about saving the state money. Glad you found someone to help but the whole system needs an overhaul.
Brian Downey
just got in!! try now everyone, seems to be working again
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Myles Regis
•OMG THANK YOU! Just certified successfully. What a relief! Hopefully everyone else can get through now too.
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Miranda Singer
For anyone still having issues, I found that using Edge browser worked when Chrome didn't. Something about the security certificates. Also double check you're going to the official https://edd.ca.gov site and not clicking on any links from emails that might be scams. Lot of those going around lately trying to steal unemployment info.
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