Officials may be scratching their heads over how to deal with California's bankrupt unemployment fund, but it is unemployed Californians who are bearing the burden of the cash-strapped agency. The rise in unemployment means many more people are calling in to the Employment Development Department and filing new claims, making it hard to contact or interact with an actual agent. Below are tips on how to make the process a little easier, based on my personal experience with the unemployment office.
1. File online
You can easily file an unemployment claim online. If your application is approved, you will receive a letter in the mail that outlines your benefits and what further steps you should take. If the application is rejected or there is a problem with the application, you will receive a letter that outlines what you should do next.
2. Fill out your claim form completely
When you receive a check from EDD, you also receive a form that requires you to list the jobs you applied for in the past two weeks, among other things. Be sure to fill out the form completely, check all the appropriate boxes, and sign the form. If you do not, your next check will likely be delayed.
3. Keep tabs on your applications
To make filling out the form easier, create a list of jobs that you applied for that you can reference later. Write down the name of the company, the address, and the name of the person you dealt with.
4. Keep the same address
Whenever possible, avoid changing your address, which can cause a delay in the mailing of your check. Never change your address to an out-of-state address.
5. Know when to call
With the thousands of Californians calling the unemployment office (800.300-5616) at one time, the phone lines are often busy. You are less likely to reach an operator at 10 a.m. on weekdays when phone lines first open. The phone lines are less busy from 12 to 1 p.m. and 3 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. If you get a busy tone or "all operators are busy" message, hang up and call again.
6. Use the automated system
You can use the automated system (866.333-4606) to find out if the department has received your form and if your next check is on the way. If you suspect something is wrong, wait seven to ten days after you've submitted your form before you call the main line. If you do not, the operator will likely tell you to wait and you will have to call back again.
7. Keep your appointments
If something goes awry and you receive a letter requiring you to speak with an EDD rep at an appointed time, clear your schedule and stay by the phone. If for any reason, the agent cannot contact you at the appointed time, it may cause a denial or delay of your future benefits. If the appointment is weeks away (as is sometimes the case), call the employment department and try to schedule an earlier appointment (This doesn't always work though).
These are a few suggestions based on personal experience. Please share your tips in the comments.
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