Unemployment benefits in California

To get unemployment benefits in California, you can follow these steps:

1. Apply for unemployment insurance: File a claim for unemployment insurance online through the California Employment Development Department (EDD) website or by phone.
2. Meet eligibility requirements: To be eligible for unemployment benefits, you must have lost your job through no fault of your own and be actively seeking new employment.
3. Provide required information: During the application process, you will need to provide information such as your employment history, Social Security number, and other personal details.
4. Waiting period: There is a one-week waiting period in California before you can start receiving benefits.
5. Receive benefits: If your claim is approved, you will start receiving benefits, usually on a bi-weekly basis. The amount of benefits you receive will depend on your previous earnings.
6. Continue to certify for benefits: You will need to certify for benefits every two weeks to show that you are still eligible and actively seeking employment.
7. Report any income: If you earn any income while receiving unemployment benefits, you must report it to the EDD.

Note: The process for getting unemployment benefits in California may change due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so it’s best to check the EDD website for the most up-to-date information.