Because of its population, California deals with a large number of unemployment claims. When applying, you will be asked to contact them by telephone or online, not by going to an office in person. State unemployment offices provide phone support between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm weekdays and are closed on holidays.
Keep in mind that calling during those hours may not guarantee you’ll speak to someone if the lines are busy.
You can apply for unemployment online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at http://edd.ca.gov/Unemployment/. The web site is extensive and can answer many of your questions, but if you can’t find an answer, you can submit questions online and will receive a personalized response.
According to the California Employment Development Department, applying online is “The fastest and easiest way to file a claim.”
When sitting down to apply for unemployment, it will go more quickly if you have the following available:
• Name and social security number
• Mailing address and telephone number
• State driver’s license or ID card number
• The last date you worked
• Information on your last employer: name, address, phone number, and supervisor’s name
Allow ten days for processing your claim, but if you don’t hear anything after ten days, contact the Employment Development Department on the website or by phone.
While you’re waiting, you’ll receive an Unemployment Insurance Handbook, a written verification of the information you provided, and an estimated benefit amount.
Featured Links:
Find California Jobs California Unemployment Offices File for Unemployment Online
Images courtesy of MiiiSH, bgottsab, dannybirchall, puresolitude, Bytemarks