Thanks to the EDD, I am slowly losing my mind
Haunted by phones
Ahh, my first week of unemployment. Pure (ignorant) bliss. Still delighted to discover I was eligible for free money from the government, I boasted about filing for unemployment insurance benefits. I reveled in its simplicity. I daydreamed about receiving my checks in the mail. Well, I’m sad to report that those daydreams have now turned into one un-ending bureaucratic nightmare. Blog therapy may not be enough to cure the spiral of madness I now find myself in.
It all started out so innocently, so…effortlessly. I opened my claim online in less than an hour. Within days, I received my first worksheet (in case you are lucky enough to still have a job, this is a form you have to fill out every two weeks before getting your check). I happily ticked the boxes and sent it back.
But shortly afterwards, the cracks began to show. I got a letter saying my worksheet was “incomplete or incorrect”. I was sent a replacement form and asked to fill it out. I did so, under John’s wise, watchful eye (mind you, he had already received his first check at this point, so I trusted his judgment). He identified what he thought was the problem. Phew, I thought. Glad I got that one sorted out.
But within a week of sending in my replacement form, I received a two-line letter from the EDD saying my second form had also been “incomplete or incorrect” – still no hint as to the nature of my error. I was instructed to call their 1-800 number “immediately”. I had missed my opportunity to fill out any new worksheets. My future livelihood now depended on the efficacy of a toll free government service number. Things were not looking good.
Bear in mind I have now been unemployed for over two months, and have yet to receive my first check. My measly severance cannot carry me through. Funds are dwindling. Mom and dad are on speed dial. And too many San Francisco establishments are cash only.
Now, I understand that the unemployment offices are overloaded with patrons at this time. I don’t expect to be able to get through to someone on my first, second or third try. I’m a reasonably intelligent person, familiar with the notion of a bottleneck. So after calling the toll free number repeatedly, to no avail, I decided to attempt an in-person visit. I googled my nearest “unemployment office”. Nothing like a good old-fashioned face-to-face meeting to straighten out a silly misunderstanding!
Where is this fantasy "unemployment office"?
I had imagined long lines of disgruntled layoffees, people taking numbers, angry mobs, apathetic and/or defensive civil servants – SIGNS OF LIFE.
Instead, I found a shy receptionist (bless her heart), a couple overzealous security guards and room full of phones. There were a few desperate looking jobseekers sprinkled throughout this multi-purpose government office, but for the most part, it was empty. The receptionist informed me that there was no one I could speak to face-to-face about my issue. That this particular office did not house any unemployment insurance representatives or advisers – I am told there are no such offices in the city of San Francisco. This was simply a job center. They could, however, offer me my pick of telephones designated for calling the 1-800 number. I started laughing maniacally. Are you friggin KIDDING ME? A room full of phones? Believe it or not, I have a phone at home. Two in fact! Why would I drive to this office, pay for parking, and sign in to use a public (read: bacteria infested) telephone? I can do this just as well from my couch, while I watch Tyra and eat a gallon of ice cream in my onesie. No antiseptic necessary.
But being the curious person that I am, I decided to check out this telephone facility. After passing through two security guards and being forced to throw away my coffee (NO COFFEE NEAR THE PHONES), I was given the low down on efficient phone usage. It went something like this:
Officer: “Push English and it dials the number. If it says ‘thank you’, hang up and try again. You have not gotten through. If it says ‘welcome’, you have gotten through. Dial 12117 to quickly navigate through the menu and you might just speak to someone.”
Me: (not sure whether to laugh or cry) “I see. And what are my chances of success?”
Officer: (points to the pages of signatures on his clipboard) “Out of all these people who came in today, maybe 4 or 5 got through. They put in some serious time.”
Me: “Christ almighty. They don’t make it easy, do they.”
I begin to lose all hope. I try really hard not to take it out on this nice man, who, of course, is just doing his job.
Me: “But why come in here and call when I can call from home? I don’t understand this set-up – a room full of phones to dial the same useless automated service I have been cursing for weeks?”
Officer: “Well, every once in a while, someone ACTUALLY gets through. Then everyone waits nearby and when that person is done with their call, they hand the phone over to someone else.”
I can’t believe what I’m hearing. What might this preposterous scene look like? Grown men hovering around the golden ticket winner, waiting desperately for their turn. The golden ticket winner, upon completion of his call, crying: “Wait! Don’t hang up! SS# 459-99-0787 wants to speak to you too… I’m passing you over now… Byeeee. Muah.”
At this point I have to leave the building before I scream.
Still reeling from the experience, I drove home, determined not to lose all hope. When I got there, I began researching offices outside of San Francisco, where I might get to speak to someone face-to-face. I found one in my hometown of Sunnvyale, just 40 minutes south of here. It looked promising. I was pleased by my own persistence as I dialed their number to confirm which services they offered. But my self satisfaction quickly turned to disappointment.
Lady on the phone: “Nope, sorry. You can’t file a claim here or discuss your claim with anyone. In fact there is no way to speak to a representative in person anywhere in California. You just have to keep trying the 1-800 number. But we DO have a room of telephones you can use.”
MORE PHONES???? At this point, I want to reach into the receiver and punch this lady in the mouth. No wonder losing one’s job and losing one’s mind are so closely intertwined. I am beginning to understand why people throw themselves in front of trains or go on killing sprees.
Always an optimist though (and with an unhealthy dose of persistence), I have now resigned myself to calling the number until I get through (from the comfort of my own couch, of course). It may take days, weeks, months, a lifetime, even – but eventually, I will get through, right? I see no other alternative. I understand the need for a mutli-pronged approach. I plan to write to my local congresswoman. I will also send a detailed letter to the EDD. If needs be, I will hire a lawyer.
But in the meantime, I spend my days dialing the 1-800 number over and over and over again. Every once in a while, I get the ever-so-promising “welcome” message. I navigate through the menu options with a glimmer of hope, and the automated message tells me I am being put through to a representative. I am elated – but only temporarily. In the end, it turns out to be a sick inside joke, orchestrated by the evil robots at the EDD. A subsequent message says “we’re sorry, we can’t take your call at this time. Goodbye” and the robot rudely hangs up on me. So what do I do? I pick up the phone and begin the process again.
I dial the same number repeatedly – each time, hoping for a different result. Isn’t this the very definition of insanity? Consider this my cry for help.
P.S. For musings not related to unemployment, check out my new blog, Lipstick & Lemonade
I am in the same boat. I call and call and no one can tell me anything about my claim? I also have been waiting/unemployed for 2+ months now and nothing!! When I call they can’t even tell me if I am going to get UI or not! As for severance pay.. its gone long gone. Rent is due the 1st and they had since the 25th to make a decision. However, each time I call the Rep says it can happen within a day, the second Rep said up to 7 days and this mornings Rep said up to 10 days!! – someone please remind me y i pay taxes??
I have received one check on the fed-ed extension, I sent my claim forms and my check should be cut today hopefully tomorrow. But now they want an interview, mind you it is not scheduled until the 22 of July….am I supposed to wait that long. But they are the same questions that I answered when i first applied for unemployment. Anyone know if I will get my checks until then????
you pay taxes for nothing. the state politicians do NOTHING. they give proclaimations, throw parades, vote themselves pay raise/pensions. You pay taxes for nothing. welcome to america.
I feel your pain. I got the same notice of an incomplete or incorrect form 2x and was told to call in by Sept. 17th. No luck in getting through by that date so I continued looking for work and started working in Oct and finally in Feb of this year I found time to re-open my claim via the website to try to collect past benefits from July till I started working in Oct. I had the phone interview, they denied me… I appealled, they denied and I appealled again and finally got a hearing date which was last week. The judge kept asking why it took me till Feb to re-open the claim and I said because it is impossible to get through to the EDD (when they are asking you to call in, should they give you a separate number?). And considering I started working full time and couldn’t really sit on the phone during business hours which happens to be the only time EDD is open as well. Anyways, I am saying my prayers that I am finally granted what is legally owed to me!
Yes here is another one to ad to the growing list, I was fired for doing something off the clock, No write up nothing, is was more a reason for my employer to replace a body for half the cost, next I file for U/I jump thru hoop after hoop finaly they say your disqualified for breaking a rule, I request a hearing, and now i’m stuck in a continuing loop of craziess, i have never recieved my day in court but its only been 4 months, Maybe i’m just being impatient. they due keep scheduling me for phone interviews but have stoped sending the piece of paper that asked if you have found work or are now employed ect, ect, maybe its time to move to mendecino county, and join the rest of the farmers making millions, good luck to you all….
I actually got through last week. They explained that they would have to take my number and someone would call back in 48 hours. They gave me a reference number and ended the call.
After 48 hours of not leaving the house and carrying the phone with me everywhere they never called back.
I’ve contacted my local goverment representitive, who in turn has to call me back…
Welcome to limbo. The State of California is so screwed up.
I feel your pain. I have been calling for about 5 weeks now. My wife and I were both laid off on the same day. I filled out the form for both of us and we recieved our first claim form. I filled out both of our claim forms the same way. She has just recieved here 3rd check I have recieved no response from edd not by mail, phone or email. Today I called and actually talked to someone for the first time. They told me they could not help me they could only help me file a claim online. They said I sould sumit a question online and that it would take 3 days to get back to me. It has been 4 weeks since I sent my first of over 100 emails. I hope no one in our state government wants me to vote for them again because it will not happen. They can force taxes on me and take my money but they better never ask me for help with anything because they will not recieve it. I might as well live in a 3rd world country becuase California is not much better.
Confuscatory taxes; instead of writing the corrupt govt. a check at the end of each month for all their outstanding services they provide; they forcibly take your money from your paycheck by confuscatory taxation.
Then you hire a CPA/EA to try to get a pittance of YOUR money back by April 15th. What a country. Poverty, homeless everywhere, massive home foreclosures, arizona/part of CA deserted, massive/increased taxes/”fees”, massive unemployment, and the masses are waiting in line for tickets to a pervert pop “star”.
Monica ~ you will need to call this number to find out about your check.. 866.333.4606 you need the amount of your weekly check and your date of birth…you will then select a PIN number.
a recording will inform you about the last check mailed.
I check was not cut for me. Sorry, maybe you will be luckier.
I thank you all for the useful information here. Now I give back. Another way to get through to the CA EDD office is by FAX. Very few know this exists: 866-215-9159. The last time I had a minor problem, they called me back in 15 mins using this method, believe it or not. Be sure to use a very readable cover sheet with your contact information so they can get back to you. Above all, be KIND, POLITE AND RESPECTFUL if you expect them to help you. From what I’ve seen, they’re overrun by the masses and can’t keep up. I wish CA would give them more support!
FINALLY! received my claim for for APRIL 19th to May 2nd pn July July 6th. July 10th…via the EDD Check info line my forst retro check has been cut. Let’s see where this goes. I hope all will be fine, but that is the glass half full part of me. Cross your fingers..otherwise, I am definately going to be on the street within the next two weeks.
I can totally relate to your frustration.
I got the same proclamation from the CA EDD about “improperly” filling out my claim form in November, 2008.
Since then, it’s been a nightmare.
It’s IMPOSSIBLE to get them on the phone and the jerks in the offices merely send me to ANOTHER office.
Meanwhile, I’ve lost work because I am dealing with the EDD unemployment offices!
Meanwhile (as well), I was told I had to file an appeal letter.
I did this, sent it registered return receipt mail (which the signed for), only to be told that they never received the letter!!!
They now owe me about $9,000, and haven’t paid me a dime.
I went to one office and the attendent (not even looking me in the eye) said, “Oh, you’re gonna have to go to Sacramento…”
I live in LA; that’s something of a schlep!
This is interminably frustrating.
We’ve all paid into the system, but we are in hardship and trying to get some $$$, it’s a nightmare!
their caljobs system is not working either, tried several times to search for jobs to no avail. the computer system is not working and has error messages. maybe they shut down this computer system because of the economic crisis in cal?
I moved to a larger city a few weeks ago because there are a ton more jobs in this area than out in the middle of nowhereland that I lived. Now EDD is possibly deciding that I am not eligible anymore because of the questionable Saturday during which I drove 50 miles to my new home while holding fiercely to my laptop and cell phone. It’s not enough that my life revolves around my inability to get a job despite having TOO many skills. Now it’s highly suspicious that I’m doing what I can to increase my chances of getting a job by moving closer to them. HOW DARE I. No unemployment checks for you! I’m surprised I’m not being assessed on whether I am able and available whilst I use the bathroom. EDD makes me feel like a child who is never good enough for their parents.
the state govt. was certainly able and available to pay almost $2,000,000 for a LA city party/tribute for a pervert pop “star” amidst a severe recession, severe unemployment, and a state in fiscal bankruptcy.
Although I still feel like crashing a 747 into the call center, wherever that is, I do feel a little better about hearing your story. I cannot beleive how ridiculous this entire EDD place is run. The places to get info, you get the, “we don’t have access” reply. Huh? WTF?
And the “phone banks”, yeah sure, the person working the desk gave me the old “dial 12117″ thing as well. She said you might have to dial it for 20 minutes, or so… I just laughed. I left.
UG!!!!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!
I followed your advice and punched in “12117″ right after the recording says “Welcome.” After about only half an hour of trying, I did get through and my problem was resolved. THANK YOU!
Wow!
The EDD scheduled a phone interview with me which took place on June 29 and the issue was resolved. I told the rep that they had stopped sending me claim forms in June. Although they did finally send me my check for May, they did not send the Continued Claim forms. Once again, I navigated through the EDD phone system and I finally got through to someone after trying most of the day. The rep did not have access to my records. Therefore, she could not tell me why the forms had not been sent. She took all my info and told me that someone would call me in five days. Since I did not want to risk missing the call, I asked if they could contact me by e-mail instead. She agreed. I am owed six weeks worth of checks. How are we expected to survive. I will be checking my e-mail with anticipation.
Since the cheating mayor states that LA is a “world class” city; the city will be paying for the $1,400,000 for police OT, etc… for the pervert pop “star” parade/motorcade. That is coming out of our taxes when the state is bankrupt, cannot adequately man call centers, checks being delayed, poor mail service, incompetence at all EDD levels, etc…however, magically they can come up with $1,400,000 for a motorcade/tribute. Wonder if one of their common citizens died, that they would throw a $1,400,000 party, complete with $49,000 in police lunches that WE all paid for. Where is the outrage, why the apathy? Are most just sheeple?
ACTION! Finally. Making a very long and confusing story short (not that all of you would not understand completely), but I happened to follow a Customer Reps advice regarding not knowing how much I have made from a job (film work) before my claim form is due. When I received the pay check I immediately emailed Unemployment explaining everything, about my under claiming the amount and why and that I following “their” advice and also put a note in my very next claim form to which I get an email about now waiting for a telephone interview! AND no checks until then! I wrote a couple emails explaining again, telling them the telephone interview date, almost a month away, was a hardship (I received the date in the mail) to which I finally got an email back simply stating “you still have to have interview”. Nice grammar! So, granted – on a Thurs. That Monday some nasty woman called, screamed at my roommate because I was not there, etc. I immediately came home and tried all day to get someone. I FINALLY reached someone and was told I had already been penalized. After another few emails and call attempts (hundreds) AND no checks in the mail, I just about gave up!!! I came back here and read through the various comments and a bright idea popped into my head! Well, thanks to all of you and my own rambling thoughts. I started to email as many government officials as I could letting them know how in the dark I am, that now my emails are not even getting returned, and begging for help. I sent to a couple councilmen (San Francisco), both our Senators, a couple of state senators, good ole Arnold, the Lt. Gov. and Jerry Brown (well, forget him…even though I got a stupid letter, it was nonsense, no help at all.) However, only 24 hours later I got a call form my State Senator’s office, Leland Yee – a great woman named Erin who wanted some more information so she could email them and then get back to me on some solution. That was 3 days ago and oddly enough I FINALLY got TWO emails from Unemployment (that I sent July 3rd – 12 days ago!) letting me know when my checks would begin again as well as another letting me know that I would be getting a date for my appeal soon. Now, Sen Yee’s office helped? Some coincidence. But I will find out soon. It’s easy…just look up all the websites and email any and all! Please do so as many of you who can.
Thanks Michael for the advice I will definatly take your advice and start right away!!
I can’t believe how many of us are experiencing the same frustrations, right here in USA! I am exhausted with this process and not getting answers, having a 1-800 # that is useless! I can’t believe the anxiety this system is causing. And to think…$6 Billion of our taxes are going to illegals walking into public offices for their unemployment(welfare) check. It’s been over two months, and still no benefits.
GDel:
John Illegal gets paid $15 in cash, under table, John Legal gets paid $30/hr with payroll taxes.
Illegal gets to keep all his money, Legal pays about 30% to taxes===so, they make ~same!
Illegal gets food stamps b/c of unreported income-undertable. Legal gets no food stamps b/c makes over $10000 after income taxes
Illegal gets to send kids to college for gratis, Legal gets to work part-time jobs in addition to FT to help pay kids tuition costs, less time with family, and sends all money to tuition. those PT jobs also are taxed b/c legally working
Illegal gets a $500/monthly rent subsidy, Legal does not get this, must pay for an overpriced apt or condo in CA
Illegal gets all public safety services gratis, Legal pays for these services, and gets same service as illegal
Illegal get free med/dental services, Legal pays massive monthly premiums/co-pays for his family for med/dent
the working man is somewhat a sucker. in this state, it is better to be illegal, than legally working for illegals’ benefits. this is NOT a “PC” issue etc… it is 2009 reality—the state has shut down, bankrupt. $6,000,000,000 being given to illegals’ “benefits.”
It is a republicratic issue; both imbecilic parties are to blame for this joke in California. the welfare system in california is not experiencing such massive problems as EDD is. why is this, is this because illegals are not able to tap EDD, b/c one must be legal, and be legal to work in USA? The reason why so many illegals flock to USA is b/c like geese they go where it’s warm and there’s free food.
If California smartened up and stopped giving illegals all these massive benefits, they would flock to another state, perhaps, NC, AZ, KY, whereever, they could strip the government of handouts and welfare benefits that SHOULD be for legal americans, who were taxed/filed fed/state taxes, worked legally (paid income taxes) and paid into the system and deserve to be helped by their government. again, this NOT a PC issue, it is 2009 reality in california, the state is bankrupt; services to legals is poor/incompetent, and the public services/programs are inundated with illegals trying to get something for nothing–they are felons and have no respect for our laws.
What is going on with the Continued Claim forms not being mailed. I have not received any since May. I contacted the EDD twice requesting that the Claim forms be sent. Both times I was given reference numbers by the rep who did “not have access to my records.” I was informed that I would be contacted within five days. Thusfar, no contact, no forms. “No forms, no checks” I have read about others who did not get claim forms in a timely manner and when they did finally get them and mailed them in, the EDD needed to interview them wanting to know why the forms were sent in late. This is not just a matter of the EDD being understaffed and overwhelmed it is either your garden variety bureaucratic incompetence or something much more ominous. Either way, we are being victimized by a system that we paid into in good faith. Suggestions would be most welcome.
Well, after four months of being out of work, I finally found a job up in Portland, OR. Yes, I have to move out of state, but I’ll go anywhere for a job right now. And it’s a great job! My question is how does the unemployment work now? I got a form today that I have to send on 7/26, and my job starts on 7/27. What should I write on it? Anybody been in this same situation before?
$1,400,000 for a pop “star” tribute paid for by a bankrupt city/state with out taxes including $49,000 in OT lunches for the police watching the tribute–where is the outrage. yet thousands wait as the EDD drags its’ feet, waiting for months for checks, waiting on hold, or cannot get through with phone system, or employees with thick accents that one cannot understand. but the state can come up with $1,400,000 to cover a pop “star” tribute. where is the outrage, the action by our elected “officials.”
Just got through. Here is the trick…when you get the automated message, hang up and try again (repeatedly) until you receive the correct message that will put you through to an attendant. For me, it happened on the third try. My attendant was very helpful and considerate.
Good luck, all!!!
Does anyone know if you fax your continued claim form? if so whats the number?
It’s crazy how we pay into this mess. I had a interview scheduled for july 22, they informed me on July 2nd via snail mail…I tried that whole time to call in, it was school related. Finally they called me on the 22nd and spoke to a very nice lady. She just asked if I had started school, I said no cause it would conflict with getting work. She said okay and your checks are in the mail. Not even 4 minutes on the phone. Amazing how they made me wait that long for 4 minutes, now they owe me $2000. I have an interview lined up for Monday so hopefully I don’t have to deal with this mess anymore.
I tried call the toll number and can’t get through; they have me scheduled for another interview, have not received any checks since may, i am already late on rent and car– are there any programs for california citizens during these very tough times? thanks,
hey monica, I got the same letter. How did it go? what was the process? I am so nervous about not getting a check.
Tania Khadder thanks so much for your blog it was awesome -Misery loves company. The second letter nearly put me over the edge. I finally after about 5 solid hours of calling on different days, different times I got through to Joan who was very nice and listen to my problem but she told me that Rose was out to lunch and that I would have to call back -No way Joan – I said I have all day, I am unemployed. I can sit with the phone in one hand and the channel changer in the other for the next 3 hours if that was ok – It was?, and about 20 minutes later I was talking to Rose and she told me that I left the training question blank on the 2nd week – I do get points for filling in “no training” the first week but no $$$$. I now need to call the Adjustment Department and see if that could be changed. Whew now I knew where I stood – I called and was asked the big question -Did I receive training in the second week – I said No – There was a long pause and then I was inform that the UI would be sent. Received in 3 days from the last call !!! The bottom line I need training to fill out the forms!!!
I too feel your pain!! However, I got thru three times right away!! I navigated thru the phone service and I studied which “welcome” prompt would lead me to a real human being. After going on line and filing my claim, I was given notice that I would be recieving a phone interview two weeks from the notice. By this time yes, money was tight and it had now been about 5 or 6 weeks since I had recieved any money ( my last pay check from my former employer) and when I was interviewed I did indeed share this pathetice info with the agent. Her responce to me was incredibly reassuring, sympathetic, and quite caring!! The intervew only lasted about 2 minutes – they simply wanted to confirm that I did not cause loosing my job – that I simply didn’t give up.
I then asked her what the next step was and she explained that she needed to contact my employer to verify that our stories matched which they indeed did! I asked her how long after she gathers this info I would recieve a check and she replied that it would take another 10 days after this info was verified and entered. I almost cried-literally!!!! And I do believe that she felt my pain – onece again she told me to hang in their and wait for the “Decision” letter in the mail. Once again I explained my lack of funds and to add to that the having to wait another 10 days for the decision!! We said our goodbys. 3 minutes later I recieve a call and with a shakey voice I answer the phone and she says “Hi it’s me again from EDD and I just wanted to let you have some peace of mind and console you and tell you that you have been approved and that I will submit this immediately and you will recieve a CHECK within 7-10 days!!!!!!!!!!!!! (NOT JUST THE NOTICE ANYMORE) I got a check in four days!!! And I made a mistake on my first check/claim form and they called ME to confirm what my answer had been which was incorrect and they told me they would simply correct it and send me the next check!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I think heavan sent me an EDD Angle
They put me through hoops for some reason.
I got some strange ambiguous letter that told me something was wrong, with out stating what it was. Luckily (I didn’t know how lucky I was) I got through to someone on the phone to clear up the ambiguity and that part went fine.
Then for two or three months I actually got checks.
Then one day they stopped and I got some notice about an interview. An interview for a month later WTF?!
It stated no reason why. After calling many times (maybe 20 calls to get in) I find there was a problem with my former employer’s address (since they had moved).
I provided the correct address and was told they would give it to the person that is supposed to interview me.
Nothing happened, nothing in the mail, etc. Now today has finally come my interview day. It’s an hour past and no one has called!
Now it is starting to make sense, I see news articles saying there is a backlog of 82,500 appeal cases.
I see in some times in the last six years ago since I had UI they eliminated all the offices. There used to be a county office where you could go to and talk to someone.
But mine is not even an appeal.
I wanted a F&%^ing month for this phone interview and no one calls.
They should have just kept sending the checks for such a little problem, and then made a decision not to send or otherwise AFTER the interview (that never happened).
This is such BS, mishandling, and negligence by the state.
Also more BS, this is all Federally funded, so there is little reason for this!
There should be more people on the “job” to handle the calls and issues, not less!
I will sue the state personally if not only for the back paychecks, but all the emotional distress, and gross negligence.
And, or, a make a class action lawsuit to do so.
Or organize, lets all of us 82,500+ waiting for an appeal and the probably 500,000+ wait for an interview, or otherwise can’t get through to the phone and storm the state Capital.
I live in FL and it is just as bad here. Our state does not care about the unemployed, they only care about the people who chose to live on welfare. I was on unemployment in July 2008. Like an idiot, I took a minimum wage job in March. (There are no jobs where I live). In June, they downsized and laid a bunch of us off. Of course I have no money saved being I was working a job that paid less than unemployment. (Yes, stupid on my part, I let a friend talk me into it).
I have been waiting just to receive a letter from unemployment since then. It has been almost 7 weeks and I am getting ready to lose my home, everything inside of it, and my daughter. All because the state of FL doesn’t have enough employees.
Our country is really screwed up. They treat the unemployed like total garbage. If I had more kids when I was younger and chose to live on welfare, I would be fine right now. Yeah, there is something wrong with our country..
sorry to hear about Cathy. The usa does not care about its own; only those that are chronically on welfare, and HB-1 visa holders. The govt. does however, have the money for a pervert pop star parade at a taxpayer cost of $1,400,000. They do have money for all the redundancy and bastions of police, fire, and state office govt. bureaucrats that do nothing and collect handsome wages, OT, pensions, excellent health care, paid time off, vacations, other benies. Nothing will change until people stop people sheeple and demand accoutability and treat get businessmen running the show-NOT professors, lawyers, naive polly annas, and slick tongued politicians that spew a lot of hot air without real action for real americans.
In Oregon, no person who is employed pays any part of unemployment insurance taxes. They are completely paid by the employer. And, we have 3 UI offices to take our calls. The typical wait is 30 minutes.
you all have to file a complaint with the agency in charge in sacramento and threaten to file a complaint with the federal agency in charge. I wrote a letter to the director last time and told them that it was unreasonable to wait for ID check for two months while they performed their ID check and that a judge would side with me and that I would file a complaint with the federal government. Well, they instantly released my checks.
You have to set your alarm to call by axeactly 8 (or is it 9?) AM. I did this and got through on the first try -finally-after losing 8 weeks of daily attempts. They tell you there are better days to call than others but truly, no matter the day or time (unless apparently, they have just sat down to their chair) you won’t get through. I wonder, who are these lucky people who are actually on the phone with these reps when I call?!
So anyway, I was able to finally get thru but the rep took my info and said to expect a call within the next couple days. This was Friday, they called Monday and Tuesday from, of course, an “UNAVAILABLE” number. My phone for some reason doesn’t fully ring for Unavailable callers and so now a week has gone by, and after all that waiting I still cannot be put in contact with someone. Do I really want to atart from scratch at this point? It’s been a nightmare… and this ALL STARTING WITH THE SAME EXACT THING AS NOTED IN THE BLOG! a notice mailed to me, after filling out a claim the same exact way I did the others, stating “Incorrect or Incomplete data. Please fill out again and return – - did so and – - another notice mailed with same directions… Can’t they just F***** tell you what the F*** was Incomplete or Incorrect and give you another form so as not to waste all this precious time with the run around and missed much-needed checks! There are no F***** jobs out there! I have searched relentlessly for over a YEAR! From corporate to temp. to fricken Petshops! The stress is eating me alive and my once-beautiful relationship is in shambles because of it! I NEED MONEY!!!! AAAHHHHHH!
*(sorry, thanks for the opp. to vent)
To those asking about fax numbers or assistance programs, you can go the the EDD website (www.edd.ca.gov) . I don’t know about sending claim info. via fax but they have a link for job assistance and job listings.
I tried the 1-2-1-1-7 suggestion, got thru immediately and nearly peed my pants. Talked to an agent, who then transfered me to “an adjuster”, who then disconnected me. Busy signal.
The flying pig just got shot down. Should have known it was too good to be true.
Un-F’in-Believable.
Agreed, there are NO jobs out there, looking well over a year, have a doctorate too. They all say either not hiring or call back 6 months or so, all to no avail. This state and country is a joke. Where are all the jobs; are they giving out jobs to H-1B visa holders or to Americans?
Sheila, can you tell us what is the ‘correct message’ that will get us through to an attendant, and also WHEN to hang up and try again? There are two automated messages- one to choose your language, then the main one. thanks!!
from Sheila, above:
“Here is the trick…when you get the automated message, hang up and try again (repeatedly) until you receive the correct message that will put you through to an attendant.”
I applied for UI benefits on July 24, 2009. I got approved and got all my documents in about a week, including my first claim form. However, my phone interview was scheduled on 8-25-09. The date to mail my first claim is on 8-9-09. I was like WTF? Why send me a claim form before the interview? Is there ANY chance I would still get a check by the 14th/15th? I also have tried to contact EDD but of course, even if you call a freakin’ minute before they open they are still “experiencing high call volume”. Then they don’t know how to answer your question anyway.
Wow! This is absolutely amazing. I have been receiving Unemployment benefits for the past year, had exhausted the first Extension, and had received the 1st installment of the 2nd Extension when I received an email stating that EDD needed to determine my eligibility. Mind you, I’ve already gone through the Eligibility process and was determined eligible by the Court of Appeals. I haven’t received a check since July 22, 2009. The claim form attached to the check said to mail by July 23, 2009, this was completed. What has now deemed me ineligible? I haven’t a clue. And furthermore, I have not received another claim form in the meantime, which is strange because that is one of EDD’s stipulations, that you send the claim form even if you are awaiting a decision so that in the event you win the checks you haven’t received will be sent immediately.
Also, according to EDD’s FAQS I am currently eligible and should have to do nothing but submit claim form to receive 2nd extension even if the Regular claim has expired.
At one point I had sent a claim form a day late, but had informed EDD via email. Again, according to EDD FAQS that would not have hindered my eligibility for 2nd extension benefits either, but to inform them by email, this was done. However, today I received another email from EDD saying the same thing instead of answering my questions, and that is “Your phone interview to determine Eligibility has been scheduled for August 25th! More than a month after receiving last check and mailing claim form. Also, the letter they mailed to me was dated the same day I received it and included an old number for which I cannot be reached, with a warning that says, “If EDD cannot reach the day of the interview, we will decide your eligibility based on information received.” What does that mean? When I emailed them I included a new number where I can be reached, but they totally disregarded it! I am now writing a letter and physically mailing it to their office (P.O. Box), in hope that they will receive it and update my records.
This entire situation is wrong and designed for failure, failure to help Americans who are in desperate need. People are actually dying from stress related issues regarding our economy. And, I am on the verge of losing my life insurance policy as a result of not paying. My insurance guy has stated that he’s heard so many horror stories regarding Edd not helping people, he sympathizes but its out of his hand. As a result, I have contacted Senators Diane Feinstein, and Barbara Boxer along with Congressman Miller. Something has to be done swiftly. So, please do not hesitate to get the word out to our elected officials, even though I am sure they are aware of what’s going on.
Wanted to share my experience – might help someone. I did not get my check on 08/01 – was really disappointed. As many of you, I made numerous calls just to listen to their message. I sent them an email the same day and got a reply in 2 days with explanation why my check wasn’t sent (I made a mistake on my form and stating that I wasn’t looking for a job -typo). I got a letter about appointment. I was shocked and devastated because they scheduled my appointment on 0/29 – which means I would n’t get my following checks (3 all together). I read this blog yesterday and discovered this trick regarding pushing 12117 immediately after Welcome….i woke up at 8:30 and started dial and redial them for 10 minutes maybe. To my HUGE surprise it worked!!!! I got a human being on the other end – a very nice one. She fixed my problem!!! I answered questions she asked (the same ones from the form) and se cancelled my appointment and said I will get my check in a couple of days. Thank you guys for sharing your info – helped me!!
OMG…. I am in the same sinking boat… my last date of employment was June 26th as soon as I got home from being laid off for the 3rd time in one year I got home and filed my claim on line. Within a couple of days I got my letters from EDD with a claim form and a pamphlet and my phone interview wich was fr July 28th!!!! almost a month later!!!!! Luckily my last check would help me pay for my rent for the month of July. I had my interview on the 28th of July today is now the 6 of August and I need my $$. I am a single mom with 2 girls I have not recieved my check in the mail or a denial letter. I tried calling to try to talk to someone and after trying for the whole morning not only did my ear hurt but I never got through!! I am at my witts ends already. I have to pay my rent and hey I have only 35 bucks in my wallet. God forbid if my kids ask for something like food!!!!!! with school right around the corner my girls need clothes and school supplies. How do you tell your kids I cant buy you an ice cream because I simply dont have the $$…. Its summer time its what kids want… Soory I went on and on.. But I needed to vent……
I have been waiting since May to receive a response from them, i tried all the tricks, finally on the 87th call to them, (yes 87 times in one day) the government employee did not have access to my files !?!?!….so I wait, my landlord stuck an eviction notice on my door, and there is a certified mail thing in my mail box, i have a doctorate there are NO jobs. Where is the government help, where is Obama–drinking beer with that verbally abusive “professor”, where is Swarznegger–vying for his next movie?, where is Pelossi too busy flying on our tax money luxury jets or first class—this is total bullsh-t. You have parents laid off, people all laid off, and the government writes happy stories about BS recession “ending”–?!?! are they joking…the recession has merely just begun with over 15,000,000 people unemployed and looking for jobs–many that do NOT exist. Companies are increasing hour, and forcing more work onto the remaing slaves that have not yet been laid off. The government skews stats, propaganda stories to sell to the masses and TV ”news” programs that are obscessing over “celebrities”—enough is enough–where is the help for the average person?
Wow… so I tried that trick that I read from here… You know the one that says to punch in 121177 when the welcome message comes on. Well on the first attemp it worked!!! to my amazement… and the hope was coming back…. I got to a message that said that my wait time would be approx 4 minutes well when the agent finally picked up guess what?yup, you guessed it my call was disconnected!So, I try again, and amazingly it worked again. I was on hold for only 3 minutes this time around. When I finally spoke to the rep well there was no updated information on my files. I have to continue to wait for the entire 10 business days. In the meantime what do I do???? Tell my landlord what??? not to 3 day notice me becaue 10 business days have not been up??? What do I tell my kids????? I am so tired of this waiting game!!!And I see no end in sight. Where is the help from the people that we elecetd to help us???? Yeah they painted a pretty picture for us when we voted and now WTF is going on? they take so much money from our checks when we are working that now that we are out of word and are entitled to OUR money back we have to wait more than a stinking month!!!!!Well I continue to wait and my kids continue to wait.
So I received a “Notice of Determination of Invalid Claim, Section 1277″ dated July 17, 2009 and apparently this was sent as I’ve been unemployed for one year and according to this letter, I didn’t meet the eligibility requirements of this section, so I do not qualify for additional benefits.
Clearly understandable under the normal unemployment benefits schedule, but keep in mind that due to the system not be modified to include the additional extensions, many will be eligible to receive benefits for well over 52 weeks.
It seems that according to Section 1277, you must have done the following to qualify for unemployment benefits:
- earn at least $1,300.00 as an employee in one quarter during the prior year
- earn at least $900.00 in the quarter of you highest earning druing the prior year
- earn 1.25 times you high quarter earning during the prior year
Of course I didn’t meet the above items as I was on unemployment during the past year. Surprisingly enough, this notice made it very clear (highlighted) that “THIS DETERMINATION DOES NOT AFFECT YOUR CLAIM FOR EXTENDED BENEFITS.”
Silly of me to think that there would be no problems… So I send out my forms as I have been and all of a sudden the checks stop and it so happens that I get a letter from EDD claiming that I have a telephone interview for August 29, 2009.
After a week trying to get through I finally speak with an agent and due to them not being able to access my claim they basically said nothing can be done until the telephone interview, OMG!
I’m going to still keep on trying to speak with someone starting on Monday… I know many of us are going to be in the similar situation so I’ll keep you updated as I try to resolve this issue.
Dan
Anyone else in this situation? Tips would be greatly appreciated and good luck to all!