California residents dealing with job loss can find relief with unemployment insurance (UI) benefits. UI benefits cover basic expenses until residents can work again. Before filing for benefits, it’s essential to understand a few things. Here is everything you need to know about receiving UI benefits!
The Breakdown of the EDD
The Employment Development Department, EDD, is a government department that administers UI benefits. They also provide disability insurance and paid family leave programs. The EDD is one of the largest state departments and serves Californians daily. They offer programs like career counseling, job search services, and benefit distributions.
Understanding Unemployment Insurance Benefits
As mentioned, the EDD administers unemployment insurance benefits. Qualified recipients are people who lose their job through no fault of their own. One thing you need to know about receiving UI benefits is that it’s a partial wage replacement. The money helps recipients cover basic expenses until they find a job.
While receiving benefits, you must be available and able to work. Additionally, recipients must actively search for jobs. All recipients must be willing to accept suitable work. UI benefits are not long-term solutions for unemployed people. It’s temporary aid that helps unemployed residents.
How Benefits Help California Residents
California is the third most expensive state to live in. The cost of living is 39 percent higher than the national average. With high living expenses, no one can afford unemployment. Unfortunately, many residents experience job loss.
Dealing with unemployment is challenging. But it’s especially difficult while living in an expensive state. UI benefits help Californians pay living expenses until they find employment. Though it’s only a partial wage replacement, some income is better than no income.
Legal Trouble That May Occur
The EDD calculates the monetary benefits a recipient receives based on their circumstances. However, department errors can happen, and the EDD can accidentally overpay recipients.
This is an overpayment situation. During this occurrence, the department demands repayments and may issue penalties. Luckily, an attorney can help with EDD overpayment forgiveness by appealing your notice of overpayment.
In non-fraud situations, the EDD shouldn’t penalize recipients. An attorney will tell the EDD to reassess your case, and they’ll explain why the penalties aren’t valid.
Getting Back on Your Feet
Unemployment insurance is temporary, and finding a job is the ultimate goal. Excellent resources like CalJobs and America’s Job Center of California (AJCC) provide tools for job seekers. With access to training and education, residents can secure employment and look forward to their future.
