Español

Job Seekers: Returning to Work

Most people who get unemployment benefits are required to look for work to be eligible for benefits. At the EDD, we can help you find suitable work and meet the work search requirement.

Resources to Help You Return to Work

We provide free job-search assistance to help get you back to work.

CalJOBS

CalJOBS is a tool you can use to find and apply for jobs. With CalJOBS, you can:

  • Create different resumes for specific jobs.
  • Set up alerts for job openings and apply.
  • Find education and training programs, workshops, and job fairs.
  • See job-market trends and data to help with your job search.

Visit Labor Market Information for Job Seekers to find jobs that are in demand. Use the Occupational Guides and Occupation Profile to find job opportunities.

America's Job Center of California

America’s Job Center of California (AJCC) offices connect job seekers and employers. They offer:

  • Job search tips.
  • Career coaching.
  • Help with resumes and interview preparation.
  • Access to job fairs, training, and apprenticeships.

To find an AJCC in your area and make an appointment, visit America’s Job Center of California.

The Work Search Requirement

If you are required to look for work, we will mail you a notice explaining your specific work search requirements. The requirement to look for work starts when you get the notice.

Doing the activities below can help you answer Yes when asked, “Did you look for work?” when certifying for benefits every two weeks. Answering No will lead to more questions and possibly an eligibility interview to determine if you are eligible for benefits for that week. Visit Understanding the Certification Questions for more information.

Work Search Requirement for Regular Unemployment

If you are required to look for work, you must do one or more of the following activities to get benefits. We encourage you to document your efforts.

We will inform you of the specific requirements for your claim.

Prepare for your job search. This can include:

  • Creating a CalJOBS account and uploading your resume.
  • Using services from America’s Job Center of California.
  • Creating profiles on job-search websites.
  • Registering with your union hiring office and meeting their job placement rules.
  • Watching videos about job searching, like how to write a cover letter or improve your interview skills.

Expand your network. This can include:

  • Letting friends, former employers, or community members know you’re looking for a job.
  • Connecting with people on job networking websites and searching for jobs.
  • Going to networking events related to suitable work in your field.

Apply for suitable jobs. This can include:

  • Applying for jobs with employers who are likely to have openings.
  • Applying or taking tests for civil service jobs.
  • Answering job ads or listings.

Take part in permissible training. This can include:

  • Taking courses that help you get a job but still allow you to work full-time. Some examples are federal and state-funded training, computer classes, English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, or certificate programs.

You do not have to search for work if:

  • You are in state-approved training, like the California Training Benefits program. Remember that you must contact us before the sixteenth week of your benefit payments to qualify for a training extension.
  • You are in an employer’s Work Sharing program.
  • You have a job offer for work that will begin soon.
  • You are on a temporary layoff and will go back to work within 30 days.
  • You have a specialized skill with few job opportunities in your area.
  • A trade dispute has greatly decreased job opportunities in your area.
  • Your industry had a seasonal shutdown, and there is little chance of finding other work.

We will decide if you qualify for an exemption based on the information you provide when you certify for benefits each week.

Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment Appointment (RESEA)

You may get a letter about a RESEA appointment. This appointment is designed to help you get back to work.

The RESEA program helps you meet unemployment eligibility requirements and gives you access to America’s Job Center of California. If you are chosen for the program, you must attend the appointment and complete the program’s services. Missing the appointment may affect your benefits.

Additional Resources