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Unemployment Benefits
The support you need, when you need it most.
Losing your job or having your hours reduced can be difficult. Unemployment benefits are here to help support you and your family while you find a new job and develop your career.
Apply Now
Follow these steps to register and apply for unemployment, certify for benefits, and manage your claim.
Find out if you qualify for unemployment and learn about the benefits you could receive.
Note: If you believe that you are misclassified as an independent contractor, we encourage you to apply for benefits.
Other Benefit Programs
Not eligible for unemployment?
If you’re not eligible for unemployment, you may be eligible for:
Other State programs
You may qualify for other State programs to help cover food, housing, and healthcare expenses.
Before You Apply for Unemployment
Have this important information ready as you prepare to apply for unemployment.
Reopen a Claim
If you had an active claim and stopped certifying for benefits, you can reopen your unemployment claim if it was filed within the last 52 weeks and you have not exhausted your benefits.
Save Time. Apply Online.
Once you create an account, apply for unemployment with UI OnlineSM.
Receive Your Benefits
Certifying for unemployment benefits is a critical step to receive your benefit payments. You certify for benefits by providing us your eligibility every two weeks.
- Ways to Certify for Benefits
- Questions Asked to Certify Benefits
- Prepare for Phone Interview
- Report Work and Wages
- Register for CalJOBSSM
Certify with UI Online
Create an account with myEDD and access your UI Online account to certify for benefits.
Your Account
Manage your unemployment benefits at all stages of your claim. Make sure you're certifying your benefits and reporting accurately to receive the correct benefit amount.
Create a myEDD Account and Apply
With this account, you can apply for unemployment benefits, reopen an existing claim, and manage a claim.