Types of Unemployment Claims
The Unemployment Insurance program helps you when you lose your job through no fault of your own. It provides temporary payments if you meet the program's eligibility requirements.
Visit Filing an Unemployment Claim for more information on how to file online, by phone, or by mail or fax.
Below are the different types of unemployment claims that can be filed:
Unemployment Insurance Benefits
These claims are based on wages you earned from employers covered by the California Unemployment Insurance Code (CUIC). Payments come from the state’s Unemployment Insurance fund and are based on California wages paid in specific quarters.
Work Sharing
These claims are considered an alternative to layoffs. They provide benefits to workers whose hours and pay have been cut. You can keep your job and get some financial help.
Partial Claims
These claims allow employers to keep trained staff during slow business periods.
- Employees are then available for full-time work as business improves.
- Employers may use the partial program if employees are temporarily working reduced hours or have been laid off for no more than two consecutive weeks.
- Employees who are laid off due to lack of work for more than two consecutive weeks must claim benefits in the usual manner and meet regular Unemployment Insurance requirements.
Training Extensions
Training extensions provide extra benefits for eligible California Training Benefits (CTB) claimants. The benefits go beyond a regular unemployment claim. If you need new job skills, this program offers benefits while you attend approved training. It helps you gain skills to find a new job.
Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees
Former or partially unemployed federal civilian employees may qualify for unemployment compensation. If you worked for the US Postal Service, the IRS, or in another civilian job for the federal government, you may be eligible. The federal government funds these claims, which are subject to regular state eligibility requirements.
Unemployment Compensation for Military Veterans
Veterans who recently left the military can receive benefits. The federal government funds these claims, which are subject to regular state eligibility requirements.
Joint Claims
Joint claims are when people have earnings from California employers and federal jobs within their base period. This includes earnings from military jobs. Joint claims combine California wages and federal earnings into one claim.
Interstate
Interstate claims are for people who worked in another state but now live in California. For example, if you were unemployed in New York and recently moved to California, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits.
Combined Wage
These claims are based on wages you earned in two or more states. They bring together your earnings when you’ve worked in at least two different states.
Trade Readjustment Allowances
If you lost your job because your company left the United States or there were increased imports, this program might help you. It provides extra federal benefits to workers who are eligible for the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program under the Trade Act of 1974. You must be enrolled in or have completed an approved training course unless the training requirement is waived.
Disaster Unemployment Assistance
If you’re out of work because of a major natural disaster, this federal program can help. It provides financial support and job services.
School Employee Claims
These claims are for people who work in schools or provide services to schools. School employee claims have specific rules. For example, a school employee may not be eligible to receive benefits if all of the following occur:
- A claim is filed during a recess period.
- Only school wages are in the base period of the claim.
- There is an offer to return to work for a school employer when the recess period ends.
We know that losing a job or having your hours cut can be stressful. The Unemployment Insurance program is here to support you while you get back on your feet. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
