Unemployment Uncertainty

Never before have I been hit with more questions regarding unemployment insurance (UI) benefits than in the last two years. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for me to meet a job seeker that has been out of work for 1 or 2 years. The job market is very tight, and there are millions in line for fewer jobs. High unemployment is going to be with us for some time, and I suspect that questions surrounding unemployment insurance will be common occurrence for me.
Know where you stand. If you are receiving UI benefits, make every attempt to contact your Employment Development Department and find out how long your benefits will last. This will help you plan for the immediate future; it gives you time to plan your job search strategy and or take advantage of a much needed training program.
During periods of low unemployment in California, for example, an unemployment claim was for 52 weeks. A claimant would receive 26 weeks of unemployment benefits and then any available training extension. Because of the recession, most job seekers have taken advantage of federal extensions, which has prolonged their UI benefits. President Obama signed the last federal extension into law on July 22, 2010. As of right now, there is no new legislation on the table for extending UI benefits.
If you have questions about your unemployment benefits please contact EDD personally.  Don't rely on the experiences of other job seekers with EDD, especially on matters regarding your UI benefits. Your neighbors' case may differ from yours, even if they seem quite similar. If you are unable reach your EDD representative by phone, please visit the nearest One-Stop Center nearest you.