Laid off due to a work reduction, unable to get UI Benefits because I had earnings back east.
Q) I moved here last year from one of those less “progressive” states out east. I have a good job which pays well as a union electrician and, for the most part, do my share in holding myself down and contributing to society through my career. However, I was laid off recently due to a reduction in the needed work force. I didn’t fret because I’ve always lived by the example I was taught back east that I should never count on receiving more than 60% of my actual wages because work isn’t always guaranteed to be there but unemployment will keep me receiving 60% in the interim. That being said, when I attempted to set up an unemployment claim here in CA but was unable to do it online because I had earnings back east within the last 18 months. That wouldn’t be a problem if I could actually reach someone in person! I have called the toll free number given to me to file a claim a half dozen times and been hung up on due to call volume every time!
I tried showing up to physical office locations that I found on the internet and have been turned away with nothing but a new phone number to call and a new physical location. I have called those new numbers to only get a answering service promising to return my call within 24 hours yet received no call back since (a week ago). It has now been 21/2 weeks since I got laid off and I still am looking for answers on how I can go about filing a claim to receive what I have discovered is a top benefit of $450/wk . . . That isn’t even half of what I was making while working building the buildings that are a part of the infrastructure of this wonderfully “progressive” state! The only thing I see progressing here in CA is the immense void between the haves and the have-nots! Should anyone that works for this glorious state feel differently I would love to hear from you with some answers and helpful advice as to how I’m going to keep a roof over my head, food in my stomach, and a vehicle to drive until the state needs another building built to house more worthless govt entities.
A) According to CA Employment Development
“If you did not work in the state in the last 18 months your UI benefits will be 0”
You will need to apply for your unemployment benefits in the state you worked “back east” in the last 18 months. You can locate your prior state unemployment benefits website from the list below and apply for your benefits online even while in CA.