File for Unemployment – Overview
Unemployment Insurance
If you are out of work or have had your hours reduced, you may be eligible to receive unemployment benefits.
Take the Necessary Steps
Learn how to qualify for unemployment benefits. Then, follow these steps to register and apply for unemployment, certify your benefits, and manage your claim.
Know Your Options
Find out if you qualify for unemployment and learn about the compensation and benefits you could receive. If you’re not sure where to start, review the Unemployment Benefit Programs Flowchart (PDF).
- Types of Claims
- Eligibility Requirements
- Benefits Calculator
- California Training Benefits
- Benefit Programs Online
Unemployment During COVID-19
The EDD provides a variety of support services to people who have lost their jobs, had their hours reduced, or had their businesses affected due to the impacts of COVID-19 in California. Learn More
Other Benefit Programs
CalFresh
CalFresh provides monthly food assistance to people and families with low income, including those who lost their job because of the pandemic. Visit GetCalFresh.org to apply online in 10 minutes. You will be interviewed by your county. If approved, you can get up to $204 a month in food benefits.
If you’re not eligible for unemployment, you may be eligible for Disability Insurance, Paid Family Leave, or Nonindustrial Disability Insurance.
Before You File for Unemployment
Have this important information ready as you prepare to file for unemployment.
- Register and Create an Account
- Information You Need to File a Claim
- File a Claim
- What to Expect After You File a Claim
Reopen a Claim
If you had an active claim and stopped certifying for continued benefits, you can reopen an unemployment insurance claim if it was filed within the last 52 weeks and you have not exhausted your benefits.
Save Time. Apply Online.
Once you register and create an account, file for unemployment online with UI OnlineSM.
Receive Your Benefits
Certifying for unemployment insurance 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
Register and create an account with Benefit Programs Online. You can access your UI Online account to certify for benefits.
Your Account
Manage your unemployment insurance at all stages of your claim. Understand your role and responsibilities in making sure that certifying your benefits is reported accurately, and that you receive the correct amount.
Last Revised: 12/10/2020
Creating an account is an important step as soon as you qualify for unemployment benefits.
With this account, you can apply for Unemployment Insurance or Pandemic Unemployment Assistance benefits, reopen an existing claim, and manage a claim.
Understand what benefits are available, how to apply, and what to expect after applying.
Can’t find what you are looking for? View these resources for more information.