Addressing unemployment remains a formidable challenge for taxpayers, with millions of individuals currently jobless and relying on benefits for support during their job search.
In an effort to curb the prevalence of scams that have plagued the system in recent years, the Employment Development Department (EDD) is introducing a new contractor for unemployment and disability payments.
California Unemployment Benefits Schedule
As reported by CalMatters, the EDD is set to notify approximately 850,000 beneficiaries of the transition to Money Network as the new payment provider.
Starting in mid-January, recipients of unemployment, disability, and paid leave benefits from the EDD will receive new Money Network debit cards by mail. Official payments on these cards are scheduled to commence on February 15.
Individuals still in possession of Bank of America EDD debit cards have until April 15 to utilize the funds.
The newly issued EDD cards will incorporate security chips and tap-to-pay features commonly found in consumer credit cards.
Eligibility And Duration
Weekly benefit amount (WBA) falls within the range of $40 to $450. For an approximate calculation of your potential benefits, utilize the unemployment benefit calculator.
It is mandatory to undergo a one-week unpaid waiting period on your claim before qualifying for benefits.
To qualify for unemployment benefits, you must fulfill all criteria both during the application process and when certifying for benefits. These prerequisites encompass:
- Having earned sufficient wages throughout the base period.
- Being entirely or partially unemployed.
- Experiencing unemployment through no fault of your own.
- Possessing the physical capability to engage in work.
- Maintaining availability for employment.
- Demonstrating readiness and willingness to accept work promptly.
The program, initiated in 2021 with a budget of $5.2 billion, aimed to assist Californians in alleviating rental debt accrued amid the pandemic.
Although the program ceased accepting new applications in 2022, over 70,000 households still await the processing of their pending applications.
Regrettably, the available funding is only sufficient to accommodate slightly more than 14,000 individuals.
Consequently, the remaining 80% of the total applicant pool will be unable to benefit from the program.