CA EDD COVID-19 Updated information

[Mike3531]

My sister is a ride share driver and I've been helping her find information regarding the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program. She applied for unemployment benefits about 3 weeks ago and got a notification stating she was ineligible. The rejection notice was expected as she is self-employed and the EDD has not begun accepting applications for the PUA program yet. My question is, since she already applied and EDD processed her original claim, will the EDD automatically enroll her in the PUA program? Or will she be required to fill out a new application specifically for the PUA program once it goes live?

[scraprsmith]

Originally Posted by Mike3531

My sister is a ride share driver and I've been helping her find information regarding the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program. She applied for unemployment benefits about 3 weeks ago and got a notification stating she was ineligible. The rejection notice was expected as she is self-employed and the EDD has not begun accepting applications for the PUA program yet. My question is, since she already applied and EDD processed her original claim, will the EDD automatically enroll her in the PUA program? Or will she be required to fill out a new application specifically for the PUA program once it goes live?

4/15 Update
GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES SUPPORT FOR UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE AND PANDEMIC UNEMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE APPLICATIONS
At the Governor’s direction, the Employment Development Department (EDD) will expand its call center hours to operate 7 days a week from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM beginning Monday, April 20, to assist individuals applying for unemployment insurance benefits. The EDD will also have a one-stop shop for individuals applying for both State unemployment insurance and the new federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program beginning April 28. The PUA will provide federally funded benefits distinct from UI program for certain individuals out of work or partially unemployed due to COVID-19, including the self-employed, certain employees who lack sufficient work history, independent contractors, and gig workers. PUA benefits to be issued within 24-48 hours. More information at Gov.CA.gov.

Originally I thought those who filed and were denied regular UI would be reviewed automatically for PUA.

When to File a Claim

We have a dedicated team working around the clock with state partners to build this new program as quickly as possible. The EDD will begin accepting online applications for this program on Tuesday, April 28. This page will be updated with instructions for filing a claim for PUA benefits when details become available.

If you are unsure if you are an independent contractor or an employee who could be eligible for benefits, file for regular Unemployment Insurance benefits and we will determine your eligibility.

After you have filed, refer to our step-by-step UI claims process. You’ll learn what to expect and the actions you need to take through the course of your claim for receiving benefit payments as long as you’re eligible.

https://www.edd.ca.gov/about_edd/cor...assistance.htm

[auntiesattic]

Originally Posted by Mike3531

My sister is a ride share driver and I've been helping her find information regarding the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program. She applied for unemployment benefits about 3 weeks ago and got a notification stating she was ineligible. The rejection notice was expected as she is self-employed and the EDD has not begun accepting applications for the PUA program yet. My question is, since she already applied and EDD processed her original claim, will the EDD automatically enroll her in the PUA program? Or will she be required to fill out a new application specifically for the PUA program once it goes live?

We won't know until they get the programming done for this group and the extension group. It would make sense, but considering California it will they do not make anything easy. I'm waiting for the extension link and it would make sense to just do it automatically with a few verification questions, but that would be way too easy for them.

[topaz47]

Originally Posted by PWSB62

Thank you for this information. Have they said anything about the initial claim material being delayed beyond their typical 10-day period? I filed on 3/17/2020 and the confirmation said I should have received something by 3/27/2020, but I'm still waiting for my initial package unfortunately.

Did you received your EDD card yet? I filed on 3/15, certified for a weekly amount, payments have been posted but no way to access funds since I have not yet received BoA debit card.

[bmonte]

Originally Posted by topaz47

Did you received your EDD card yet? I filed on 3/15, certified for a weekly amount, payments have been posted but no way to access funds since I have not yet received BoA debit card.

You have to wait. Or contact BoA and ask about the status.
It took weeks for me to get my card back in September with no virus.