Feb 20, 2009 5:17 pm US/Pacific
Surviving Unemployment: Your Online Answer Guide
(CBS 5)
Lost your job? Need a new job? Here's the CBS 5 online guide to unemployment benefits in California and finding the path to your next career.
Q) How do I apply for unemployment benefits?
A) The fastest way to apply in California is to file for benefits online. You can also call the Employment Development Department (EDD) or go to one of the state's unemployment offices.
Q) What information will I need to file a claim?
A) Be prepared to provide:
- Your name and Social Security Number
- Your mailing and residence addresses (if different)
- Your last employer information, including name, address, and phone
- Information on all employers you worked for during the 18 months before submitting your claim, including name, period of employment, wages earned, and how you were paid.
- The date you last worked and why you are no longer working.
- Your gross earnings in the last week you worked.
- Your driver's licence or ID card number, if you have either.
- Your citizenship status, which may include your alien registration number.
Q) I'm not that skilled at using the internet. Are the forms difficult to complete?
A) Check out this online tutorial from the EDD before you get started.
Q) How are benefits determined?
A) The level of benefits you receive depends on how much you earned before you lost your job. This is the latest table for calculating benefits.
Q) How long does it take to start getting benefits?
A) It takes the EDD about ten days to process your claim. They will sned you documents indicating your benefit amount. Read all the material carefully to make sure the information is accurate.
Use the form provided to claim weekly benefits. The first week is a waiting period, so you will not receive benefits, but you must file the form to certify for benefits.
If there is a question about your eligibility, you'll receive a letter with instructions on scheduling a telephone interview. The EDD will let you know when they're going to call and what they're going to ask.
Q) Can I still qualify for benefits if I am doing a job training course?
A) You may qualify for California Training Benefits if you are taking an approved course. Check your course and get more information in the California Training Benefits and Training Extension Claims brochure.
Q) How can I use COBRA to keep the health insurance I had through my job?
A) COBRA allows you to continue health coverage at group rates. It is usually more expensive than what you were paying as an employee, but less expensive than getting a policy on your own. Federal COBRA covers groups of 20 or more employees. Cal-COBRA covers smaller groups. Check with the California Department of Managed Health Care to see if you qualify.
Q) Will I lose my benefits if I don't look for a job?
A) Possibly. You are required to look for work every week you collect benefits. You must also register with California's Job Search assistance website (CalJOBS) Keep a record of your job search in case the EDD asks for proof you are still eligible.
Q) Ok, I'm ready! Where do I start looking for a job?
A) Get ready to click:
Q) I'm thinking of changing careers. How can I choose a field where I know I'll be in demand?
A) You can get information on the labor market through the EDD. Their projections are generally for the next ten years.
Q) I'm over 50 and just lost my job. Is there any help specifically aimed at older workers?
A) Here are some tips for seniors looking for work. Also, AARP's National Employer Team specializes in finding jobs for older workers. Some of the companies that welcome that long-term experience include Home Depot, Target, AT&T, and Comcast. Other helpful sites include: RetirementJobs.com, Workforce50.com, and SeniorJobBank.org.
Q) I haven't written a resume in years. Any advice?
A) The best resume is one that quickly summarizes your work history and skills. Neatness counts and do not forget to proofread! Check out these writing tips, sample resumes, and cover letters. Also, here are some ideas for using key "buzzwords" that can set your resume apart.
Q) Hooray! I got a job interview! What can I do to prepare?
A) First things first: be on time, be dressed appropriately, and be prepared. The best way to get ready is to plan ahead for questions and practice your answers. The EDD's WorkSmart! section provides questions you're likely to get, and some you should ask. Unsure about selling yourself? Check with the hiring expert.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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