Eligibility for UI After SDI

[rosenthriller]

My question involves unemployment benefits for the state of: California
My question concerns the base period for determining benefits. I have not worked since 12/4/07 due to injury and have been receiving SDI benefits. My condition is due to resolve in March and I want to apply for UI until I am able to secure employment. Since I will not have worked for over a year, how will my base period be determined? Does one have to be employed within the 12-15 months prior to filing for UI? TIA

[Mr. Knowitall]

Read this.

A base period is a specific 12-month period. For example, if a claimant files a claim that begins in April, May or June the claim is calculated based on wages paid to the claimant between January 1 and December 31 of the prior year.

From what you say, you received no wages during your most recent base period and are thus not eligible for unemployment.

[rosenthriller]

Thank you for your reply and the link. I had actually read that prior to posting, but still couldn't get clear on the concept of the base period; i.e. so even though you've worked all your life, if you were unable to work during the base period, you're not eligible for benefits?

[Betty3]

Agree, it seems like you are not eligible since you have not worked since 12-07 (over a year) & won't even be able to work until 3-09. Sorry.

[rosenthriller]

Thanks to you both for the clarification. Since I wasn't able to reach EDD for the past 2 weeks, calling several times per day, it's a real service to have this forum for help.

[Betty3]

You're welcome. Sorry we didn't have the answer you wanted to hear.