Forced to Use Pto Time when Furloughed

[jdemartile]

My question involves labor and employment law for the state of: California

I was recently furloughed at work due to slow down. I was told and laid off the same day and I was told I must use all of my pto time prior to filling for unemployment benefits. My job so far is continuing to pay my health benefits so far. They have given me no return date, I'm mostly concerned with them forcing me to use all of my pto as when I do return I will have none, this has me scratching my head.. They are claiming it is California law that I must use my pto first. Does this sound right?

[cbg]

https://www.edd.ca.gov/Unemployment/...g_Benefits.htm

[budwad]

I think this link will more helpful in understanding the CARES ACT.

I would not be taking PTO. I would file for UI benefits as of the day you were furloughed. Your employer, as long as they don't layoff the employees, will be reimbursed for UB benefits because of furloughs. It would be contrary to the ACT if your employer made you take PTO first and then pay for the benefits.