My question involves unemployment benefits for the state of: California
I called the local One-Stop Career Center, which has an EDD rep, and spoke to her today for guidance which I wanted to share here.
I had an initial claim that expired last week.
I had a temporary job last year that should qualify me for a new claim.
In filling out the online application and listing employers for the last 18 months, I didn't know how to list occasional freelance work.
She said only list employers that had an employer-employee relationship.
I said it might not jibe with my listing freelance income on last year's claim forms.
She said going forward to put a note on the continued claim forms (where you list any income received during that period) that it was 1099G or contract or freelance income.
She also said I should say "no" when asked if I had other employment not listed on the new application.
She further said to only list my new claim from a year ago, and say "yes" when asked if I had filed within the last year, since it was just a few days since its 12-month expiration date.
(I had refiled even last month online to reopen the existing claim after periods of excessive income, as you are directed to do, so it was unclear if that should be the date I used for my most recent claim.)
She said "we just want to know who you are" in terms of the questions and answers needed.
I wanted to share that even though reaching a representative at the toll-free number is virtually impossible, these centers have reps you can speak to (in person or by phone).
Also, I wanted to share that it is acceptable in good conscience to not put down freelance clients, according to her, when listing true employers (I did point out to her that it is earned income I report for tax purposes).
I hope this clarity helps others.
-- from "me"

