California Unemployment Work Search Requirements

California residents can receive support while searching for work.

In the state of California, residents who want to apply for unemployment insurance benefits must meet certain requirements, including a work search requirement. Failure to meet the requirements could result in a reduction or loss of benefits. During the application process, all claimants are required to certify that they are able to meet the work search requirement.

Work Search

California residents who apply for unemployment insurance benefits must be physically able to work during the time period that benefits are received. All claimants are required to actively search for work. At any time, a representative from the State of California Employment Development Department (EDD) may request documentation proving that a claimant is searching for work. If the claimant is unable to provide proof, benefits may be denied or reduced.

Extenuating Circumstances

Residents who are physically unable to work cannot receive unemployment insurance benefits. Claimants who are sick or injured are advised to file a claim for the California State Disability Insurance program. Unemployed individuals who are caring for a sick relative or unable to work due to the birth of a child can apply for California's Paid Family Leave program. Unemployment benefits are only available to those who are able to search for employment and accept work offers.

Exemptions

A claimant enrolled in an approved job training program designed to increase his ability to gain employment is not required to search for employment. The California Training Benefits program allows people who meet the other requirements to receive unemployment insurance benefits to participate in job training without being penalized. In some instances, students attending a college or university can also receive exemption from the job search requirement.

Additional Requirements

Eligibility for unemployment benefits is also based on whether a claimant is out of work due to no fault of his own and his citizenship status. A claim form must be filed every two weeks to receive benefits. If the form reveals that the claimant did not meet the work search or other requirements, a telephone interview is scheduled. Failure to provide a valid reason for not meeting any or all of the requirements could result in a reduction or denial of benefits. A claimant can file an appeal within 20 days if he does not agree with the EDD's decision.

References

• State of California Employment Development Department: Eligibilty
• State of California Employment Development Department: California Training Benefits Program
• State of California Employment Development Department: Disability Insurance
• State of California Employment Development Department: Paid Family Leave
• State of California Employment Development Department: First Level Appeal

Resources

• State of California Employment Development Department: Eligible Training Provider List