Working with the California Employment Development Department

Given the nature of the acting profession, there may be those “in between times” when you may need to apply for unemployment benefits with the California Employment Development Department (EDD). Here are a few helpful hints when applying:

Be sure to keep good records of all original employment and residual checks received. The EDD strongly recommends that you save the mailing envelope with the postmark for proof of date of receipt for all payments and actually attach it to a copy of the check. You may need to declare this exact date and provide substantiating documentation for your claim.

Federal and State laws mandate a “work test” for all applicants who apply for unemployment benefits. Thus, California claimants must register online at CAL-JOBS or be subject to attend a job search assistance appointment. While it is recognized that it is highly unlikely that SAG member applicants will get acting jobs through these programs, it is important to follow all directions and follow required process in order to qualify for EDD benefits.

When registering online for CAL JOBS, although they request a mailing address, this need not be a home address and can be a manager, agent or another address. Additionally, if you chose to give your personal home address, all registrants can opt to have this information suppressed so it is not visible to potential employers who use the system when seeking employees. All personal information is protected. In fact, registrants do not even have to give a phone number. It is optional.
Additionally, if claimants choose not to register online with CAL-JOBS, an in-person search assistance appointment is required. A missed appointment due to a last minute audition can jeopardize your claim, but if a conflict arises on the scheduled date and time, you have two weeks to reschedule another appointment.

Finally, each individual has unique circumstances. It is always a good idea to consult an EDD professional with questions or visit their website at www.edd.ca.gov when applying.