You can file a claim for Unemployment Benefits using one of the following methods:
File Online
Go to the EDD Online Application for Unemployment Benefits website at your convenience. The site is secure, reliable, and the fastest way to file your claim. Please note that the Career Centers are not an Unemployment Office.
File by Telephone
Note: Please note that as of May 20, 2013, the EDD Unemployment Insurance Call Center has reduced it hours to 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. due to the funding cuts as a result of federal sequestration.
From home, call 1 (800) 300-5616 between 8:00 a.m.and 12:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. This service is not available on State Holidays. Separate EDD Telephone Numbers are available for Spanish, Chinese, and Vietnamese speaking customers. For those Deaf and Hard of Hearing Customers please contact EDD type teletypewriter (TTY) at 1 (800) 815-9387 or through the California Relay Service at 711.
If you do not have a computer or telephone at your home, you can access one at the at any of our Career Center Locations.
File by Mail or Fax
Use the paper application available at the EDD Unemployment Insurance Forms and Publications.
More EDD Information