How to File for Unemployment in California
Updated July 2026
Quick Answer
In California, unemployment claims are filed through Employment Development Department. Most initial claims are processed within two to three weeks, though it can take longer if there's an issue with your claim.
California's Employment Development Department (EDD) processes unemployment claims through UI Online, accessed via a myEDD account. A quirk worth knowing: you must be at least 18 years old to apply online — younger claimants have to file by phone, fax, or mail instead — and EDD mails you a separate Customer Account Number within about 10 days that you'll need to finish registering for UI Online.
What You'll Need
- Social Security number
- Work authorization details, if not a U.S. citizen
- Employment and wage history for the past 18 months (base period)
- Date of birth and name as it will appear on the claim
- Bank account and routing number for direct deposit
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1
Create a myEDD account
Register at myedd.edd.ca.gov and confirm your account through the verification email EDD sends you (the link expires within 48 hours, so check spam folders if it doesn't arrive).
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2
Apply for benefits through UI Online
Log in to myEDD and select UI Online to submit your claim; you'll need your name as it appears on the claim, date of birth, and Social Security number.
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3
Register with CalJOBS
California requires claimants to register with the state's CalJOBS job-search system as part of maintaining eligibility.
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4
Complete UI Online registration with your Customer Account Number
EDD mails a Customer Account Number to new claimants within about 10 days of filing; you'll need it to finish setting up full UI Online access, or you can call 1-800-300-5616 if it's lost.
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5
Review your benefit documents and certify weekly
Watch for your benefit determination paperwork, then certify for benefits every two weeks through UI Online to receive payment; expect roughly three weeks before your first payment is processed.
File Your Claim
Compare Other States
Unemployment rules, benefit amounts, and filing steps are set state by state. These share California's census region — useful if you're moving, or comparing how another state runs the program.
Helpful Guides
Unemployment Eligibility Requirements: Who Qualifies
The three tests every state uses to decide unemployment eligibility, and the separation reasons that typically help or hurt your claim.
Learn more →How Unemployment Benefits Work
A plain-English overview of how the joint federal-state unemployment insurance system works, from filing your first claim to your last payment.
Learn more →Unemployment Benefits for Self-Employed and Gig Workers
Regular unemployment insurance is built around W-2 payroll taxes, which is why freelancers and gig workers usually do not qualify — here is what does apply.
Learn more →Partial Unemployment Benefits: Working Part-Time While on Unemployment
Taking part-time work does not automatically end your unemployment claim — most states let you keep a reduced payment if you report your earnings correctly.
Learn more →