An Introduction to California’s Benefits System and the EDD

 
 
 
 
  Good rating  
 Based on 395 reviews 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Words can't express how grateful I am for Charlie at Pershing! I've been dealing with a very stressful EDD appeal for quite some time and considering I was up against $16k in collections with EDD - I figured it was worth hiring someone to help me navigate the situation. I received my verdict today and instead of having to pay back thousands of dollars, only $1,800 is due to EDD and I get to move on with my life! This was my first time in this type of situation, and first time having to hire an attorney and i'm glad I did. I can say with 100% confidence that I received the outcome I did because of Charlie. Outside of Charlie, the office has always been responsive to my emails asking for updates which I also really appreciated. Thank you Pershing Square Law Firm!!<3
  
 
  
 
 
 Kelly Schultz 
 
14 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I had a great experience with Rastegar Law Group. The team was professional, knowledgeable, and attentive throughout the process. They communicated clearly, answered questions, and made sure I felt informed every step of the way. Their dedication, responsiveness, and commitment to providing quality service really stood out. I would highly recommend Rastegar Law Group to anyone looking for a professional and reliable legal team!
  
 
  
 
 
 Mathew Park 
 
19 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
I was very happy with my experience with Pershing Square Law Center and I  highly recommend them!  From start to finish, the experience has been excellent. I’m writing this review before receiving the judgment for my EDD appeal case, but I already feel incredibly grateful for my lawyer Charlie’s representation. I know without a doubt that I would have had no chance without him.
I was able to speak with Charlie three times before the hearing, and he called me immediately afterward to go over everything. You can tell he is passionate about his work, genuinely a good human being with a good heart and a deep aptitude for what he does.
When I first called Pershing Square Law Center, I was assisted right away, and they made it clear that I would be represented on contingency and that I would be not charged a fee directly.  The intake process was friendly, concise, and included a brief conversation with the attorney. The intake staff member who handled my call was cordial, clear, and very helpful in completing intake documents.
After the intake, I was pleasantly surprised and truly impressed by the responsiveness of the entire team, especially from Alison and Genecis.  Every email and voicemail I sent  with questions before my EDD hearing was answered clearly and professionally, usually within 24 hours and never later than 48.
A unique aspect of my case is that it involved an overpayment appeal rather than a denial of benefits. This meant the potential contingency payout for Pershing Square Law Center was very small. Despite that, the team remained consistently responsive, and at no point did I feel that Charlie and the staff at Pershing Square Law Center treated my case as less important than a case with a larger potential for a payout.
While writing this, I noticed some negative reviews. I can only speculate that those may come from people with highly emotional expectations of being guaranteed a big payday. My experience has been nothing but excellent, ethical, and professional from beginning to end. I
Thank you, Pershing Square Law Center!
  
 
  
 
 
 Michael Turner 
 
42 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Amazing law firm they helped me win my appeal they even called a week later to ask if I needed help with anything else. The follow showed me what an amazing law firm they are and that they actually care about the clients. I would give 10 stars if I could thanks again
  
 
  
 
 
 Vahan 
 
67 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
I was originally denied my EDD disability benefits in California, but Pershing Square Law Firm, PC stepped in and filed an appeal. They got my temporary disability benefits approved within 30 days. Every member of the firm I spoke to was very professional, and the team was responsive, kind and really knew the process. I highly recommend them if you’re facing a denial.
  
 
  
 
 
 Omar H 
 
73 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Well, I have to say that if I could give a 100 million stars, I would Assaf really did create a miracle? I appreciate all the work. Thank you to the whole law firm. And most of all, thank you
  
 
  
 
 
 Tamara Utterback 
 
73 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
They are the best always fighting for you they’re never stop doing it I am very proud and satisfied with my lawyer they won my case thanks for eveer guys good team
  
 
  
 
 
 Dio 
 
78 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
I highly recommend and appreciate this firm.  I had an EDD conundrum very very time consuming  and had alot of moving parts. I had no idea what to do when it all started.  Everyone's case is different but trust the process. Charlie will fight for you. Charlie and Alison were communicating with me throughout this journey.  Thank you Charlie 😊
  
 
  
 
 
 LaTonya Stewart 
 
97 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
I wanna start by saying how satisfied and happy I am to have found Pershing law firm They were able to help me get my EDD case resolved results were amazing. Their staff was super friendly, helpful and diligent in their work 10 out of 10 would recommend if you are in need of help with the Edd this firm is who you need
  
 
  
 
 
 wilburg cornejo 
 
123 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Absolutely will recommend Charlie Minchenberg. Won my case even though I was incarcerated. 100 percent reccomend this law firm as well Charlie.
  
 
  
 
 
 Christian Rubalcava 
 
139 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
I like to thank the Team at Pershing square, Dafne, Assaf, and Daniel for helping me through 2 cases.
I owe Assaf a big thanks for winning the PUA case for me years ago and this time Daniel for his excellent guidance with my EDD case. Especially a case that’s classified as voluntary quit ( one of the harder cases to fight).

To all the people complaining about how little the attorney does during the hearing you shouldn’t,  because in these cases, all the judge really cares about is your testimony and your opponents testimony if there are any, it is not criminal defense stuff. Daniel did a tremendous job helping me prepare and I was nailing the judges questions.

At last, thank you guys so much again. This is the end of my dealings with EDD for my lifetime and to all of you reading this, they are absolutely the best reliable attorneys to hire if it is a tough case.
  
 
  
 
 
 The New Right 
 
186 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
There truly are not enough words to express how grateful I am to Pershing Square Law Firm, especially Charlie, Alexis, and their entire team. They helped me through an incredibly stressful EDD overpayment appeal case that had been weighing heavily on me and my family for a long time.

From the very beginning, they treated me with kindness, patience, professionalism, and genuine care. At a time when I felt anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about the future, they gave me reassurance, guidance, and confidence throughout the entire process. They never made me feel like just another case. They listened to my situation, believed in me, and fought hard on my behalf every step of the way.

Charlie represented me with incredible professionalism and dedication, and Alexis was always responsive, supportive, and compassionate whenever I had questions or concerns. Their communication and commitment truly made one of the hardest situations in my life feel manageable.

Thanks to their hard work and persistence, we were able to achieve a positive outcome in my case, which brought an enormous sense of relief to me and my family. Looking back now, the retainer fee was absolutely worth it for the peace of mind, support, and outcome they helped me achieve.

If anyone is dealing with an EDD overpayment or appeal issue and wants a team that genuinely cares about their clients, I wholeheartedly recommend Pershing Square Law Firm. I am beyond thankful for everything they did for me.

Thank you again to Charlie, Alexis, and the entire team from the bottom of my heart.
  
 
  
 
 
 Ai N 
 
187 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
I had a great experience working with Pershing Square Law Firm, specifically with my attorney, Charlie. I hired him at the beginning of February, and in less than a month, I already had a hearing date and my case was successfully settled.

I was honestly a little hesitant at first because my situation dated back three to four years, and I had spent a long time searching for an unemployment lawyer without any luck. Finding this firm was a huge relief.

Charlie was professional, efficient, and helped move my case forward much faster than I expected. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome, and I’m so grateful to finally have this behind me so I can move forward with my life.

I highly recommend Pershing Square Law Firm to anyone dealing with unemployment issues—they truly made a stressful situation so much easier.
  
 
  
 
 
 Cee Cee Cooks 
 
234 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
I filled for FMLA with MyEDD. I had to mail in additional documents they needed. But each time I send in a documents, I noticed it was mail back to a difference FMLA address. In the end, my FMLA was denied due to lack of documents. I tried to call MyEDD FMLA but could never get through, always get hang up on. I tried to leave messages in MyEDD account but never got answer. Sent in my Appeal notice, still no answer from MyEDD FMLA. I started the process in May of 2025. At the end of 2025, I did a search online for FMLA lawyer and Pershing Square Law Firm came up. I contacted them and agreed on the fee. They contact MyEDD on my behalf, but didn't get a respond right away. They notified me and had to escalate the claim with MyEDD FMLA. That worked. MyEDD responded and reverse my claim status. I was paid. Without PS Law Firm, I don't think I would have got paid at all.
  
 
  
 
 
 Rung Nguyen 
 
234 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
I cannot recommend Charlie highly enough. He was absolutely phenomenal in helping me resolve an SDI overpayment case of nearly $20,000 with the California EDD.What felt overwhelming and intimidating at first became manageable because of his guidance and expertise.

Charlie made the entire process clear and straightforward. He walked me through every step, explained what to expect, and made sure I understood exactly what was needed. His attention to detail and strategic approach truly made a difference in my case. My best advice to anyone working with him is simple: listen carefully to everything he asks and, most importantly, be completely honest. He genuinely looks out for your best interests and can only advocate effectively when he has the full picture.

Thank you so much, Charlie, for your patience, professionalism, and dedication. I am incredibly grateful for your help.

I also want to thank Alison for standing by me and helping make those difficult calls to stop wage garnishment. Her support meant so much during a very stressful time. The entire firm has an excellent staff—compassionate, responsive, and truly committed to their clients.

If you’re facing an SDI/EDD issue, you want this team on your side.
  
 
  
 
 
 Jaz&Jen Flaherty 
 
264 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
I want to share about my experience working with Pershing Law Firm. I was so hesitant to try this with a very old EDD overpayment case but I am so glad I did. I was assigned Daniel Altshuler as my attorney and he delivered pure professional and results I didn’t even think possible. The EDD claimed I owed nearly $20,000 from 13 years ago. They have taken over $10,000 in tax intercepts alone and much more. Daniel was able to get my case fully reversed on the first hearing. Not only that but I was refunded all money that EDD had even taken from me within one week of the hearing and reversal. I am so grateful to Daniel and Pershing Square Law Firm. If you’re on the fence about doing this, don’t be! I do recommend Daniel for your attorney though. That man deserves a raise!
  
 
  
 
 
 Jessica Ports 
 
294 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Excellent experience working with the team from beginning to end. I genuinely felt like they cared about my case and winning it. Thank you Samantha for guiding me through the process. I would highly recommend this firm.
  
 
  
 
 
 Monica Thompson 
 
294 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Charlie and the people at Pershing square truly care about their clients. They picked up the phone every single time I called answered every question I had. Not only were they professional and accommodating they were effective. I cannot recommend them enough.
  
 
  
 
 
 Cody Cleveland 
 
311 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
I had given up hope that I would be able to even get the opportunity to appeal EDD's determination until the attorneys from Pershing Square took the time to walk me through the process and fight for me at the hearing. The attorneys there made a terrifying process a lot easier by being there at every step. I can't imagine what the outcome would've been had I did it on my own.
  
 
  
 
 
 B A 
 
334 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
This law firm is amazing. My Attorney was Assaf L. Assaf took my case in less than 24 hours, made sure I was prepped a few times prior to the hearing and worked with me to establish a payment plan. I couldn’t recommend a better law firm. The level of diligence and effort this dude puts in is unmatched. May god bless you Assaf!
  
 
  
 
 
 jorden grayson 
 
340 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
I'm so glad I found Pershing Square Law Firm, PC. They were super thorough and quick. After I hired them, they got right to work on my case. They sent in an appeals request on August 4, 2025, and let me know. I didn't hear anything from PS or the EDD for about a week, which felt like forever at the time, so I emailed to make sure I hadn't missed anything. Within 30 minutes, I got a reply assuring me everything was going to plan and that we were just waiting on the EDD. On August 24, I got a notice from EDD that my appeal was accepted and was in review. September 3, I got a date for the hearing. A week before and the day before, my attorney called me to chat about the hearing and how it would go down. This was awesome because I was super nervous. My hearing was on September 23 and was over the phone. Talking to my attorney the day before really helped, I would've been lost without her. The hearing went super well and took about 45 minutes. My attorney, Samantha, represented me well, and the Judge was really patient and understanding. Samantha followed up with me the next day, explaining my next steps, which was basically just waiting for the Judge's decision. On October 28, I got the notification that I won the appeal! The judge found that I wasn't fired for misconduct, but rather a misunderstanding. I was able to certify, and my funds were released almost immediately. The checks went to PS, they took their payment, and then mailed me the rest via USPS.I got it in 2 days. When I opened the package and added everything up, it looked like I was missing almost $600. So I sent an email without double-checking first, and then quickly sent an apology because I'd forgotten I asked for my taxes to be taken out and two of the checks were stuck together. This new discovery made the total amount I got equal to what was due. So my advice is to double-check before jumping to conclusions. Pershing Square is amazing, and I wouldn't have won my appeal without their help. If you need an appeals lawyer, I totally recommend this law firm.
Thank You Pershing Square.
Sincerely,
Charlotte B.
  
 
  
 
 
 Charlee 
 
353 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
I hired this law firm due to an EDD disqualification. They took on my case a week before, and reversed the EDD's disqualification at the court hearing! Was super simple and easy to deal with! Huge props!
  
 
  
 
 
 Jason Chan 
 
355 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Although my case was a pretty cut and dry win for me, I would recommend this lawfirm. My court hearing lasted about 7 min and I barley said a word, which is a good thing. If your expecting Backpay from the EDD, just be prepared to wait a while, as the checks must be mailed to there firm first. Staff is friendly, but also busy, so there not available all the time. They gave me Solid service at a  reasonable price.
  
 
  
 
 
 Brant Marks 
 
379 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
I am deeply grateful to attorney Daniel Altshuler for representing me at my unemployment hearing. After enduring eight months of unfair treatment from a coworker and a supervisor, I felt hopeless and powerless. The employer even brought four witnesses and tried to use my resignation letter against me, making the case highly contested.

Daniel listened to me with patience, believed in me, and stood firmly by my side. Thanks to his professionalism, preparation, and dedication, the judge recognized that I had made a reasonable decision and ruled in my favor.

For me, this case was never just about unemployment insurance or money—it was about justice, dignity, and being heard. Daniel helped me win back not only the case but also my confidence.

I truly appreciate his support. He is the one who made the difference, and I highly recommend him and Pershing Square Law Firm to anyone who needs strong and compassionate representation.
  
 
  
 
 
 T H 
 
409 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
I hired them and within a month my case was resolved they have great communication and work very fast I recommend their services I had an overpayment EDD case they also offered me a payment plan which was great
  
 
  
 
 
 Jessica Estrada 
 
409 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
I'm recommending Pershing square law to my family and Friends They are the best very professional and friendly staff
  
 
  
 
 
 Jerome Patton 
 
413 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
I just want to thank Pershing law firm for an outstanding service Alexis and the entire team were outstanding speechless there's no words to thank the entire team thanks again everybody.
  
 
  
 
 
 Manny R. 
 
417 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Won my appeal and got paid fast. They kept me updated and informed through the whole process. Very professional and  Great service!!!
  
 
  
 
 
 Abel Watts 
 
418 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
ALEXIS, ATTORNEY RICHARD AND THE STAFF ARE AMAZING! They helped me win my EDD overpayment appeal from 4-5 years ago and it only took 2 months! I appreciate how quickly this team worked and how communicative they were through the whole thing!! thank you guys again for everything!!!
  
 
  
 
 
 Ayesha M. 
 
426 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Don't wait until the last minute to contact them if you never dealt with Edd hearings for wrongful termination and denial of benefits.  My attorney was Daniel and although the appeals court kept saying I didn't need an attorney and Daniel called me right away to talk to me.  They aren't about the money.  It's not as if the attorney has to be in contact with you but I thankfully still kept them as my attorney.  Daniel walked me through everything I needed to know for the hearing and I kept discussing more than just what he was asking.  I have been through almost all kinds of court hearings and this was completely different.  He prepared me for exactly what I needed to know.  He could tell I was nervous and I wasn't understanding him so he gave me the benefit of the doubt.  He walked me through the questions and the process.  It was brutal but he had me 100% prepared for this hearing.  I also have to say he reminded me I am caring, intelligent, and he wants me to win this.  This morning I had so much anxiety about the hearing I was literally in tears but he calmed me down and got me ready to get on the hearing.  If you think you know better I would encourage you to retain an attorney.  He reminded me of things I forgot and his closing statement was just unbelievable.  So blessed.
  
 
  
 
 
 rebecca Bolds 
 
438 days ago