Now California’s Armenian, Korean, and Tagalog communities can apply online for unemployment benefits in their preferred language. The Employment Development Department (EDD) announced that it has further expanded language access options in its myEDD online portal and UI Online for individuals to apply for unemployment benefits via applications translated into Armenian, Korean, and Tagalog.
This enhancement adds to English, Spanish, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, and Vietnamese languages already available. Together, these eight languages represent the top spoken languages of working-age adults in California. The additional language options are available when applying for unemployment benefits through UI Online after logging into myEDD. Next, EDD will be adding language enhancements for disability or Paid Family Leave applications and Benefit Overpayment Services.
Overview of EDD’s Multilingual Expansion and Modernization Efforts
The California Employment Development Department (EDD) today issued an update on several enhancements being implemented within the Unemployment Insurance (UI) program—including adding dedicated phone lines in Armenian, Korean, and Tagalog so California’s eight most commonly spoken languages are served with direct access assistance, as well as launching the first phase of a new call back feature on the call center. EDD also offers no-cost language interpretation services for all customers in over 100 languages.
The Department’s expanded unemployment customer service phone line numbers, which are featured on the individual Language Resources pages (see the EDD website globe icon), include:
English and Spanish: (800-300-5616)
Armenian: (1-855-528-1518)
Cantonese: (1-800-547-3506)
Korean: (1-844-660-0877)
Mandarin: (1-866-303-0706)
Tagalog: (1-866-395-1513)
Vietnamese: (1-800-547-2058)
California Relay Service (711): Provide the UI number (1-800-300-5616) to the operator.
TTY: (1-800-815-9387)
More information about the EDD’s Language Access Plan.
In line with its modernization, the EDD has launched the EDDNext initiative. This initiative focuses on streamlining the unemployment benefits system to reduce delays, make online services more intuitive, and enhance user experiences. The project also includes improvements in fraud detection and prevention to ensure that benefits are distributed efficiently and securely. For further insights into EDDNext and its goals to optimize digital services, you can explore relevant details on modernization projects like this through platforms such as GovReport.
How to Apply for Unemployment Benefits Online
EDD customers must first create a myEDD account and then register for UI Online, the fastest and most convenient way to apply for benefits and manage an unemployment claim. For languages other than English, customers should select the globe icon at the top of the myEDD login page, revealing a menu of language options. Customers are encouraged to indicate their preferred written and spoken language when applying online, which helps the department to serve better customers seeking multilingual services. The EDD has also established dedicated phone lines in the top languages for unemployed customers who need assistance navigating the claim process.
Managing Your Unemployment Claim Online
Manage your unemployment insurance at all stages of your claim. Understand your role and responsibilities to make sure you certify for benefits correctly, and you are paid the right amount.
Use UI Online to Save Time
UI Online is the fastest and most convenient way to manage your account. You can:
- Receive important notifications such as reminders to certify for benefits.
- Monitor the status of eligibility issues.
- Get your latest claim and payment information.
- View in-person and phone appointments.
- Reschedule a phone interview appointment.
- Update your address and phone number.
- View, print, or request a copy of your Form 1099G tax information from the past five years.
Check on Your Payment Activities
Just like your bank account, you want to closely manage and monitor your account with us.
- Receive Your Benefit Payments | Debit Card
- Claim Status: Pending Payment
- Manage a Benefit Overpayment | UI Online
- Overpayment Withholdings: Tax Refund or Lottery Winnings
- Help Fight Fraud
Understand Benefit Decisions and What to Do Next
Once you apply, we will tell you if you are eligible. Then you can take one of these steps:
Multilingual Resources
- Español (Spanish)
- 中文 (Chinese)
- Ngôn Ngự Việt Nam (Vietnamese)
- العربية (Arabic)
- Français (French)
- Бeзpaбoтицa (Russian)
- Lao, Korean, and Khmer
Overview of the EDDNext Initiative
EDDNext is an ongoing transformation effort that includes updating online applications, contact centers, the claims process, policies, procedures, and forms to make the EDD experience easier and faster. It involves working with customer service experts, such as Amazon Web Services and Salesforce, to ensure EDDNext is forward-thinking and embraces the best technology and practices.
Challenges in Receiving Unemployment Benefits Alone and How to Appeal
Navigating the unemployment benefits process can be challenging for many individuals, particularly when facing claim denials. A common hurdle applicants face is understanding the eligibility criteria for unemployment benefits. If a claim is denied, individuals have the right to appeal. The appeal process can be complex, but it provides a second opportunity for applicants to explain their case and reverse the denial.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the EDD’s online unemployment application process has been enhanced with new language accessibility features, now offering services in Armenian, Korean, and Tagalog alongside six other major languages. These improvements, part of the EDDNext initiative, aim to streamline services and reduce delays, while also strengthening fraud detection measures. With dedicated resources for both applying and managing claims, users can now access unemployment benefits more easily and efficiently across multiple platforms.
