How do I get UI benefits as an independent contractor?

[stopbush]

It’s very confusing. People in my situation are now supposed to qualify for UI benefits. I applied in CA for regular UI and was turned down. That is supposedly the first step - apply and get turned down. You then need to reapply, which I did. Haven’t heard anything.

Now, I just heard during Gov Cuomo’s press briefing that the Feds have launched a site where I can fill out a form with them to speed the process, but no info on where to find that form.

Anybody know?

[redwitch]

1. I would go to the state Dept. Of labor website .

There must be information there.

[stopbush]

2. Nope. Not yet.

[Turbineguy]

3. In Washington they got the program up and running just this weekend.

I'm an independent contractor.

Yesterday afternoon the WA website was so busy it crashed repeatedly. I went back at 10 pm and applied successfully going back to March 29.

When I applied originally it took a couple of days to get an answer.

Washington's rollout date was listed as April 18 and they made it.

[stopbush]

4. Good to know. CA seems to be slow about implementing and updating.

[Turbineguy]

6. These things aren't easy.

When I applied originally I (or they) made an error and my claim was started March 22. I was amazed they had the money in my account in 2 days. I wrote them to tell them that I thought there was a mistake but haven't heard back. My business shut down on March 18.

Coverage for independent contractors starts as of March 30.

[stopbush]

5. Whaddayaknow. CA EDD just updated their info:

“We have a dedicated team working around the clock with state partners to build this new program as quickly as possible. The EDD will begin accepting online applications for this program on Tuesday, April 28. This page will be updated with instructions for filing a claim for PUA benefits when details become available.“

https://www.edd.ca.gov/about_edd/coronavirus-2019/pandemic-unemployment-assistance.htm