Q: Can i collect partial unemployment benefits from my job if my hours got cut but im still working there?

A: In California, you may be eligible for partial unemployment benefits if your working hours have been reduced. These benefits are designed to help employees who haven't lost their job entirely but are earning less due to reduced hours.

To apply, you should file a claim with the Employment Development Department (EDD) of California. When filing, you'll need to provide information about your employment and earnings, and explain that your hours were cut. It's important to continue reporting your weekly earnings when you receive partial benefits, as this will affect the amount you're eligible to receive.

Remember, each case is unique, and eligibility depends on specific circumstances. If you're unsure or need guidance, it might be helpful to seek further advice or assistance, perhaps from a legal advisor or the EDD directly. They can provide more personalized information based on your situation.

A: According to the Economic Development Department,

Partial Claims

Partial claims are for workers whose employers want to keep them employed when there is a lack of work.

The employer certifies that the employee is expected to return to work and gives them a form. The employee uses the form to file an Unemployment Insurance (UI) claim.

Employees

If you are an employee who used the Notice of Reduced Earnings (DE 2063) (PDF) or Notice of Reduced Earnings (Fisherperson) (DE 2063F) (PDF) to file for UI benefits, you are not required to look for a new job because your employer has certified that there will be a job for you shortly. You are considered partially unemployed.

How to File a Claim

You should have the following items prepared to file a claim for partial UI benefits:

Full Name

Social Security number

Mailing address

Home address (if different than mailing address)

Phone number

Most recent employer information

Company name

Address (mailing and physical location)

Phone number

All employer information from the 18 months before you filed your claim

Names of employers

Period of employment

Wages earned

Method of payment

Driver’s license or ID card number, if you have one

Most recent date worked and the reason you are no longer working

Citizenship status (which can include an alien registration number)

If we need to verify the information you provide, we will mail you additional information or request more documentation.

Employers

To participate in the partial claims program, download the Notice of Reduced Earnings (DE 2063) (PDF) or Notice of Reduced Earnings (Fisherperson) (DE 2063F) (PDF) and issue to your employee. You may also order the form by visiting Online Forms and Publications. For questions, Contact the EDD.

https://edd.ca.gov/en/unemployment/Partial_Claims/