The EDD provides services to people and businesses affected by disasters in California.
If you lost your job or cannot work because of a disaster or emergency, you may be eligible forUnemployment Insurance(UI),Disability Insurance(DI), orPaid Family Leave(PFL) benefits.
When authorized by the President of the United States, Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) may also be available for workers and self-employed people who do not qualify for regular UI benefits.
For current state-declared disasters, visitEDD Disaster-Related Services.
File a Claim
Online
UI OnlineSMis the fastest and most convenient way to file your UI claim.
By Phone
Call one of the following toll-free numbers, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.(Pacific Time) except onstate holidays.
English and Spanish:1-800-300-5616
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
TTY:1-800-815-9387
Fax or Mail
When you access UI Online to file a new claim, you may be instructed to fax or mail your UI application. If this happens, theUnemployment Insurance Application(DE 1101I) will display.
For faster and more secure processing, fax the completed form to the number listed on the form. If you decide to mail your UI application, use the address on the form and allow additional time for processing.
If you have a current claim for benefits, and are unable to receive your UI payments at home due to the disaster or emergency, contact yourlocal post office.
Program Eligibility
If you lost your job or cannot work because of a disaster or emergency, you may be eligible for one of the following programs.
Unemployment Insurance
If you are unemployed due to a disaster or emergency, you may be eligible for UI benefits.
When youfile your UI claim, you must tell us that you are unemployed as a result of a disaster or emergency.
Disaster Unemployment Assistance
If the President of the United States declares a disaster in your area, DUA may be authorized. If you become unemployed as a result of the disaster, and you do not qualify for regular UI benefits, you may qualify for DUA.
For more information, viewFact Sheet Disaster Employment Assistance(DE 8714DUA) (PDF).
Disability Insurance
If you become ill or injured and cannot work, you may be eligible forDI benefits.
Paid Family Leave
If you need to care for a family member injured in the disaster, you may be eligible forPFL benefits.
Additional Resources
- United States Postal Service (USPS)– If you have not received your mail, contact your local USPS office or contact ASK USPS at 1-800-275-8777.
- Governor's Office of Emergency Services– Information about disaster relief and other available resources.
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)– Information on applying for disaster assistance, and resources for recent disasters and emergencies. Contact 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585.
- State Insurance Commissioner– Insurance information to protect your home and property. Contact 1-800-927-HELP (4357).
- Red Cross– News and information on available shelters, supplies, and more. For immediate relief or assistance, contact 1-800-733-2767.
- Emergency and Disaster Assistance for Employers
- Employment Development Department Assists Wildfire Victims(YouTube)
