Job Loss Support and Unemployment Help for Single Mothers in California

Job Loss Support & Unemployment Help for Single Mothers in California

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, no‑fluff hub to help you steady your income fast, keep your kids covered, and protect your home while you get back to work. Every step below links you straight to official California and federal resources. Keep this page open while you apply through EDD Unemployment, check training options in CalJOBS, and find local in‑person help via 211 California.

Reality Check: Processing isn’t instant. UI claims often take about three weeks for the first payment, even when you do everything right, and some programs run out of funds. Apply early, respond fast to requests, and line up backup options in case funding is tight. See timing details under Receive Your First Payment and have the EDD Contact Center numbers handy. (edd.ca.gov)

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Apply for Unemployment Insurance now: File online through UI Online and certify every two weeks through myEDD to avoid delays; call Unemployment Customer Service at 1-800-300-5616 if you hit an error. Expect a one‑week unpaid waiting period and about three weeks to first payment; switch to direct deposit to speed deposits. (edd.ca.gov)
Secure health coverage the same day: If you lost job‑based coverage, start a Special Enrollment at Covered California or enroll in no‑cost Medi‑Cal; call Covered California at 1-800-300-1506 to lock in the start date. As of January 1, 2024, adults 26–49 can qualify for full‑scope Medi‑Cal regardless of immigration status (income rules still apply). (coveredca.com)
Stop a shutoff today and lower bills: Ask your utility for a payment plan and enroll in CARE/FERA discounts; if you owe $500 +, re q u es tt h e * [A rre a r a g e M ana g e m e n tPl an (A MP)] (h ttp s : // www . p g e . co m / e n / a cco u n t / bi ll in g - an d - a ss i s t an ce / f inan c ia l - a ss i s t an ce / a rre a r a g e - mana g e m e n t - pl an - am p . h t m l) * t o f or g i v e u pt o$ 8,000 in past‑due energy bills. For water shutoff protections under the Water Shutoff Protection Act (SB 998), contact your water provider and review the state rules at the State Water Board. If disconnection is imminent, call the CPUC Consumer Affairs Branch at 1-800-649-7570. (cpuc.ca.gov)

Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

Unemployment Phone Help: EDD UI Customer Service 1-800-300-5616 (languages available; TTY 1-800-815-9387) and Self‑Service Line 1-866-333-4606 to certify by phone. (edd.ca.gov)
Health Coverage Enrollment: Covered California Service Center 1-800-300-1506 and Medi‑Cal Help 1-800-541-5555; find local help via CoveredCA storefronts. (www1.coveredca.com)
Food Today / Apply for CalFresh: CalFresh Benefits Helpline 1-877-847-3663; apply through BenefitsCal or get support at GetCalFresh (info site). (cdss.ca.gov)
Utility & Phone Discounts: Enroll in CARE/FERA energy discounts, apply for LIHEAP energy bill help (call 1-866-675-6623), and get phone savings via California LifeLine (1-866-272-0349). (cpuc.ca.gov)
Local In‑Person Help: Dial 2‑1‑1 or use 211 California’s locator for nearby food, rent, and childcare leads; find a job center through America’s Job Center of California (AJCC). (211ca.org)

Start Here — Unemployment Insurance (UI): File, Certify, Get Paid

File your claim online first. The fastest route is UI Online through your myEDD account; if the site blocks you, call EDD UI Customer Service at 1-800-300-5616 and ask for help resetting access. You must be out of work through no fault of your own, able and available to work, and actively seeking work unless you’re approved for training under California Training Benefits. Weekly benefits range from $40 t o$ 450. (edd.ca.gov)

Reality Check: UI often takes about three weeks to first payment, and you must certify for benefits about two weeks after filing. A one‑week waiting period applies before the first payable week counts. Use UI Online to certify and check the Claim Status Tracker to avoid delays. (edd.ca.gov)

UI Quick Facts (California)

Item	What to know
How to apply:	Online via UI Online; phone help at EDD Contact 1-800-300-5616. (edd.ca.gov)
First payment timeline:	About three weeks from filing if eligible; you’ll certify after two weeks. (edd.ca.gov)
Waiting period:	One unpaid week at start of claim (served when you certify). (edd.ca.gov)
Weekly Benefit Amount (WBA):	$40-$ 450, based on base‑period wages. (edd.ca.gov)
Payment options:	Direct deposit (about three days after processing), debit card, or mailed check (7–10 days). Switch in myEDD. (edd.ca.gov)
Languages/TTY:	EDD offers interpreter help; TTY 1-800-815-9387. (edd.ca.gov)

Keep your CalJOBS profile active so EDD sees you’re job‑ready. Log in to CalJOBS (mobile users can download the CalJOBS app) and visit an AJCC one‑stop for resume help and workshop referrals. This matters if EDD checks your work search. (edd.ca.gov)

How to certify without mistakes

Double‑check work/wage answers: Report all work and gross earnings when you certify through UI Online or by phone at 1-866-333-4606; incorrect responses cause pending status. Use the Understanding Certification Questions guide. (edd.ca.gov)
Track your claim status: If payment says “Pending,” check your Claim Status Tracker and respond to any EDD interview notice right away. Keep EDD Contact numbers nearby. (edd.ca.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask an EDD supervisor callback through UI Online → Contact Us, visit your nearest AJCC for in‑person help with online access, and call the EDD line during mid‑week afternoons when hold times are lighter. If you get a denial, file an appeal within 30 days—see Appeals below. (edd.ca.gov)

Extend Your Safety Net While You Retrain — California Training Benefits

If you plan to start school or a short‑term certificate, apply for California Training Benefits (CTB) so you can keep UI while in approved training and pause work‑search requirements. You must notify EDD before your 16th week of benefit payments to qualify for a Training Extension that can add extra weeks. Start by messaging “School or Training → California Training Benefits (CTB)” in UI Online, or speak to staff at an AJCC. (edd.ca.gov)

Choose training on the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) so WIOA funds may help with tuition, equipment, and supportive services; search ETPL programs inside CalJOBS and ask the AJCC about an Individual Training Account. If your field was disrupted (layoff, automation), “self‑arranged training” can qualify when it meets CTB rules (typically ≤24 months). (edd.ca.gov)

Reality Check: CTB doesn’t pay school costs; it only protects UI and may extend weeks after approval. Ask your AJCC about WIOA grants and the High Road Training Partnerships, which fund training for priority sectors like healthcare in 2025. (edd.ca.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Keep certifying for UI under regular rules while you appeal a CTB denial; meet work‑search requirements unless and until CTB is approved. Re‑apply for a different program on the ETPL via CalJOBS and request AJCC case management help. (edd.ca.gov)

Cut Hours Instead of a Layoff — Work Sharing

If your hours were reduced 10–60%, ask your employer about EDD Work Sharing so you can keep your job and collect partial UI. Plans run for one year and can be started the Sunday before the employer contacts EDD; employees keep health/retirement benefits and receive a proportion of their weekly benefit (still capped at $450/week). Share EDD’s employer page and FAQs. (edd.ca.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your employer won’t join Work Sharing, file a standard UI claim for partial unemployment and certify the hours you did work. If later laid off, your claim can continue. (edd.ca.gov)

Health Coverage After Job Loss: Keep Your Kids and Yourself Covered

Losing coverage triggers a Special Enrollment Period with Covered California; apply within 60 days to start coverage the 1st of the next month, or enroll in Medi‑Cal any time through your county social services or BenefitsCal. For help choosing a plan, call Covered California at 1-800-300-1506; for Medi‑Cal enrollment, call DHCS Member Help at 1-800-541-5555. (coveredca.com)

California expanded full‑scope Medi‑Cal to ages 26–49 regardless of immigration status starting January 1, 2024 (income rules still apply). If your kids and you qualify, coverage can start retroactively to the month you apply. Use the Medi‑Cal expansion overview to confirm. (dhcs.ca.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Medi‑Cal Managed Care Ombudsman at 1-888-452-8609 for plan issues, and contact Covered California’s Ombuds if your enrollment stalls. Ask your county for a temporary benefits ID if you have urgent care needs. (dhcs.ca.gov)

Food Support Right Away — CalFresh and WIC

If money is tight, CalFresh can start fast. Counties must screen for “expedited service” and issue benefits within three days if you have little cash. Apply on BenefitsCal, and call the CalFresh Benefits Helpline at 1-877-847-3663 if you need help or can’t log in. As of FY 2025 (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025), the maximum for a family of four in the 48 states is $975; minim u mb e n e f i t i s$ 23. (cdss.ca.gov)

If you’re pregnant or have kids under five, WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) gives monthly healthy foods and breastfeeding/feeding support. WIC doesn’t look at immigration status for eligibility. Call California WIC outreach at 1-888-942-9675 or ask your clinic to connect you, and use WIC with CalFresh to stretch your budget. (cdph.ca.gov)

Reality Check: CalFresh amounts vary by income, rent, and utilities, and may be lower than the maximums. Emergency allotments ended, so budget on the standard chart and confirm your Standard Utility Allowance with your county. (calfresh.guide)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county about an expedited interview and same‑day EBT card activation. If denied or delayed beyond 30 days, request a State Hearing with CDSS State Hearings Division at 1-800-743-8525 and continue to submit verification. (cdss.ca.gov)

Cash Aid When Income Drops — CalWORKs

If your household has a minor child and very low income, CalWORKs provides temporary cash aid and job services; apply at BenefitsCal or contact your county. For emergency rent help, CalWORKs Homeless Assistance can pay for up to 16 days of shelter and help with deposits or two months of arrears to stop eviction; ask your worker for the CW‑42 form. Los Angeles County details and phone support are posted on LA DPSS CalWORKs. (cdss.ca.gov)

For childcare while job‑seeking or in training, CalWORKs Stage 1–3 Child Care can cover care as you stabilize and transition back to work; Stage 1 is county‑run, Stages 2–3 are managed by Alternative Payment Programs under CDSS. Review family fee rules and exemptions (many very‑low‑income families owe no fee). (cdss.ca.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your county delays emergency help, ask for a Supervisor/Expedite and cite the Homeless Assistance rules from CDSS; if denied, request a State Hearing. For childcare access problems, call the Child Care Programs Bureau at (916) 657‑2144 and your local Resource & Referral via 211. (cdss.ca.gov)

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in California Today

Start with your utility’s hardship team and then stack programs:

Discounts: Enroll in CARE (≈30–35% off electric) / FERA (≈18% off); gas bills usually drop 20% under CARE. (cpuc.ca.gov)
Past‑due forgiveness: If you owe $500 + (p a r t o f i t > 90 d a ys), a s k f or * [A MP d e b t f or g i v e n ess] (h ttp s : // www . sce . co m / s a v e - m o n ey / in co m e - q u a l i f i e d - p ro g r am s / a rre a r a g e - mana g e m e n t - pl an s) * (u pt o$ 8,000 cleared after 12 on‑time payments). (sce.com)
Energy crisis help: Apply for LIHEAP at your local agency or by calling 1-866-675-6623; California’s 2025 LIHEAP funds are active (funding is limited; call to confirm). (csd.ca.gov)
Phone service: Switch to California LifeLine (discounted cell/home service; Call Center 1-866-272-0349). (cpuc.ca.gov)
Water shutoffs: Use the state’s SB 998 protections and ask for a payment plan; then call the CPUC Consumer Affairs Branch at 1-800-649-7570 if shutoff is imminent. (waterboards.ca.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File an informal complaint with the CPUC and ask CAB to intervene the same day; also call 211 for one‑time utility help from charities while AMP/LIHEAP are pending. (cpuc.ca.gov)

Keep Your Tax and Child Support in Order After Job Loss

Unemployment benefits are taxable federally but are not taxed by the State of California; you’ll get a 1099‑G and can ask EDD to withhold federal tax. Confirm the rules at the Franchise Tax Board and check your 1099‑G in UI Online. (ftb.ca.gov)

If you pay or receive child support, ask for a quick review and modification after job loss. Contact your local office via California Child Support Services (Customer Connect) and use your county Family Law Facilitator for free forms help on a modification or wage order update through the California Courts Self‑Help pages. (childsupport.ca.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File your own modification with the guidance from the Family Law Facilitator network; mark your filing date because courts can generally only change support retroactive to when you filed. If you can’t reach DCSS, visit your court’s facilitator (see examples and contact pages above) for walk‑in help. (courts.ca.gov)

If Your UI Is Denied or Stuck — Appeals That Work

You have 30 calendar days from the EDD notice to appeal. Mail or upload Appeal Form DE 1000M to the return address on your decision, then track your hearing through the CUIAB myAppeal portal. You’ll get at least 10 days’ notice before the phone hearing with an Administrative Law Judge. (edd.ca.gov)

If you lose at the first level, you can file a Board Appeal within 30 days; the Board reviews the existing record, so submit any key documents you missed with an explanation. Find timelines and addresses on CUIAB’s Guide and rights page. (cuiab.ca.gov)

For free legal coaching before a hearing, call Legal Aid at Work’s Workers’ Rights Clinic at 1-866-864-8208 or ask Central California Legal Services about UI clinics in the Central Valley. Use LawHelpCA to find local legal aid. (legalaidatwork.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If the Board denies your appeal, you still can file a Writ of Mandate in Superior Court within six months; ask your local Family/Self‑Help Center or a legal aid program for guidance. Keep certifying for any pending weeks so EDD can pay if you win. (cuiab.ca.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Topic	Where to act now
Unemployment Insurance:	File and certify in UI Online; phone help at EDD Contact 1-800-300-5616; Self‑Service 1-866-333-4606. (edd.ca.gov)
Training while on UI:	Request CTB via UI Online; ask AJCC about WIOA/ETPL programs. (edd.ca.gov)
Health coverage:	Covered California 1-800-300-1506; Medi‑Cal Help 1-800-541-5555. (www1.coveredca.com)
Food benefits:	Apply on BenefitsCal; CalFresh Helpline 1-877-847-3663; WIC 1-888-942-9675. (cdss.ca.gov)
Utility & phone savings:	CARE/FERA; AMP; LIHEAP 1-866-675-6623; LifeLine 1-866-272-0349. (cpuc.ca.gov)
Appeals:	CUIAB myAppeal; Appeal instructions; legal help via Legal Aid at Work. (cuiab.ca.gov)

Application Checklist (screenshot‑friendly)

Photo ID: CA DMV ID/Driver License info and a second ID if available; for EDD identity checks, keep your UI Online profile updated.
Social Security numbers: For you and kids; if not available, gather any immigration documents for Medi‑Cal/WIC eligibility.
Last pay stub or W‑2s: Needed for UI base‑period wages and CalFresh income verification.
Layoff/termination info: Offer letter or separation notice for UI and training waivers.
Proof of rent and utilities: Lease, ledger, and bills for CalFresh deductions and CalWORKs Homeless Assistance.
Bank info: For EDD direct deposit setup and refunds.
Child care details: Provider info for CalWORKs Child Care support.
Job search log: Keep a simple weekly record for UI eligibility; use CalJOBS to document activity. (edd.ca.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Missing the first certification window: Your first certification is about two weeks after applying. Set alerts in UI Online and certify on time to avoid “Pending.” (edd.ca.gov)
Not telling EDD about school/training: Without CTB, EDD can deny weeks if you’re unavailable for work. Report training via UI Online during the week you start. (edd.ca.gov)
Ignoring child support when income drops: Support usually changes only from the date you file. Start a modification with CA Child Support Services or your Family Law Facilitator immediately. (childsupport.ca.gov)
Waiting on past‑due utilities: Apply for AMP and LIHEAP early; funds are limited and enrollment rules apply. (pge.com)

Local Organizations, Charities, and Support Groups

Use 211 California’s map to find rent, food, and childcare programs in your county, and search LawHelpCA for legal aid. In Los Angeles, call Jewish Family Service LA at 1-877-275-4537 for stabilization support and use LA DPSS for CalWORKs and rent help. (211ca.org)

Statewide, your local Salvation Army and Catholic Charities often run one‑time eviction‑prevention or utility funds; start at 211 and ask for “rental assistance” or “utility assistance,” and confirm openings before you go. For employment rights and UI coaching, call Legal Aid at Work (toll‑free 1-866-864-8208). (211ca.org)

Resources by Region (examples you can contact now)

Los Angeles County: Apply for CalWORKs/CalFresh at LA DPSS; call JFS LA 1-877-275-4537 for crisis support; find more through 211 LA. (dpss.lacounty.gov)
San Diego County: Use 211 San Diego to locate rent/food; visit an AJCC for training vouchers; apply on BenefitsCal for food/health. (edd.ca.gov)
Bay Area (SF/Oakland/San Jose): Call 211 Bay Area; get legal help via LawHelpCA; find job fairs through CalJOBS.
Central Valley (Fresno/Visalia/Modesto): Reach Central California Legal Services 1-800-675-8001; search 211; apply through BenefitsCal. (centralcallegal.org)
Inland Empire (Riverside/San Bernardino): Use Inland SoCal United Way’s 211; check AJCC for dislocated‑worker services; apply on BenefitsCal.
Rural Northern Counties: Legal aid via LawHelpCA; 211 for local fuel/food; call your court’s Family Law Facilitator for child support changes. (courts.ca.gov)

Diverse Communities — Targeted Tips and Contacts

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask Covered California for plans with strong gender‑affirming care networks; report workplace bias or leave denials to Legal Aid at Work; use 211 to find LGBTQ‑affirming counseling and domestic‑violence services. Accessibility note: request interpreter services or large‑print notices when calling agencies. (coveredca.com)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Apply for Medi‑Cal (ask for plan case management) and disability‑related childcare fee exemptions under CDSS Child Care; request Medical Baseline with your utility while enrolling in CARE/FERA. TTY services available: EDD TTY 1-800-815-9387. (dhcs.ca.gov)
Veteran single mothers: Use veteran reps at AJCCs for priority services and ask Covered California about VA coordination; call CalFresh 1-877-847-3663 for expedited food support. (coveredca.com)
Immigrant or refugee single moms: Full‑scope Medi‑Cal covers adults regardless of immigration status (income rules apply). UI requires work authorization, but CalFresh and WIC have categories that may cover children. Check rules with DHCS Medi‑Cal and California WIC. Language access: EDD and CPUC provide interpreters free of charge. (dhcs.ca.gov)
Tribal resources: Ask your county or CDSS about Tribal TANF programs and food supports; call CalFresh for eligibility in tribal areas; call LifeLine at 1-866-272-0349 for discounted phone service. Call for large‑print applications if needed. (cdss.ca.gov)
Rural single moms with limited access: If you can’t travel, use phone applications through Covered California and CalFresh by phone; ask your county to mail verification forms with prepaid envelopes; use AJCC virtual orientation. (www1.coveredca.com)
Single fathers (same resources): All programs here apply if you’re the custodial parent. Modify support through DCSS and get childcare support under CalWORKs Child Care. (childsupport.ca.gov)
Language access: Almost every agency listed offers interpreters. EDD’s unemployment line supports multiple languages; California LifeLine has language‑specific hotlines. Ask for TTY or relay as needed (711) when calling CPUC/CAB. (edd.ca.gov)

“Reality Check” Boxes — Delays, Denials, and Funding Gaps

Reality Check: First UI payments usually arrive about three weeks after filing, and mailed checks take longer than direct deposit. Certify on time and choose direct deposit in myEDD. (edd.ca.gov)

Reality Check: LIHEAP and charity funds run out. Call your local LIHEAP provider early in the month and ask 211 which energy‑assistance funds are open before you stand in line. (csd.ca.gov)

Reality Check: CalFresh expedited service is three days if you qualify, but the full case can take up to 30 days. If the clock runs out, call your worker and then request a State Hearing to move things forward. (cdss.ca.gov)

County‑Specific Variations You’ll See

Appointment styles: Some counties default to phone interviews for CalFresh and Medi‑Cal; some require in‑person signatures for CalWORKs. Check your county’s office hours via 211.
Local rent funds: CalWORKs Homeless Assistance is statewide, but several counties add moving assistance or short‑term rent grants; examples include LA County’s programs through DPSS. (dpss.lacounty.gov)
Water/utility providers: CARE/FERA is regulated by CPUC for investor‑owned utilities; municipal utilities have their own discounts. If you’re with LADWP/SMUD, ask them about customer assistance directly and still use LIHEAP for crisis help. (cpuc.ca.gov)

Steps for Rent/Eviction Prevention (Quick)

Talk to your landlord: Propose a written payment plan and show proof of pending CalWORKs HA or LIHEAP application.
Apply for cash and legal help: Contact BenefitsCal for CalWORKs; use LawHelpCA to find eviction defense clinics.
Confirm court timelines: Use your county court’s Self‑Help center to file responses on time.

Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied

Unemployment (UI): File an appeal within 30 days using DE 1000M; track the hearing and upload evidence in CUIAB myAppeal. Ask Legal Aid at Work for clinic coaching. (edd.ca.gov)
CalFresh: Call your worker, then request a state hearing via CDSS State Hearings 1-800-743-8525; keep submitting verification and ask for “aid paid pending” if allowed. (cdss.ca.gov)
Medi‑Cal: Escalate with the Medi‑Cal Ombudsman 1-888-452-8609; ask your plan for case management while appeals are pending. (dhcs.ca.gov)
CalWORKs: Request a supervisor review and then a State Hearing if urgent needs are denied (shelter, HA). Keep receipts and written denials. (cdss.ca.gov)

Quick Tables You Can Use

UI Timeline at a Glance

Step	When it happens	What you do
File UI claim:	Day 0	Apply in UI Online; save confirmation.
First certification:	Around Day 14	Certify in UI Online or at 1-866-333-4606.
First payment:	About Week 3	Watch for deposit/card in myEDD; check “Payments.”
CTB request (if training):	Before 16th paid week	Message EDD in UI Online to protect benefits. (edd.ca.gov)

2025 Key Benefit Figures

Program	2025 amount/limit	Source
UI weekly amount	$40-$ 450/week (regular UI)	EDD Eligibility (edd.ca.gov)
PFL/SDI weekly max	Up to $1,681/week (DI/PFL claims starting 2025)	EDD DI/PFL update (edd.ca.gov)
CalFresh max (HH of 4)	$975/month (FFY 2025)	USDA SNAP COLA FY 2025 (fns.usda.gov)
LIHEAP CA 2025	State received 2025 funding; call to confirm local availability	CSD Energy Bills (csd.ca.gov)
CARE electric discount	≈30–35% (gas ≈20%)	CPUC CARE (cpuc.ca.gov)

Utility Shutoff Action Map

Bill type	First call	Next program
Electric/Gas	Utility hardship line	CARE/FERA → AMP → LIHEAP (cpuc.ca.gov)
Water	Water provider	SB 998 payment plan; if blocked, CPUC/CAB 1-800-649-7570. (waterboards.ca.gov)
Phone	Carrier	California LifeLine discounts; multi‑language help available. (cpuc.ca.gov)

CalFresh Fast Track

You might qualify for expedited CalFresh if…	What to do
Very low cash on hand and little income this month	Apply via BenefitsCal and request “expedited service”; call 1‑877‑847‑3663 for help. (cdss.ca.gov)
Homeless / housing crisis	Ask your worker about homeless shelter deduction; use 211 for local food pantries.

Training & Job Hubs

Resource	Use it for
AJCC	Free job search help, resume labs, training vouchers.
CalJOBS	Job search, ETPL programs, virtual workshops.
High Road Training Partnerships	Sector training grants that may prioritize mothers returning to work. (edd.ca.gov)

FAQs (California‑specific)

How long until my first UI payment hits?
Most first payments arrive about three weeks after you apply, assuming you certify on time and there’s no identity or eligibility hold. Choose direct deposit to receive funds usually within three business days after processing; paper checks can take 7–10 days. See Step 6: Receive Your First Payment and Direct Deposit timelines. (edd.ca.gov)
What if I’m in school—will EDD deny me?
Not if you’re approved under California Training Benefits (CTB). Notify EDD in UI Online the week you start. You may get a Training Extension for extra weeks if you contact EDD before your 16th paid week. (edd.ca.gov)
Are unemployment benefits taxed in California?
They’re taxable federally but not by California. Review FTB’s unemployment page and consider federal withholding through EDD. (ftb.ca.gov)
I can’t pay the light bill. Which program first?
Enroll in CARE/FERA for a discount, then apply for AMP to forgive up to $8,000 in arrears, and contact LIHEAP at 1-866-675-6623 for crisis help. (cpuc.ca.gov)
Can CalFresh start in three days?
Yes, if you meet expedited criteria. Counties must screen your BenefitsCal application and, if you qualify, issue within three days. Call 1-877-847-3663 for help. (cdss.ca.gov)
I lost job‑based insurance—how fast can new coverage start?
Use Covered California within 60 days; coverage usually starts the first of the following month after plan selection. If income is low, enroll in Medi‑Cal any time. (coveredca.com)
How do I appeal a UI denial?
Mail or upload DE 1000M within 30 days and track your case in CUIAB myAppeal. You’ll get hearing details at least 10 days in advance. (edd.ca.gov)
Can I reduce my child support after my hours were cut?
Yes—file for a modification right away with CA Child Support Services or via your court’s Family Law Facilitator. Courts usually change support only back to your filing date. (childsupport.ca.gov)
Is there help with phone bills?
Apply for California LifeLine (1-866-272-0349) for discounted cell or home phone; multilingual hotlines are available. (cpuc.ca.gov)
What’s the fastest way to talk to someone at EDD?
Use UI Online → Contact Us first, then call EDD Customer Service 1-800-300-5616 mid‑week afternoons; avoid Monday mornings. Check your Claim Status Tracker for required actions. (edd.ca.gov)

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)

Seguro de Desempleo: Solicite por UI Online y certifique cada dos semanas; primera paga en unas tres semanas. Teléfono: 1-800-300-5616; línea automática 1-866-333-4606. (edd.ca.gov)
Seguro médico: Tras perder cobertura laboral, inscríbase por Covered California (1-800-300-1506) o Medi‑Cal (1-800-541-5555). Medi‑Cal se amplió en 2024 para adultos 26–49 sin importar estatus migratorio (según ingresos). (dhcs.ca.gov)
Comida: Aplique para CalFresh en BenefitsCal; servicio acelerado en 3 días si califica; línea 1-877-847-3663. WIC: 1-888-942-9675. (cdss.ca.gov)
Servicios públicos y teléfono: Descuentos CARE/FERA; LIHEAP 1-866-675-6623; California LifeLine 1-866-272-0349. Protecciones del agua bajo SB 998. (cpuc.ca.gov)
Apelaciones: UI: DE 1000M y CUIAB myAppeal. Ayuda legal: Legal Aid at Work (866‑864‑8208). (cuiab.ca.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

Information only: This guide provides general information for California residents and isn’t legal, tax, or medical advice. Program rules change and funding rises and falls; always confirm details with the agency via the links to EDD, CDSS, DHCS, Covered California, CSD—LIHEAP, and regulators like the CPUC or State Water Board before you decide. If you need personalized legal help, contact LawHelpCA or your local Family Law Facilitator.

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