LAS–ELC’s Claims Project works to ensure that all workers can access Unemployment Insurance benefits when they need them.
Unemployment insurance benefits are an important “safety net” for many workers who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own. Benefits are provided through the California Employment Development Department and appeals are handled by the California Unemployment Insurance Appeals Board. Whether at the EDD or the CUIAB, workers who are aware of their rights to unemployment insurance benefits are more easily able to access these benefits.
The project’s goal is to educate workers about their rights to receive unemployment insurance. We provide fact sheets, self-help guides, presentations, and legal advice, all to help workers advocate on their own behalf at the EDD or CUIAB. When necessary, LAS–ELC may represent workers directly in their unemployment insurance appeals.
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The tools we use include:
Legal help:
LAS–ELC provides basic advice and counsel to workers to help them enforce their rights to unemployment insurance.
Administrative advocacy:
LAS–ELC periodically represents workers who have pending claims and hearings with the CUIAB.
Public education and outreach:
LAS–ELC conducts trainings and presentations for workers, community advocates, and legal aid and pro bono attorneys.
Technical assistance:
LAS–ELC provides technical assistance and self-help tools, such as fact sheets and self-help materials, and limited representation to persons in situations where proper guidance to employers and other entities may help resolve the problem.
Collaboration:
LAS–ELC collaborates with a range of advocates and communities to identify and strengthen the common interests of persons with disabilities, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people, women, people of color, immigrants, language minorities, labor, and working people with caretaking obligations.