File for unemployment quickly and easily online. Register and create an account with myEDD.You must complete and return the Application for Overpayment Waiver (DE 1446UI) to be considered for a waiver. If you qualify for a fee waiver, file the Request to Waive Fees (FW-001) and Order on Court Fee Waiver along with the petition. Fill out the Notice to Court of Improved Financial Situation or Settlement (FW-010) and file it with the court. To receive unemployment insurance benefits, you need to file a claim with the unemployment insurance program in the state where you worked. Applying for unemployment insurance in California can be confusing, but it doesn't have to be! You can file for unemployment benefits in California via a phone call, mail, or on the EDD website. EDD says "it takes at least three weeks to process a claim for unemployment benefits and issue payment to most eligible workers. If you have lost work or have had your hours reduced we encourage you to apply for Employment Development Department (EDD) Unemployment Insurance (UI).