Due to the COVID situation, I was working remotely from home and working part time. But since business has slowed down, and I am filed under a 1099, I was wondering if I am able to apply for unemployment benefits? If so, will this affect my employer at all? And does he need to be informed?
There are exceptions to the usual rules in response to covid-19. I'm not a labor law attorney but I can at least point you to some good information. Go to edd.ca.gov for official summaries and guidance!
Generally, to be eligible you had to have been an employee over the last 5 to 18 months. If not, independent contractors do not qualify for unemployment benefits. You should at least try to apply, be truthful, and the worst-case scenario is that they reject your claim for benefits. Goodluck.
