Associate faculty may file for unemployment during summer and winter breaks if they are not employed with the district. The easiest way to to file for unemployment benefits is to do so online at the Employment Development Department (EDD): http://www.edd.ca.gov/ Filing must be done in a timely manner. The EDD will often deny late filing applications.

The right to collect unemployment is based on an Appellate Court decision called Cervisis et al vs. Unemployment Insurance Appeal Board. Because associate faculty contracts are "contingent upon adequate class enrollment and funding," the court concluded that the assignments are not reasonable assurance of employment. Therefore, when asked if you have a guarantee of work, indicate "no." Your contract is not a guarantee of employment. Also, mark that your union does not look for work for you. If your claim is denied, you should file an appeal and cite the appellate court decision.