EDD Money Network Card locked me out - can't access disability payments!

omg same thing happened 2 me last week!!! tried 2 get $ for groceries and got locked out for 3 days!!! its total bs how they expect ppl to live while waiting 4 THEIR mistakes to get fixed. i hate money network so much

Did you ever get back in? What did you end up doing for the 3 days without access to your money?

The Money Network system is definitely more problematic than the previous BofA cards. Here's what you need to know:\n\n1. The 24-hour lockout is strictly enforced and yes, attempting early will reset the timer\n2. For your immediate needs, you can still use the physical card for purchases or ATM withdrawals even while locked out of the app\n3. Once you regain access, set up ONE-TIME transfers rather than recurring transfers (recurring only works if payment amounts never change)\n4. Document everything - take screenshots of error messages and note times you called customer service\n\nFor what it's worth, I've found that using a different device (like borrowing someone's phone) sometimes lets you bypass the lockout if you're desperate.

Thanks for this detailed info. I didn't realize I could still use the physical card while locked out of the app - that helps a lot for immediate expenses. I'll definitely try the different device trick if this happens again!

This new Money Network system is a JOKE! The EDD switched from BofA to \

I've had similar experiences but actually figured out that if you call very early (like 7:01am when they open) you can usually get a rep who's more helpful. Ask specifically for a supervisor if the first rep isn't helping. They CAN escalate lockouts in emergency situations, but most reps won't tell you this unless you specifically mention you have urgent medical expenses.

Have you tried using Claimyr to reach an actual EDD representative instead of Money Network's customer service? I was having similar issues last month and couldn't get anywhere with Money Network. Used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to connect with an actual EDD rep within 5 minutes who was able to help sort out the card issue. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ?si=1hcSq3KFtCr4oAmd that shows how it works. The EDD rep I spoke with was able to put a note on my file and escalate to Money Network from their end, which seemed to carry more weight.

does that actually work tho? i thought edd would just say its money networks problem not theirs??

The key is that EDD has a dedicated liaison with Money Network for escalated cases. Regular customer service won't mention this, but EDD reps can submit priority tickets for benefit access issues. Worked for me, anyway!

There are some workarounds for the Money Network system that can help avoid these lockout issues and transfer delays:\n\n1. When setting up transfers, always choose \

This is super helpful, thank you! I had no idea about the bank teller option - that might save me for my rent payment. And the 10:30am timing tip is good to know. Really appreciate these specific workarounds!

As someone who used to work for a financial institution (not Money Network), I can tell you their security protocols are unfortunately pretty standard. The reason for the strict lockout is to prevent fraud, since disability accounts are huge targets. Quick tip: when you do get back in, immediately set up direct deposit information. This bypasses many of the Money Network issues because future payments can go directly to your bank. You'll need to update your Direct Deposit info in your SDI Online account (not in the Money Network app). The change can take 1-2 payment cycles to take effect, but worth doing ASAP.

Wait this is confusing. I thought we CAN'T set up direct deposit anymore with the new system? That's what the EDD letter said when they switched from BofA to Money Network. Are you saying we actually CAN still get direct deposit to our own banks???

You absolutely can still set up direct deposit! The confusion is because the default is the Money Network card, but in your SDI Online account (not the Money Network app), go to

My sister had the same issue w/ money network and she got so fed up she just cashed out the full amount at a check cashing place... they charged her like $45 but she said it was worth it to not deal w/ money network anymore lol

Just wanted to let you know that I spoke to an EDD supervisor last week about the Money Network issues, and they told me they're aware of all the problems people are having. Apparently they've received so many complaints that they're considering allowing direct deposit for everyone again (like it was years ago before the BofA cards). Not sure when that might happen, but it sounds like the tide is turning.\n\nFor your immediate situation, call Money Network at exactly 7:00am when they open. The wait times are much shorter, and the morning reps tend to have more authority to override lockouts in emergency situations. Specifically tell them you have medical bills and rent due - they have an emergency override protocol, but they don't advertise it.

Thank you! I'll definitely try calling right when they open tomorrow. Really hope they bring back direct deposit for everyone - that would solve so many headaches.

I'm dealing with a similar Money Network lockout situation right now and it's absolutely maddening! Been locked out for 2 days after their system glitched during a PIN reset. What really gets me is that this never happened with the old BofA system - those transfers were instant and reliable. I've been reading through all these responses and there's some really helpful info here. @Grant Vikers - I had no idea we could still set up direct deposit! I'm definitely going to look into that SDI Online account option. And @Maya Jackson - thanks for the tip about calling at 7am, I'll try that tomorrow. Has anyone had success with the emergency override that Maya mentioned? I have prescription medications I need to pick up and they're expensive without insurance coverage. Wondering if medical expenses would qualify for that emergency protocol. This whole Money Network situation feels like they're holding our own money hostage. Really hoping EDD brings back direct deposit for everyone soon!