EDD account locked out - Can't access old work email for SDI benefits. Help!

Ugh, classic EDD nonsense. I swear they make it impossible on purpose. Have you tried calling their helpline? It's a pain, but sometimes that's the only way to get things sorted out.

I had a similar issue last year. What worked for me was going to an EDD office in person. They were able to verify my identity and help me regain access to my account. It took a few hours, but it was worth it.

Have you tried resetting your password through the 'Forgot Password' option? Sometimes that can bypass the email issue.

This happened to me too! I ended up having to fax (yes, fax in 2023 🙄) a copy of my ID and a letter explaining the situation. It took a few weeks, but they eventually sorted it out for me.

I found a method to get someone on the phone. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's a video explaining it: https://youtu.be/DOLxZQb92wM

Here's what you need to do: 1. Gather all your identification documents (driver's license, social security card, etc.) 2. Write a detailed letter explaining your situation, including: - Your full name and contact information - Your driver's license number - The email address you used for your old account - A brief explanation of why you can't access that email - Request to update your email address and regain access to your account 3. Make copies of your ID documents and letter 4. Mail everything to: Employment Development Department PO Box 826880 Sacramento, CA 94280-0001 Make sure to send it certified mail so you can track it. It might take a few weeks, but this method usually works. While you're waiting, keep trying to call their support line. If you get through, explain that you've mailed in your documents and ask if they can expedite the process. Good luck!

have u tried contacting ur old employer? maybe they can help u access the old email account

This whole system is a joke. We pay taxes for this?? 🤦‍♂️

Hey OP, just wondering - have you tried creating a new account with a different email? Sometimes that works if your old account has been inactive for a while.

I went through this exact same situation last year! What finally worked for me was using the ID.me verification process. Go to the EDD website and look for the "Verify Identity" option - it should let you verify who you are using your phone and ID, then you can update your email address associated with the account. It took about 30 minutes to complete the verification, but once I did that, I was able to reset my password and change my email to one I could actually access. Way easier than waiting on hold for hours or mailing documents. Hope this helps!