I just wanted to add another perspective from someone who's been through this process recently. I missed my EDD appeal hearing about 3 months ago due to never receiving the notice, and like everyone here, I was absolutely panicking about the overpayment ($11,200 in my case). What really helped me was calling the Appeals office multiple times to make sure they had all my current contact information on file - phone, email, AND mailing address. Turns out they had my old email from 2 years ago! I also asked them to send any future correspondence via email AND regular mail to be extra sure. When I filed my Request to Reopen, I included a sworn declaration (you can find templates online) stating under penalty of perjury that I never received the hearing notice. This seemed to carry more weight than just a regular letter. The judge approved my request in about 12 days, which was faster than the 20 days they quoted me. My new hearing is actually scheduled for next week, so I can't report on the final outcome yet, but the process of getting the reopening approved went much smoother than I expected. Don't lose hope - the system may be frustrating but there are definitely ways to work through it when you're persistent and thorough with documentation. Hang in there everyone! We've got this! 💪

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this nightmare situation! I went through something very similar about 6 months ago and the stress was absolutely overwhelming. Like you, I never received the actual hearing notice - just the acknowledgment letter saying they got my appeal. Here's what worked for me: I immediately filed a Request to Reopen (you have 20 days from the decision date) and included a very detailed explanation about never receiving the notice. I also gathered any evidence I could - USPS tracking info, screenshots of my UI Online account showing my correct address, even a statement from my mail carrier about delivery issues in my area during that time period. The most important thing is acting fast and being thorough with your documentation. The judges do understand that EDD has serious mail delivery problems - I've read that they see these missed notice cases constantly. My Request to Reopen was approved in about 15 days, and my new hearing was scheduled 5 weeks later. I know $9,500 feels insurmountable right now, but don't give up! You're taking all the right steps by filing that request immediately. The fact that you were legitimately laid off and collected benefits according to the rules at the time should work in your favor. Keep us posted on how it goes - we're all rooting for you!

I'm also new to unemployment and just wanted to say thanks to everyone for explaining this so clearly! One thing I'm wondering about - does the waiting period week count toward the total number of weeks you can receive benefits? Like if I'm eligible for 26 weeks of unemployment, does that mean I actually only get 25 paid weeks because of the waiting period? Or do I still get the full 26 paid weeks, just shifted by one week like someone mentioned earlier?

Hey @Cassandra Moon! I just went through this same situation a few months ago when I got laid off from my tech job. The waiting period is definitely one of those things EDD doesn't explain well upfront. Just want to add a couple practical tips that helped me: First, even though you won't get paid for the waiting week, treat it like any other week - do your job searches, keep records, and be available for work. I made the mistake of thinking it didn't "count" and almost had issues later. Second, while you're waiting for benefits to start, check if you qualify for any local food banks or emergency assistance programs. Many cities have programs specifically for people between jobs that can help bridge the gap during that first unpaid week. The waiting period really is frustrating when you're trying to budget, but once you get through it the payments come pretty regularly (usually within 1-2 business days of certification if you have direct deposit). You've got this!

I'm on day 7 since my claim was approved and this thread is exactly what I needed to find! The waiting is so stressful when you have bills due and no idea when the card will actually show up. I had no clue about calling Bank of America directly - definitely trying that 1-866-692-9374 number tomorrow to see if mine has been mailed yet. Also signing up for USPS Informed Delivery right now after seeing everyone rave about it. It's wild how much the timeline varies but reading everyone's experiences makes me feel way less alone in this. The uncertainty is honestly worse than the actual waiting sometimes! Thanks to everyone for sharing all these helpful tips - this community is amazing 🙏

I'm on day 4 since my claim was approved and already starting to feel anxious about when my card will arrive! This thread has been incredibly helpful - I had no idea about calling Bank of America directly at 1-866-692-9374 or setting up USPS Informed Delivery. I'm definitely going to try both of those tricks this week. It's both comforting and nerve-wracking to see how much the timeline varies for everyone - some get theirs in 7-10 days while others wait over a month. At least knowing there are ways to actually track the process makes me feel less helpless. The uncertainty is definitely the hardest part when you're depending on those funds! Thanks to everyone for sharing their experiences and all the practical tips 🙏

I just wanted to add another option that helped me when I had this same Money Network card issue a few months back. If you're still having trouble getting through using all the great methods everyone has shared, you can also try calling very early in the morning (like 7:00-7:30 AM Pacific) or late in the evening (after 7:00 PM). I know their official hours are different, but I've actually gotten through to representatives during these "off hours" when the call volume is much lower. Also, one thing I learned the hard way - if your card gets blocked multiple times, they might require you to go through additional verification steps that can only be done over the phone (not through chat or text). So while the live chat and SMS options are great for simple blocks, more complex security holds usually need phone resolution. But definitely try those first since they're faster! Once you get this sorted, I'd also recommend calling Money Network to set up account alerts so you get notified immediately if your card gets flagged again. That way you can address it right away instead of finding out when you're trying to pay for something important. Good luck - this thread has so many helpful tips, I'm sure you'll get it resolved soon!

I just wanted to jump in as someone who recently dealt with this exact same Money Network card nightmare! Reading through all these responses brought back so many frustrating memories, but I'm amazed at how helpful this community has been with sharing actual solutions. One thing I'd add that hasn't been mentioned yet - if you're having trouble with the Money Network app or website not letting you log in (which you mentioned), try clearing your browser cache/cookies or deleting and reinstalling the app. Sometimes when cards get flagged, it can mess with your online account access too. I had to do this before I could even see my balance or try any of the self-service options people mentioned. Also, if you end up needing emergency cash while waiting to resolve this, some credit unions and banks will do small emergency loans or cash advances if you can show proof of your pending unemployment benefits. It's not ideal since there might be fees, but it could help with rent if the Money Network resolution takes longer than expected. Fingers crossed that one of the methods shared here works for you quickly! The combination of live chat, SMS support, specific phone sequences, and calling during off-hours should definitely get you to a solution. And yes - switch to direct deposit as soon as humanly possible! This Money Network card system is clearly broken and causes way too much stress for people who are already dealing with unemployment challenges.

To all those having trouble reaching a human at California Unemployment. I just ran across this video that gave me a shortcut to reach a human. Hope it helps! https://youtu.be/Ize0EkN4HDI

Hey! That message means they've approved your unemployment application and you'll be getting your EDD debit card (Bank of America card) in the mail soon. This is the card they'll use to deposit your unemployment payments. It usually takes about 7-10 business days to arrive after you see that message. Once you get it, you'll need to activate it and then you should start seeing your payments deposited. Make sure to keep an eye on your mail and also check your EDD account online for any updates on payment dates!