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

I've had this exact issue before! Usually when you get the "technical issue" message at a BOA ATM, it's either the machine is temporarily out of cash or there's a connection problem with the card network. Since there's only one BOA in your town, I'd suggest trying a different bank's ATM that accepts your card (most unemployment debit cards work at multiple ATM networks). You can also try going inside the bank branch when they're open - the tellers can usually do a manual withdrawal even when the ATM is having issues. If it keeps happening, definitely call the customer service number on the back of your card to make sure there aren't any holds or restrictions on your account.

I'm dealing with a similar situation at my job right now! It's so frustrating when you're clearly earning less than normal but still just over that threshold. One thing I learned is that you should definitely appeal if you think EDD made an error in calculating your earnings - sometimes they miscalculate wages or don't account for things properly. But from what you're describing, it sounds like they calculated it correctly, just that the formula isn't very forgiving for people in our situation. Keep your head up and definitely keep certifying like others said - if your hours drop even a little bit more you'll start getting some benefits. The whole system really doesn't account for how expensive it is to live in California!

I'm going through almost the exact same thing right now! I work at a fulfillment center and they've been cutting everyone's hours too. It's so frustrating because you're clearly making less money than usual but still not qualifying for any help. I didn't realize how the 25% rule worked until reading this thread - that explains why I got nothing last week even though I lost two full shifts. The math is pretty harsh when you think about it. Like you said, our bills don't care that we're missing hours! I'm going to keep certifying too and hopefully if they cut us back even more I'll start getting something. This whole situation with reduced hours seems to be happening everywhere right now. Good luck with your claim!

This whole thread is a perfect example of how broken the EDD communication system is. I went through this exact same nightmare 3 months ago and it's clear nothing has changed. The fact that so many people are confused about the PIN creation process shows that EDD needs to completely rewrite their instructions. It shouldn't take a Reddit-style community thread to figure out basic card activation! For anyone still struggling: call Money Network customer service at 1-866-320-8699, tell them you're trying to activate your EDD card and need help creating your PIN. Don't waste time with the automated system - go straight to a human. And definitely set up direct deposit ASAP so you never have to deal with this card nonsense again.

Just wanted to chime in as someone who went through this same ordeal a few weeks ago. The PIN creation process is definitely the most confusing part of getting your EDD benefits card working. What helped me was calling the Money Network customer service line during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening) when wait times are shorter. The rep I spoke with explained that the "enter your PIN" prompt during activation is actually asking you to CREATE a new 4-digit PIN right then and there - it's not looking for an existing one. Once I understood that, the whole process took about 5 minutes. Also, pro tip: write down your PIN immediately and store it somewhere safe! I almost forgot mine the next day when I went to use the card. The direct deposit suggestion from others here is spot on too - I switched to that for my next payment and it's so much faster than waiting for the card to be loaded.

i heard theres a new program for restaurant workers who lost jobs bc of minimum wage increases but my cousin applied and never got approved so maybe its not real

Just wanted to add that while the COVID programs are definitely gone, there are still some other resources that might help supplement your unemployment benefits. Look into CalFresh (food stamps) and your local food banks - many don't have strict income requirements right now. Also check if your county has emergency rental assistance programs. I know LA County and some others still have funds available for people who recently became unemployed. It won't replace those pandemic benefit amounts, but every little bit helps when you're trying to cover $2,100 rent on regular UI. Hang in there!

I went through this exact same process about 6 months ago and completely understand your anxiety! When I got that "something that can make you ineligible" message after reporting my $4,800 severance, I was convinced I'd somehow messed up my claim. But it really is just standard procedure when any severance is reported - their system automatically triggers the interview requirement. During my phone interview, the EDD representative was actually pretty straightforward and professional. They asked: 1) Why I was separated from work (layoff vs. firing vs. quitting), 2) Whether my severance was paid as a lump sum or ongoing payments, 3) If there were any work restrictions in my severance agreement, and 4) Whether I was available for full-time work and actively job searching. The whole interview took about 20 minutes, and I had my benefits approved within 2 business days afterward. My biggest advice is to have your termination letter and severance agreement documents ready to reference, and keep your answers clear and direct. Since you were laid off due to position elimination and received a lump sum payment, you should be in good shape. The fact that you reported everything honestly from the start definitely works in your favor!

I'm a former EDD claims specialist and can confirm that reporting severance automatically triggers an eligibility interview - it's completely normal and doesn't mean you did anything wrong. The interview is mainly to distinguish between severance that counts as "wages" (which could delay benefits) versus a lump sum payment for past service (which typically doesn't affect eligibility). Since you mentioned your position was eliminated and you received a one-time payment, you should be fine. The key things they'll verify: your separation was involuntary, the severance structure, and that you're available for work. Have your layoff documentation ready and answer their questions directly without over-explaining. Most people in your situation get approved within a few days after the interview. You did the right thing by reporting everything honestly!