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Just to add one important detail - make sure you activate your card as soon as you receive it by calling the number on the sticker. You'll need to create a PIN. Also, Money Network now has an app you can download to manage your funds, check balances, and set up alerts for deposits. Much easier than their website in my experience.
One thing I don't see mentioned here - once you get your card, you can also set up direct deposit to your regular bank account instead of waiting for the card each time. You just need to log into your UI Online account and go to the "Profile" section to add your bank info. Takes about 1-2 business cycles to take effect, but then your payments go straight to your bank instead of the prepaid card. Much more convenient if you prefer using your own bank!
I'm dealing with a similar situation right now - won my appeal in November but still waiting for my federal refund from EDD's tax intercept. Reading through all these responses gives me hope that there's actually a path forward! I had no idea about the BOCS department or the specific process with the Treasury Offset Program. I've been calling the regular EDD number like an idiot for months. One thing I wanted to add - when I spoke to someone at the IRS about this last month, they told me that even when EDD submits the reversal file, the IRS still needs 6-8 weeks to process it on their end. So even after EDD does their part, there's still more waiting. Just wanted to mention that so you don't get discouraged if it takes a bit longer even after you get confirmation from BOCS that they've submitted everything. Good luck with that Collections Division number tomorrow! I'm going to try calling them too based on everyone's advice here.
Thanks for sharing your experience and that additional timeline info about the IRS processing! It's frustrating but good to know there's still 6-8 weeks even after EDD does their part - at least I can set realistic expectations. It's crazy how many of us are dealing with this same issue. The fact that you've been waiting since November shows this really is a widespread problem with their system. Definitely try that Collections Division number - sounds like multiple people here have had success with that approach. Hoping we both get our money back soon!
This is incredibly frustrating and unfortunately all too common with EDD's tax intercept system. Nine months is absolutely excessive for a federal refund return after winning an appeal. Based on what others have shared here, I'd recommend trying multiple approaches simultaneously: 1. Call the BOCS (Benefit Overpayment Collection Section) directly at 916-464-2669 as mentioned above 2. Request the specific "Notice of Overpayment Cancellation" document 3. File a formal complaint with EDD citing the excessive delay beyond statutory requirements 4. Contact your state assembly member's office - they often have EDD liaisons who can expedite these issues Also consider reaching out to your local media consumer protection segments. Sometimes public pressure helps move these cases along faster. The fact that you received your state refund but not federal shows EDD completed part of the process but failed to properly notify the Treasury Offset Program. Document every call, get names and confirmation numbers, and don't let them brush you off with "be patient." You've been more than patient enough! Keep us posted on your progress - your experience could help others in similar situations.
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
This is really helpful advice! I've been struggling to get through to EDD for weeks. Just to clarify - when you click and say "never received a call," do you go through the automated phone system first or is there a specific online option you're referring to? Thanks for sharing this tip!
I'm also curious about this! I've been trying to reach EDD for over a month with no luck. @abc2b8 could you provide a bit more detail about the exact steps? Is this through the EDD website's contact form or through the phone system? Any additional guidance would be incredibly helpful - I'm getting pretty desperate at this point!
Mason, I just wanted to jump in here as someone who works in employment law - your situation is actually a perfect example of why the "good cause quit" provision exists in the first place! Employers delaying start dates by 7+ weeks after someone has already resigned is unfortunately more common than it should be, and California law recognizes that employees shouldn't be penalized for these circumstances beyond their control. One thing I'd emphasize that others have touched on - when you file your claim, make it crystal clear that the delay was entirely unexpected and that you would never have quit your previous job if you had known about this timeline change. The fact that your original start date was September 6th and you quit on August 30th shows you were planning for immediate transition, which strengthens your case significantly. Also, since you mentioned this is your first time filing for unemployment, don't be intimidated by the process. EDD representatives are used to these types of cases and generally handle them fairly when the documentation is clear. Your situation has all the right elements: definite job offer, specific start date, unexpected employer-caused delay, and proper documentation. The community has given you excellent advice here - you're in great hands! Looking forward to hearing about your successful claim approval.
This perspective from someone who works in employment law is incredibly reassuring! It's so validating to hear that my situation is exactly what the "good cause quit" provision was designed to protect against. You're absolutely right that the timing - quitting on August 30th for a September 6th start - clearly shows I was planning for an immediate transition with no gap in employment. I really appreciate you emphasizing that EDD representatives handle these cases regularly and fairly when the documentation is solid. As a first-time filer, I was definitely feeling intimidated by the whole process, but hearing from you and everyone else here has given me so much confidence that I'm approaching this the right way. The point about making it crystal clear that the delay was completely unexpected is crucial - I'll make sure to emphasize in my application and during any interviews that I absolutely would never have quit if I had any indication this delay was coming. Thank you for the legal perspective and the encouragement! It means a lot to know I have all the right elements for a strong case.
Mason, you've gotten such comprehensive advice here! As someone who just went through the EDD process myself (different situation, but similar timeline), I wanted to add that you should also keep a detailed log of all your interactions with EDD - dates you called, who you spoke with, reference numbers, etc. This was invaluable when I had to follow up on my case. One thing that really helped me was preparing a brief "elevator pitch" version of my situation that I could deliver clearly and concisely during phone calls. Something like: "I quit my job on August 30th solely because I had a confirmed job offer starting September 6th. My new employer unexpectedly delayed my start date to October 24th due to project timeline changes. I have all documentation including the original offer letter and delay notification." Having this practiced made every conversation with EDD much smoother. Also, once you get your claim established, set up text alerts through UI Online if you haven't already. They'll notify you immediately if there are any updates or if additional documentation is needed. The faster you can respond to any requests, the smoother the process will go. You're being incredibly thorough and proactive about this whole situation. With your documentation and everyone's great advice here, I'm confident you'll get approved. Best of luck!
Mikayla Davison
Great to hear you got it resolved! Just a heads up - while you're waiting for your replacement card, you can also use the Money Network mobile app to check your balance and transaction history. And if you need to access funds before the new card arrives, you can transfer money from your Money Network account to your bank account online (though there might be a small fee). The direct deposit switch was smart - no more worrying about lost cards!
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Arjun Patel
•Thanks for mentioning the mobile app! I completely forgot about that option. I just downloaded it and was able to check my account balance. You're right about the transfer fees though - looks like it's $1.50 to transfer to my bank account, but that's totally worth it to access my funds while waiting for the replacement card. The direct deposit setup should save me a lot of headaches going forward!
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NebulaNinja
Just wanted to add that if you're still having trouble getting through to Money Network customer service, try pressing "0" multiple times during the automated menu - sometimes that will connect you directly to a representative. Also, I've found that calling on weekdays around 2-3 PM Pacific tends to have shorter wait times than mornings or evenings. And definitely keep that direct deposit setup - I switched over last year after losing my card and it's been so much more convenient!
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