Have you checked if your browser is up to date? Sometimes outdated browsers don't work properly with government sites. Also make sure you're not using any auto-fill features as those can cause conflicts with the EDD site's security features. I've been on unemployment twice in the past three years and both times had technical issues that were resolved by updating my browser and disabling browser extensions. Also worth noting - if you can't get it working online, you can request a paper application by mail, though obviously that will take longer to process.

UPDATE: You all are amazing! I tried a combination of suggestions - disabled my VPN, cleared all cookies, turned off browser extensions, and waited until 1am to try again. It finally worked! Got all the way through the application process and received my confirmation number. Now fingers crossed the claim gets processed quickly. Thanks to everyone for the help!

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! Just certified for my first two weeks yesterday and had that same panic moment of "wait, how do I actually get my money??" Thank you all for the detailed responses - this is so helpful. I had no idea about the plain white envelope looking like junk mail, definitely would have tossed it. Going to sign up for that USPS informed delivery service right now and also try creating the Money Network account early like Zara suggested. It's crazy how they don't explain any of this upfront when you're already stressed about being unemployed. Really glad I found this thread!

I'm in the exact same boat as you! Just certified my first two weeks three days ago and have been anxiously checking the mail every day wondering where my payment is. Reading through all these responses has been such a relief - I had no idea about the Money Network card system or that it takes up to 10 business days. I was starting to panic thinking I did something wrong during certification. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences and timelines. Going to set up that USPS informed delivery today and try creating the Money Network account early like Zara mentioned. It's wild that EDD doesn't send some kind of "here's what happens next" email after your first certification gets approved. At least now I know to look for that plain white envelope from Indianapolis!

I went through this exact same nightmare 3 months ago! The address verification issue is SO common - it's like their system can't handle any formatting that's not exactly perfect. What really helped me was keeping a detailed log of every call I made (date, time, what they told me) because different reps sometimes give conflicting info. Also, once you get your new card, set up text alerts immediately through the Money Network app so you'll know the second any payments hit your account. The whole system is frustrating but you're definitely not alone in dealing with this!

This thread has been so helpful to read through! I'm dealing with a similar situation right now - my EDD payments show as paid but I never received my Money Network card after 3 weeks. Based on what everyone shared here, it sounds like the address verification issues are really common. I'm going to double-check my address formatting in UI Online and then try to get through to EDD to see if there's a problem with my card issuance. It's reassuring to know that others have successfully resolved this, even though it's incredibly stressful when you need the money. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences and solutions!

Since this question has been answered, I want to add some general info that might help others: 1. EDD Money Network card: This is a regular Visa debit card for unemployment benefits. No purchase restrictions, can be used anywhere Visa is accepted or at ATMs. 2. EBT/CalFresh card: This has the Food/Cash benefit options. Food benefits can ONLY be used for eligible food items. The Cash option is ONLY available if you're enrolled in cash assistance programs like CalWORKs. 3. The two systems are completely separate. Your unemployment benefits never appear on your EBT card, and your food benefits never appear on your EDD card. Hope this helps others who might be navigating multiple benefit programs!

This is such a common mix-up! I work with folks applying for benefits and see this confusion all the time. You're definitely looking at your EBT/CalFresh card, not your EDD unemployment card. Just to add to what others have said - if you do have both cards, here are some quick ways to tell them apart: - EDD Money Network card: Usually says "Money Network" and has unemployment benefit funds, works like any debit card - EBT card: Says "Golden State Advantage" or similar, has the food/cash benefit options you described The EDD card has no spending restrictions - you can buy groceries, gas, pay bills, whatever you need. The EBT card is specifically for food purchases (and cash benefits only if you qualify for programs like CalWORKs). Glad you got it sorted out! It's totally normal to be confused when you're dealing with multiple benefit programs.

This happens to me EVERY TIME I certify at midnight! The system gets overloaded with everyone certifying at the same time. I started waiting until Sunday afternoon to certify and haven't had a pending issue since. Weird but it works for me!

UPDATE: My payment just switched from pending to paid this morning! Looks like it was just a processing delay like some of you mentioned. Thanks for all the advice and reassurance. I'll still attend my job search workshop next week of course.