Just a quick update since I see others have answered most of your questions - once you get your Money Network card, I recommend immediately setting up account alerts. There have been some fraud issues with these cards, so it's best to get text or email notifications for any transactions. Better safe than sorry!

I went through this exact same confusion when I first filed! It's totally normal and actually a good sign - when History shows "paid" it means EDD has processed and approved your payment. The Claims section just takes longer to update, usually 24-72 hours behind. Since this is your first payment, your Money Network card is definitely being mailed to you automatically. No action needed on your part! Just keep checking your mailbox over the next 7-10 business days. The card comes in a very plain white envelope that honestly looks like junk mail, so don't accidentally throw it away. Once it arrives, you'll call the number on it to activate and set up your PIN. Hang in there - the hardest part is over!

Update: I finally got through to EDD after trying for two days (thanks to everyone who suggested ways to contact them). The rep confirmed what you all said - my benefits are lower because my earnings were concentrated in just two quarters. She checked my reported wages and everything was correct. I'm disappointed but at least I understand it now. Going to adjust my budget and step up my job search. Thanks everyone for your help explaining this!

I went through something similar when I filed my claim last year. The whole base period calculation really caught me off guard too. One thing that helped me was requesting a detailed breakdown of my base period wages from EDD - they can send you a form that shows exactly which quarters and earnings they used. Sometimes there are reporting delays from employers that can affect your calculation. Also, if you had any unreported tips, freelance work, or side income during your base period, you might be able to add those to increase your claim balance. It's worth double-checking everything since even small wage adjustments can add a few extra weeks to your benefits.

Quick tip: Check your spam folder too. Sometimes EDD emails end up there. But regardless, you should always certify every two weeks on your regular schedule, typically Sunday. Your certification date should be visible on your UI Online homepage. After you certify, payments usually process within 24-48 hours if there are no issues with your claim.

Glad you got it sorted out! This is such a common issue with EDD - their notification system is unreliable at best. For anyone else reading this, I'd recommend setting up a calendar reminder every two weeks on your certification day. Also, if you're using the EDD mobile app, it sometimes shows certification weeks available even when the website doesn't send notifications. The key is being proactive rather than waiting for EDD to tell you when it's time to certify.

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

I've been dealing with a similar situation for weeks now. That message usually means they need additional documentation or there's a discrepancy they need to review. In my experience, you'll likely need to call them directly to find out exactly what they need. The wait times are brutal, but it's often the only way to get specific information about your case. Have you tried calling the technical support line? Sometimes they can at least tell you what documents might be missing from your file. Don't give up - many of us have gotten through this process, it just takes persistence.

One last thing to keep in mind: if you don't qualify for any extensions, you might be eligible to open a new claim after 12 months from the start date of your original claim, assuming you've earned enough wages in the meantime. This isn't an extension but a completely new benefit year. Also, while this isn't widely known, if your industry has been affected by any trade agreements, you might qualify for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA), which provides additional benefits and training opportunities. Good luck with your call tomorrow - hope you get through and receive good news about the training extension!

@Hugo Kass - I just went through this exact situation in January! A few additional tips that might help: 1) When you call EDD, try calling right at 8am when they open - I had better luck getting through then. 2) If you do qualify for the training extension, ask about "bridge benefits" - some people don't know EDD can sometimes provide a small payment while your TE application is being processed. 3) For immediate help with rent, check if your county has emergency rental assistance programs - many still have COVID relief funds available. 4) Look into your local One-Stop Career Centers (America's Job Center) - they often have emergency assistance and can help you navigate the training programs. Don't give up, there are more options than it initially seems!