Update after reading all responses: Since you've already filed the fraud report with EDD and contacted credit bureaus, your next steps should be: 1. File the FTC report at identitytheft.gov (this is federally required for identity theft) 2. Contact the IRS Identity Protection Unit at 800-908-4490 3. Begin checking your mail carefully for any 1099-G tax forms from EDD 4. Use Claimyr or similar service to reach a live EDD agent to flag your account 5. Set up account notifications for any financial accounts you have Identity theft recovery is unfortunately a marathon, not a sprint. The sooner you implement protective measures, the better.

I'm so sorry you're going through this! I just went through something similar a few months ago. One thing I didn't see mentioned yet - make sure to check if your state offers a Security Freeze through the DMV. In California, someone can use your stolen info to get a duplicate driver's license, which then gives them more credibility when applying for benefits or other services. Also, when you call that IRS Identity Protection Unit number that Malik mentioned, ask them about getting an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). It's an extra layer of security for your tax filings that prevents fraudsters from filing fake returns in your name. The whole process is exhausting and feels unfair, but hang in there. Most people I know who dealt with EDD fraud eventually got it resolved, it just takes way longer than it should. Keep pushing and don't let them put you off!

I went through this exact same nightmare last month! What finally worked for me was calling the 1-800-300-5616 number repeatedly using redial until I got through (took about 200+ attempts over 3 days). When I finally got a human, they were able to look up my account number using my SSN and date of birth. Another trick - try calling right at 8am when they open, that's when you have the best shot. Also keep any old benefit payment stubs or mail from EDD as backup - your account number is usually printed on those documents. Don't give up, it's incredibly frustrating but you'll get there!

Another option that worked for me - try using the EDD's "Ask EDD" feature on their website. I know it sounds basic, but I submitted a request explaining I lost my account number and needed help recovering it. They actually responded within a week with instructions on how to verify my identity and get my account number back. It's not as fast as calling, but it's way less stressful than sitting on hold for hours. Also, if you have any old tax documents (like your 1099-G from previous years), your account number might be on there too. Worth checking!

One more important thing: if you do file an interstate claim through California, make sure to follow up if you don't hear anything after 2-3 weeks. Interstate claims often get stuck in processing because the two states have to communicate with each other. Sometimes you need to call and give them a nudge to check on the status. Just be persistent!

Just want to add that you should also gather all your documentation before filing - pay stubs from Iowa, your separation notice/termination letter, and any correspondence about the layoff. Interstate claims require more documentation than regular claims, and having everything ready upfront will help speed up the process. Also, if you had any vacation pay or severance from your Iowa employer, make sure to report that accurately as it could affect when your benefits start. Good luck with your claim!

my friend had this happen and she was NEVER PAID for her last 2 weeks!!! she called and called and eventually gave up because she started her new job and didnt have time to waste on hold anymore. EDD just STOLE her money and there was nothing she could do!!! hope you have better luck but dont hold your breath!!!

I went through this exact same situation about 6 months ago when I started my new job. The pending status is definitely normal - it's EDD's way of making sure everything checks out before they issue your final payment. In my case, it took about 12 days from certification to when the payment finally showed as "paid" in my account. A few tips that might help: Keep checking your UI Online account daily because sometimes the status changes without any notification. Also, if you have any documentation from your new employer (like your start date confirmation or first pay stub), keep those handy in case EDD asks for additional verification. The good news is that once it processes, you should get the full amount you're entitled to. For me, the first week (no work) came through at full benefit amount, and the second week was a partial payment based on my earnings that week. Hang in there - it's frustrating but the money will come through!

For everyone having this issue, here's the process EDD follows for security reasons: 1. Phone number changes MUST be verified by a representative (this is to prevent fraud) 2. You will need to provide multiple forms of identity verification 3. The representative needs to manually override the system security block 4. Once updated, you should receive an email confirmation (if you have email on file) 5. System updates generally process overnight, so you should be able to log in the next day If you need to certify urgently and can't access your account, ask the representative to note this in your file. In some cases, they can process your certification over the phone or provide a one-time override code to access your account. Also, while you're talking to them, make sure to verify ALL your contact information is current - not just your phone number but also mailing address and email.

Glad to hear you got it resolved! For anyone else reading this thread who might face similar issues in the future, here are a few additional tips: 1) Always update your contact info with EDD BEFORE changing phone carriers if possible, 2) Keep your old phone active for at least a week after switching to handle any lingering 2FA issues with various accounts, and 3) Consider adding an email address as a backup recovery method in your EDD account settings once you regain access. Phone number changes are one of the most common reasons people get locked out of their accounts, so planning ahead can save a lot of stress!