This happened to me last month, and I found out it was because someone had attempted to access my UI Online account from another state. EDD automatically froze my card as a precaution. I had to verify my identity again through ID.me and update my password. After that, they continued sending paper checks for about 3 weeks before reactivating my card. The checks weren't too delayed - they came about 5-7 days after certification. Just make sure your mailing address is correct in UI Online!

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! My Money Network card was frozen three days ago with no warning. I found out when I tried to buy groceries and the transaction was declined - so embarrassing. When I finally got through to EDD yesterday (took 6 hours of calling), they said it's part of a "routine security review" but couldn't give me any details about what triggered it or how long it would take. They just said I'd get paper checks "soon." This is so stressful because I have rent due next week and I'm a single mom with two kids. Has anyone had success getting an emergency payment while waiting for this to be resolved? I'm really worried about making ends meet with these delays.

Update: I submitted my application yesterday and clearly stated that I have no written guarantee of future work and that my assignments are day-to-day with varying hours. Now I'm just waiting to see what happens. Thanks everyone for the advice!

I hope it works out for you! As someone who's been through the EDD process multiple times, I'd suggest keeping detailed records of your application and any correspondence you receive. If they initially deny you, don't give up - the appeals process can sometimes work in favor of substitutes who can clearly demonstrate they have no guaranteed work. Also, make sure you're continuing to look for work during the summer (and document your job search) since that's a requirement for receiving benefits. The retail job you mentioned from 14 months ago might actually help your case if it falls within your base period. Keep us posted on what happens!

I think the most important thing here is your intention wasn't to defraud the system. You made an honest mistake that you're trying to correct. For such a small amount, adding it to your next certification with a clear explanation is reasonable. EDD is primarily concerned with intentional misrepresentation, not small calculation errors.

I went through something similar a few months ago! Made the same net vs gross mistake on a $45 payment. I was stressed about it for days, but I ended up just adding the difference to my next certification with a note explaining the correction. No issues at all - my payments continued normally and I never heard anything back about it. The key is being proactive about fixing it rather than hoping it goes unnoticed. Your approach of adding the $10 difference with an explanation on your next cert is solid. Just be clear and honest in your notes about what happened. EDD seems to appreciate when people catch and correct their own mistakes quickly.

Thank you for these insights! The judge did ask me if I had received any written warnings, and I was able to honestly say no. It sounds like that was an important point. I'll keep checking my UI Online account for updates after I get the decision letter.

I'm going through something similar right now! My employer also didn't show up to my appeal hearing last week. The judge told me that while it's a good sign when employers don't participate, she still had to evaluate my case based on the evidence presented. Like you, I was terminated for alleged "performance issues" but never received any formal write-ups or improvement plans. The judge seemed particularly interested in that detail when I mentioned it. I'm still waiting for my decision too - it's nerve-wracking! From what I've read in these comments, it sounds like we both have decent chances since our employers didn't bother to present their side. Fingers crossed for both of us! How long did your hearing actually take? Mine was only about 20 minutes.

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

You can find your EDD customer account number in several places: 1) On any previous correspondence from EDD (letters, notices, or emails), 2) On your UI Online account - log in at edd.ca.gov and it should display your account number, 3) On your EDD debit card if you have one, or 4) Call EDD customer service at 1-800-300-5616 (though wait times can be long). If you can't access UI Online and don't have any paperwork, you may need to call or visit a local EDD office with your ID and Social Security card to verify your identity and get your account number.