Update to my previous comment: I just used the 1-800-300-5616 number yesterday and the wait time was over 4 hours! The only reason I got through was because of Claimyr. For new claims specifically, some people have better luck with the alternative number: 1-866-333-4606, but that's mostly for already-filed claim questions.

Hey! I went through this exact same frustration last month. The 1-800-300-5616 number everyone's mentioning is definitely the right one for new claims, but here's what actually worked for me: I used a phone tree bypass trick where you press 1-3-4 really quickly as soon as the automated system starts talking. It skips some of the menus and gets you to the queue faster. Also, Monday mornings are surprisingly better than calling mid-week - I think fewer people think to call then. Have your DD-214 ready too if you're a veteran, and write down your confirmation number when you finally get through! The whole process took about 45 minutes on the phone once I actually reached someone. Don't give up!

Pro tip: if you do get through, ask for a callback number in case you get disconnected. Saved my butt when the call dropped after 2 hours on hold.

I've been dealing with this nightmare for weeks too! What finally worked for me was a combination of strategies - I called at exactly 8:00 AM (not 8:01, but right when they opened), had multiple phones going at once, and when I got the busy signal I immediately hung up and redialed. It took about 45 minutes of constant redialing but I finally got into the queue. Once you're in, DO NOT hang up no matter how long it takes. I waited 3.5 hours but it was worth it. Also, have all your paperwork ready because they move fast once you get someone on the line. Stay strong everyone - persistence really does pay off! 💪

Anyone else think its weird that a government website is this bad? Like, we pay taxes for this stuff. Shouldn't it actually, ya know, work? 🤔

I've been dealing with the same redirect issue! What worked for me was going directly to the EDD homepage and manually navigating to the SDI section instead of using any bookmarked links. Sometimes the old URLs get messed up when they update their site. Also, if you're still stuck, try accessing it through the "Benefits Online" portal - that's been more stable for me lately. Hope this helps!

After trying everything with my claim last year, I finally contacted my state assembly member's office. They have special liaisons who work directly with EDD. Within 3 days of contacting them, my paperwork was magically "found" and processed. Might be worth trying if all else fails.

I went through something similar with my SDI claim for a work injury about 6 months ago. The mail processing backlog is real - I ended up having to resend my paperwork twice before it finally got processed. Here's what worked for me: 1. Resend everything via certified mail with tracking (keep all receipts!) 2. Include a cover letter explaining this is a resubmission due to processing delays 3. Try calling the SDI line early in the morning (around 8:05 AM) - that's when I had the best luck getting through 4. If you have any medical appointments coming up, ask your doctor's office to fax records directly to EDD as backup The whole process took about 7 weeks total for me, but once it finally went through, I got all the back pay. Don't give up! The system is broken but your claim will eventually get processed. In the meantime, see if you can get any emergency assistance from local resources to help with bills.

UPDATE: I finally got through to EDD after using the Claimyr service (which worked really well btw). The rep confirmed my account was compromised, and someone had been certifying falsely since October. They've flagged my claim for fraud investigation and put a hold on the account. I've submitted all my work documentation and filed a police report. The agent said since I reported it myself and there's clear evidence of account compromise (failed payment method change attempts), I likely won't be held responsible for the overpayment. They're sending me formal paperwork to complete for the investigation. Thank you everyone for your help - I would've been lost without your advice!

Wow, what a roller coaster! I'm so glad you figured out your account was compromised rather than just an overpayment issue. That makes such a huge difference in how EDD will handle this. I've been following your story and it's a great reminder for all of us to regularly check our UI Online accounts even when we're not actively claiming benefits. Account takeovers are becoming way more common unfortunately. Really smart of you to take screenshots of everything before making changes - that evidence will be crucial for your case. Hope the investigation goes smoothly and you get fully cleared soon!