Update: Thanks everyone for the help! I ended up going to the Bank of America on Watt Ave and was able to withdraw $600 with no fees. Turns out that specific ATM has a $600 limit per transaction, but that was enough for what I needed today. I also downloaded the Money Network app which is actually pretty helpful for finding ATMs and checking my balance. Going to look into direct deposit for next time!

i think u can also get cashback at grocery stores when u buy something with the edd card and they dont charge fees for that. i always just buy a candy bar at safeway and get $100 cashback

@OP When you file, make sure you mention your Nevada employment upfront. If you don't, and they later discover it, they might flag your claim for potential fraud which creates a whole new headache. Better to disclose everything from the start. Also, after you file, you'll need to certify every two weeks - don't miss these certifications or your payments will be delayed.

Yes, you certify online through UI Online every two weeks. It's basically answering questions about whether you were available for work, looking for work, and if you earned any income during each week. Set calendar reminders because it's easy to forget and miss your certification window.

my brothers girlfrend tried to switch to checks but the edd website kept giving her errors so she had to call and the lady on the phone said theyre phasing out paper checks and pushing everyone to direct deposit by end of 2025 anyway

Update: I was able to switch to direct deposit! The option was right there in UI Online under Payment Preferences. Thanks everyone for your help! I had NO idea direct deposit was an option - the EDD never mentioned this when I filed my claim. Hopefully this will solve all my payment headaches.

Has anyone else noticed that EDD seems to be processing claims faster lately? When I applied last year it took forever, but my friend just applied last month and got approved in like 10 days. Maybe things are improving?

Thank you all SO much for the helpful information! I feel much better about applying now. I'm going to gather all my employment info and submit my application today. Fingers crossed that it goes through without any issues. I'll update once I hear something back from EDD.

Just wanted to say I'm going thru something similar right now with EDD after working for a fitness company as a "contractor" but they controlled EVERYTHING. The key is to be super detailed in your application about how they treated you like an employee. And dont get discouraged if u get denied at first - appeal appeal appeal!!!!!

To add some important information: when you file your UI claim, you'll need to list your former company as an employer even though they paid you as a contractor. During the subsequent EDD interview, be prepared to explain specifically how they controlled your work (schedule, methods, tools provided, training requirements, etc.). Under California law, the company must prove ALL THREE parts of the ABC test to classify you as a contractor: A) You were free from their control and direction B) Your work was outside their usual business C) You were customarily engaged in an independently established trade or business If they fail ANY of these tests, you should be classified as an employee. Based on what you've shared, it sounds like they fail at least part A, possibly others. Expect the company to contest this, as they'll be liable for unemployment taxes if EDD rules in your favor. Document everything and be consistent in your statements.