Can my dad switch from mailed unemployment claims to EDD UI Online? Complete newbie questions

Yes, he can absolutely switch to online even if he initially files by mail! I did exactly this with my mom last year. First, have him complete the paper application since he's comfortable with that. Once he gets his EDD Customer Account Number in the mail (should take 10-14 days after applying), you can help him register for UI Online. Just go to edd.ca.gov and click "Register or manage account" and follow the steps. He'll need his SSN, EDD Customer Account Number, and some basic personal info. Massive timesaver to go online - he can certify for benefits immediately when they're due instead of waiting for mail forms, plus he can see payment status in real-time. The online certifications usually process within 1-2 days vs 7-10+ days for mailed forms. Here's a video that explains how to set up an account: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km Also check out claimyr.com if he encounters any issues that need speaking with an actual EDD rep - saved me hours of redial hell.

im 100% for online its way faster. my neighbor did paper forms and waited FOREVER for checks. online u can get direct deposit set up and get paid in like 2 days after certifying

I strongly recommend starting online from the beginning. Here's why: 1. The paper application still has to be entered into their computer system by an EDD employee, which adds days of processing time 2. Mail can get lost, leading to claim delays (happened to my brother) 3. With online, you get immediate confirmation your application was received 4. Your dad will need to certify for benefits every two weeks - doing this by mail means he'll always be waiting for checks 5. UI Online gives access to message history, claim status, and payment details all in one place If your dad is uncomfortable with computers, help him file online while sitting with him. That's what I did with my father-in-law. You'll save him weeks of potential delays and frustration. The online system isn't perfect, but it's significantly faster than paper forms.

Let me clarify a few things about switching from paper to online with EDD: 1. Yes, your father can start with a paper application and later create a UI Online account once he receives his EDD Customer Account Number. 2. However, there are significant advantages to filing online from the start: - Initial claims process 3-5 days faster on average - The system immediately flags any application errors that would otherwise delay processing - He'll receive an immediate confirmation number 3. For bi-weekly certifications: - Paper: Mail forms take 10-14 days for processing and payment - UI Online: Typically processes within 24-48 hours 4. For payment methods: - All new claimants receive a Money Network debit card regardless of application method - Once he has UI Online access, he can set up direct deposit to his bank account 5. For account management: - UI Online lets him check payment status, certification due dates, and remaining claim balance - He can update contact information instantly - EDD sends email notifications for important updates I understand technology hesitancy, but in this case, the online system offers significant advantages that will get benefits to him much faster.

my cousin tried switching from paper to online last month & somehow edd thought he was filing a new claim?? it was a huge mess, had to call them like 50 times to fix it. just pick one method & stick with it imo

One more important point - if your dad does file by paper, make sure he keeps copies of EVERYTHING before mailing. Take photos or make photocopies of his completed application and any documents he sends. EDD occasionally loses paperwork, and having proof of what was submitted and when can save a lot of headaches if there are problems.

I filed by mail originally (in 2023) because their website was down for maintenance the weekend I got laid off. Took almost 3 weeks just to get my account number! Once I got online access, everything moved so much faster. One tip: if your dad does need to call EDD for anything, try using Claimyr.com - they helped me get through to a rep in about 20 minutes when I couldn't get through on my own after days of trying. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km that shows how it works. Totally worth it when you're dealing with time-sensitive claim issues.

wait isnt UI Online different from SDI online? my wife uses SDI online for disability but I thought unemployment was different??

Just wanted to add something about the certification process - even if your dad starts with paper, once he creates a UI Online account, he can immediately switch to online certification. He doesn't need to continue with paper forms. The system links to his existing claim automatically using his SSN and EDD Customer Account Number during registration.