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Can't recover EDD password without CAN number - never received it after 2 months

I'm at my wit's end trying to access my EDD account! I filed my unemployment claim about 2 months ago and received my award letter, claim forms, and all the other paperwork, but somehow my Customer Account Number (CAN) was never included in any of the documents they sent me. Now I'm trying to log into UI Online but I can't remember my password (it's been weeks since I created the account), and the password recovery is asking for my CAN number that I don't have! I've tried calling EDD countless times but just get the 'too many callers' message and get disconnected. Has anyone else had this problem? Is there another way to retrieve my CAN number without calling? I'm worried about missing my certification deadline and losing benefits.

Aisha Ali

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You have a few options for retrieving your CAN number without endless phone calls: 1. Check ALL your mail carefully - sometimes the CAN comes separately or is printed in a non-obvious location on one of your EDD documents (check the corners and footers of every page). 2. If you have access to the email account you used when registering, try the 'Forgot Username' option first - sometimes this works even if you can't get past the password reset. 3. Visit an EDD office in person with your ID - they can verify your identity and provide your CAN number. Bring multiple forms of ID and your EDD documents. 4. Try calling exactly at 8:01 AM when they open - sometimes you can get through in those first few minutes.

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Mateo Gonzalez

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Thanks for the suggestions! I've triple-checked all my paperwork and there's definitely no CAN number anywhere. I tried the Forgot Username option but it still asks for either SSN+CAN or personal info that doesn't match what I entered when I registered (I might have made a typo or something). Visiting an office might be my best option - do you know if I need an appointment?

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Ethan Moore

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omg i had this EXACT problem last year!!! so frustrating! I ended up having to get a whole new account because nobody could help me. wasted like 6 weeks of benefits because of their stupid system error. the EDD is such a mess!!!

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Mateo Gonzalez

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Oh no, that's what I'm afraid of! Did you have to file a new claim? I really don't want to start over after waiting 2 months already. This is so stressful.

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Yuki Nakamura

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I had a similar issue but with my EDD ID number instead of CAN. What worked for me was using Claimyr to connect with an EDD rep. I was skeptical but after trying for weeks to get through, I used their service and got connected to an agent in about 20 minutes who fixed everything. Check out their video demo: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km and website claimyr.com - they bypass the hold system somehow. The rep I spoke with was able to verify my identity and provide my missing info instantly.

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StarSurfer

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does that service actually work?? seems to good to be true tbh. ive been trying to reach edd for 2 weeks straight

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Yuki Nakamura

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It really did work for me! I was connected within about 20 minutes. The EDD rep told me they get tons of calls about missing CAN numbers - apparently it's a common issue with their mailing system.

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Carmen Reyes

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I work as an employment counselor and see this issue frequently. Here's what you need to know: The CAN number should have been sent in a separate letter titled "EDD Customer Account Number Notification" typically within 10 days of registration. Since you never received it, this indicates either: 1. A mailing error on EDD's part 2. Possible address discrepancy between your application and your actual mailing address 3. The letter was lost in transit The most efficient solution IS to speak with an EDD representative directly. They can verify your identity and either provide your CAN over the phone or mail a replacement letter. For immediate access, request they help you set up alternate authentication methods for your account. Be aware that requesting a new CAN entirely is NOT recommended as it can create duplicate accounts in their system, potentially causing payment delays.

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Mateo Gonzalez

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Thank you for the detailed explanation! I'm pretty sure my address is correct since I received all the other EDD mail. Sounds like talking to a rep is really my only option. I'll try the Claimyr service the other commenter mentioned - at this point I'm desperate enough to try anything to get this resolved before my next certification is due.

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Andre Moreau

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just a heads up dont bother with the online contact form they never respond!!!! i waited 3 weeks for a response about my missing CAN # and nothing. Absolute waste of time. You HAVE to call or go in person theres no other way sadly

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Unfortunately, this is correct. The Contact EDD online form is primarily for general questions, not account-specific issues requiring identity verification. Missing CAN numbers fall into their 'high security' category requiring direct contact. The system is designed this way to prevent identity theft, though it creates these frustrating situations.

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StarSurfer

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i think i still have the paper with instructions on what to do if you lost your CAN number... lemme check... ok it says you need to call 1-800-300-5616 but we all know thats impossible lol. it also mentions you can go to an edd office with state id + ss card + any edd paperwork you have and they can help you. maybe try tuesdays? i heard thats their slowest day

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Mateo Gonzalez

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Tuesday might be a good idea! I'll definitely bring all my documentation. Hoping they don't make me start the whole process over again.

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To clarify some misinformation in this thread: a missing CAN number is a common issue that does NOT require creating a new claim. EDD has established protocols for this specific situation. Your options in priority order: 1. Call the Identity Verification line at 1-866-401-2849 rather than the main number. This specialized line often has shorter wait times and can assist with CAN issues. 2. Visit an America's Job Center of California (AJCC) location in person - no appointment necessary for document verification assistance. 3. Submit a written request for your CAN by mail including photocopies of your ID, Social Security card, and claim documents to the address on your award letter. Note that your benefits will not be interrupted while resolving this access issue as long as you continue certifying by phone (EDD Tele-Cert) at 1-866-333-4606 until you regain online access.

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Mateo Gonzalez

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Thank you SO MUCH for this information! I had no idea about the Identity Verification line or that I could certify by phone in the meantime. I'll try that specialized number first thing tomorrow morning. This is extremely helpful!

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Yuki Nakamura

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Just wanted to update - I used Claimyr this morning and got through to EDD in about 15 minutes. The rep verified my identity and gave me my CAN number over the phone! I was able to reset my password and access my account right away. Such a relief after weeks of stress. They also said I can request to have a new CAN letter mailed to me as a backup.

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Mateo Gonzalez

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THANK YOU for sharing this update! I'm going to try Claimyr right now. So glad to hear you got it resolved quickly!

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