EDD Fax number (1866-215-9159) not working for claim documents - anyone else having issues?

That fax number has been having issues for weeks. I successfully sent docs last month but had to try at really odd hours (like 11pm) when fewer people were trying. Another option is to mail the documents with tracking to their processing center, though that takes longer. Make sure to keep proof you attempted to send it before the deadline - take screenshots of failed fax confirmations or get a receipt from FedEx showing you tried. You can also try uploading documents directly through UI Online if they're for a regular unemployment claim - look under 'Upload Documents' in your account menu.

omg i hate that stupid fax number!! i tried like 20 times last week and NOTHING. finally got through at like 6am on sunday morning. so ridiculous they still use fax machines in 2025 lolol

Call them directly and explain the fax issues. They might give you an extension on the deadline or provide an alternate submission method. The EDD systems are notoriously unreliable, but they usually make adjustments if you can prove you've been trying to submit on time. Document all your attempts with dates/times, and take screenshots of any error messages. I had a similar issue and they gave me a 3-day extension once I could get through to a rep.

the fax # works just fine i used it yesterday morning no problems at all maybe check ur fax machine settings

This is why I HATE dealing with EDD!!! Their systems are always breaking down when you need them most. I had the EXACT same problem with that fax number last month when I was trying to submit my appeal documents. I ended up having to DRIVE TWO HOURS to an actual EDD office and hand-deliver my paperwork because I couldn't risk missing my deadline. If you're close to an office, that might be your safest bet at this point. Make sure to get a receipt and the name of who you give it to!!!!!

I work at a legal aid organization that helps people with EDD issues, and the fax problems are a common complaint. Here's what I recommend: 1. Try faxing during off-hours (midnight-6am) 2. Call EDD and request an extension due to technical difficulties 3. If your documents are for identity verification, try using ID.me instead 4. Send documents via certified mail with return receipt AND keep the tracking info 5. Document all your failed attempts (screenshots, receipts from fax services) The key is to have proof you attempted to comply with the deadline. Under EDD regulations, they must consider technical difficulties on their end as a valid reason for late submission. Keep detailed records of every attempt, including dates, times, and error messages.

UPDATE: I just got off the phone with EDD (finally reached them after using Claimyr's callback service). The rep confirmed they're having issues with that fax number and gave me an alternative number to use: 1-916-464-XXXX. She also said they're aware of the technical problems and are automatically extending deadlines by 5 business days for anyone trying to fax documents this week. Hope this helps someone else!

Ugh I remember when I had to deal with this last year. So my brother in law works for a company that does something with fax machines (i forget what exactly) and he told me that those toll free fax numbers often get overwhelmed because they can only handle like 5-10 faxes at once. So when hundreds of people are trying to fax their stuff all day it just keeps getting busy signals. I ended up mailing my stuff in but got penalized for being late even tho it wasnt my fault! Maybe try one of those online fax services instead of a real fax machine? Just a thought.

SUCCESS UPDATE: After many failed attempts, I finally got through! For anyone facing the same issue - I took everyone's advice and tried faxing at 1:15am (when I got up to use the bathroom lol) and it went through immediately. I also called using that Claimyr service someone mentioned above and got a confirmation from a rep that they received my documents and made a note about all my previous attempts. Thank you all SO MUCH for your help! What a stressful experience.