EDD payment stuck on pending after first certification - normal or problem?

same here my first cert took like 10 days to go from pending to paid dont worry

10 DAYS?? I can't wait that long! Did they tell you why it took so long?

First certifications often take longer to process because EDD has to verify all your information. This is actually normal and not something to panic about yet. In my experience, the first payment can take anywhere from 3-10 business days, even though subsequent payments are usually faster (24-48 hours). If your claim has any potential issues (like if your employer contests your eligibility), it could take even longer to resolve.

Thank you so much for explaining! The EDD website doesn't say anything about the first one taking longer. Did you also have to wait for the Money Network card to arrive separately?

DONT JUST WAIT! Call them NOW!!! My claim was stuck \

This is true - sometimes there are flags on accounts that only a rep can clear. But calling EDD is notoriously difficult. I used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to an agent after trying for days on my own. They have a system that calls for you and gets you in the queue. Saved me hours of redial hell. You can see how it works here: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km

Didn't know that was even a thing! I'll check it out if mine doesn't change by Friday. Thank you!

I certified on Sunday too (not my first time though) and mine switched to paid yesterday. The first time definitely takes longer. Also they might be doing an eligibility interview with you which adds time. Did you check your inbox in UI Online for any messages?

Just checked and don't see any messages or interview scheduled. Nothing in my email either. Should I be looking somewhere else?

The first certification often gets flagged for identity verification or work search requirements. Two things you can do: 1) Check if there's any action needed in your UI Online account under

sometimes the work search thing doesn't even show up as a notification they just randomly hold it

That's true. The system isn't perfect. That's why I recommend calling after 7 days even if there are no notifications.

my friend got a job at target and her benefits got canceled cause she didnt report it right away so shes paying back like $1200 now lol so make sure u report everything right

This is really important advice. Always report any income during your certification periods exactly as earned. Unreported income is the #1 cause of overpayment notices and can lead to penalty weeks on future claims.

UPDATE: My payment status just changed to PAID about an hour ago! Thanks everyone for your help and advice. I was definitely panicking for nothing. Looks like it took about 4 days total to process. Now I just need to wait for that Money Network card to arrive!

nice!! told u it would work out. the card takes like a week fyi

A whole week?? Ugh this process is so slow 😭