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EDD put security lock on my Bank of America card - can't get through to remove it

So frustrated right now! I just received my new Bank of America EDD debit card in the mail yesterday and tried to activate it, but there's apparently a security lock on it that was placed by EDD themselves. The automated system specifically said 'security lock placed by the government agency.' I've been trying to call EDD for the past 2 days straight - probably dialed the number 50+ times - and either get the 'we're experiencing high call volume' message or it just disconnects me. I need this money for rent that's due in 4 days! Has anyone dealt with this security lock issue before? Is there a specific department I should be asking for when/if I finally get through? Or a way to remove it through the BoA app or website? Seriously at my wit's end here.

I had the EXACT same issue back in January! It's incredibly frustrating, but there's actually a solution that worked for me. I was going crazy trying to get through to EDD for days when someone recommended using Claimyr.com to get through to an EDD rep. It basically keeps dialing for you and calls you when it connects. Saved me hours of redial hell. There's a video showing how it works here: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km Once I got through, I asked specifically for the claims department and explained about the security lock. Turns out it was placed because they couldn't verify my identity properly. The rep was able to remove it on the spot, and my card worked within 24 hours. Hope this helps!

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Aisha Jackson

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Thanks for this suggestion! Did you have to provide any additional verification when you finally got through to them? And did your funds become available immediately after they removed the lock or was there still a waiting period?

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Lilly Curtis

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This is a common issue with new EDD Bank of America cards. The security lock is typically placed when there's an identity verification flag on your account or unusual activity detected. Here's what you need to do: 1. Keep calling the EDD customer service line (I know it's frustrating) 2. When you get through, ask specifically for the "identity verification department" 3. Have your ID documents ready (driver's license, passport, etc.) 4. They might need to conduct an additional eligibility interview You can also try calling Bank of America's EDD customer service line at 1-866-692-9374, but they'll usually just redirect you to EDD since they don't have authority to remove agency-placed locks. Don't try to create workarounds through the BoA app - that won't solve an EDD-placed security lock. I've helped several people through this process, and it always requires direct contact with EDD.

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Leo Simmons

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this is right i had the same issue and BOA couldnt do anything said i had to talk to EDD directly

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Lindsey Fry

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UGH THE EDD IS THE WORST!!! I've been dealing with them for months and it's always something!! First my claim was pending for 6 weeks, then they said I needed to verify my ID AGAIN, and now I'm getting partial payments with no explanation why. The whole system is designed to make you give up. For your card issue - have you tried calling right when they open at 8am? That's sometimes worked for me in the past. Also try the ask EDD feature on the website and specifically mention it's an URGENT payment issue with a security lock. Sometimes they'll call you back within 24-48 hours on those. GOOD LUCK!!!

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Aisha Jackson

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I'll definitely try calling right at 8am tomorrow. I tried the Ask EDD feature but I only got an automated response saying they'd get back to me within 5-7 business days... which doesn't help with rent being due so soon! :

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Saleem Vaziri

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have you checked if you can transfer the money from the card to your bank account through the b of a website? sometimes even with a security lock you can still do transfers just not use the card for purchases. worth a shot.

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Lilly Curtis

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Unfortunately, an EDD-placed security lock prevents any transaction types, including transfers. It's a complete freeze on the account until EDD specifically removes it. It's different from the standard card locks that customers can place and remove themselves.

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Kayla Morgan

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I went through this exact nightmare in February! If you're desperate and near an actual Bank of America branch, go there in person with ALL your identification documents. In my case, they couldn't remove the EDD lock, but the branch manager called a special internal number and got me connected with an EDD representative right there in the bank. I had to verify my identity again (make sure you have your Social Security card, ID, and a utility bill or something with your address). The EDD representative cleared the lock while I was on the phone, and I was able to access my funds about 4 hours later. If rent is due soon, this hands-on approach might be faster than waiting on hold forever!

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Aisha Jackson

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That's really helpful advice - thank you! There's a BoA branch about 15 minutes from me, so I'll try that tomorrow if the morning calls don't work out. I appreciate you sharing what worked for you!

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James Maki

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Just to add some clarity about these security locks - they're typically placed on new cards due to one of these reasons: 1. Identity verification issues in your claim 2. Address mismatch between your EDD profile and what Bank of America has 3. Suspected fraud prevention measures 4. Multiple failed login attempts to UI Online When you do reach EDD, be prepared to answer questions about your claim history, previous employers, and verify personal information. The representative will need to confirm you're the rightful claimant. In most cases, once removed, the lock is lifted within 24-48 hours, though some claimants report it working much faster. If you're facing an immediate financial emergency, be sure to mention that to the representative.

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thnx for explaining this! i always wondered why these locks happen in the 1st place

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Leo Simmons

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my cousin had same problem and she went to bank and they said only edd can fix it... she finally got thru by calling at exactly 8:01am but had to wait on hold for 1.5 hrs so dont hang up

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Lindsey Fry

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YES THIS IS KEY - once you get in the queue DO NOT HANG UP no matter how long it takes!!! The system is horrible but if you get in line you have to stay there!

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Just checking back - any luck getting through to EDD? Did you try Claimyr or the bank visit approach? I'm invested in your story now and hoping you got it resolved before rent was due!

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Aisha Jackson

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Thank you for checking back! I actually tried the Claimyr service you recommended and got through to EDD yesterday afternoon. You were right - they said it was an identity verification issue. They removed the lock and told me it would take 24-48 hours to process. I just checked my account this morning and the funds are available now! Thank goodness, because rent is due tomorrow. Really appreciate everyone's help here!

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