Got a Black Brinks Armored Mastercard from EDD - Is this the right payment card?

Yes, that black Brinks Armored Mastercard IS the Money Network card for your EDD benefits. They changed the design in late 2024, but it's the same thing. I got mine a few months ago when I filed. Go ahead and activate it - there should be instructions included or a sticker on the card with the activation number. Once activated, you can check your balance online through the Money Network website or download their app (which works better than the website IMO). The funds will be deposited to that card whenever your certifications are approved.

congrats on getting your card so fast! took me like 3 weeks to get mine in december. make sure u set up direct deposit if u dont want to use the card. u can transfer the $ to ur bank

That black Mastercard is definitely the right card, but be careful with the fees! They charge you for ATM withdrawals after the first one each deposit period and also for checking your balance at ATMs. I learned this the hard way and lost about $14 in fees my first month. The Money Network app is free to use though, and you can transfer funds to your personal bank account for free (takes 3-5 business days). Also, don't forget you still need to certify for benefits every two weeks or your payments will stop. Even with the card in hand, no money gets loaded until you complete those certifications and they're approved.

Is it actually black? Mine is dark blue from last year... wonder if they changed it again? Mine says Money Network on it though.

I've been dealing with EDD payment issues for months now and can confirm that's the correct card. However, if you're experiencing any issues with your claim or need to speak with an EDD representative (which you likely will at some point - almost everyone does), I highly recommend using Claimyr. It's a service that helps you get through to an actual EDD agent instead of dealing with the constant busy signals and disconnections. I wasted two weeks trying to call EDD myself before a friend told me about Claimyr. Their system gets you in the call queue and then connects you with an EDD rep. Saved me hours of frustration. Check out their demo video to see how it works: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km or visit claimyr.com. Just sharing what worked for me!

THAT CARD IS TOTALLY A SCAM!!! EDD only sends BLUE cards with the VISA logo not Mastercard! Call EDD immediately and report it!!! Someone probably stole your identity and filed a fake claim!!

One more thing to mention - make sure you keep that card even after you return to work. If you ever need to file for unemployment again (hopefully not!), they'll reuse the same card rather than sending a new one. I made the mistake of cutting mine up after I found a job, then had to wait three weeks for a replacement when I needed benefits again during a temporary layoff.

Don't forget to check if your card has money on it yet! Just because you got the card doesn't mean funds have been loaded. You need to certify first, and then it usually takes 1-2 days after certification approval for the money to hit your card. I got all excited when my card came, only to find it had a $0 balance lol

Just wanted to add that when you do get your first payment, don't be surprised if it takes a few extra days to process initially. My first certification was approved on a Tuesday, but the funds didn't hit my card until Friday. After that, subsequent payments have been much faster - usually next day. Also, make sure you save the Money Network customer service number (it's on the back of your card) in case you ever need to report the card lost or stolen. Unlike regular bank cards, there can be delays getting replacements since it goes through EDD's system. Good luck with your job search!