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Just received first EDD payment - when will Money Network card arrive?

So I finally got my first unemployment payment processed after waiting for like 3 weeks! I checked my UI Online account and it shows payment was issued yesterday for $682. I'm super relieved but also confused because I don't actually have the money yet? My EDD account says something about Money Network but I never gave them my bank info for direct deposit. Will they automatically mail me one of those debit cards? How long does that usually take to arrive? This is my first time on unemployment so I'm not sure how the payment system works. Thanks for any help!

Freya Pedersen

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Congrats on getting your first payment! Yes, they'll automatically send you a Money Network debit card in the mail. Mine took about 7-10 days to arrive after my first payment was processed. The card comes in a plain white envelope that looks like junk mail, so watch your mailbox carefully! Once you get it, you can set up direct deposit through the Money Network app or website if you want future payments to go straight to your bank account.

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Ravi Gupta

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Thank you! That's a relief. I was worried I'd have to call them to request a card. Will keep an eye out for that envelope!

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Omar Hassan

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ya they send it automatic but MAKE SURE u activate it right away!! mine expired cuz i didnt open the mail for like a month lol

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Ravi Gupta

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Oh no! Thanks for the warning. I'll definitely activate it right away. Do you remember if there were instructions in the envelope about how to activate it?

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Omar Hassan

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ya theres a paper with all the steps. super easy just need your ssn and make a pin

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Chloe Anderson

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The Money Network card is automatically mailed after your first payment is processed. Here's what to know: 1. It typically takes 5-7 business days to arrive, but can take up to 10 days 2. The envelope is plain white with a return address from Tennessee 3. All future payments will be loaded onto this same card 4. You can set up direct deposit via the Money Network mobile app or website once you receive the card 5. Keep your card even after you return to work - if you need unemployment again within 3 years, they'll use the same card I recommend setting up account alerts so you know when deposits hit. Also, you get free withdrawals at Bank of America ATMs.

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Ravi Gupta

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This is super helpful, thank you! Good to know it comes from Tennessee - I'll be watching for that. And great tip about keeping the card for future use!

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Diego Vargas

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my sister had to wait almost 3 weeks for her card last month when everyone was getting laid off...EDD is SO backed up rn

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Chloe Anderson

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That's unusual - if anyone waits more than 10 business days for their Money Network card, they should contact EDD or Money Network directly. There might have been an issue with the mail or the card could have been sent to an outdated address.

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CosmicCruiser

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I HATE those stupid Money Network cards!!! They charged me fees for everything and their customer service is TERRIBLE. Just set up direct deposit as soon as you get the card. Don't even bother using the card itself if possible.

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Freya Pedersen

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I've had a totally different experience. I've been using my Money Network card for months with no fees for normal purchases or Bank of America ATM withdrawals. There are only fees for certain things like international transactions or if you use an out-of-network ATM. Maybe you were using ATMs that charge fees?

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If you're having trouble waiting for your card or need to check on your payment status, I highly recommend using Claimyr to get through to an EDD representative. I was waiting forever for my card and couldn't get through on the phone, but Claimyr got me connected to a rep in about 20 minutes instead of spending days redialing. They can check if your card was actually mailed and when. Saved me so much stress! You can see how it works at claimyr.com or check out their demo at https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km

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Ravi Gupta

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Thanks for the suggestion! If my card doesn't show up in the next week or so, I might try that. Did the EDD rep you talked to help resolve your card issue?

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Yes! Turns out they had my old address on file even though I updated it online. The rep was able to cancel the first card and expedite a new one to my correct address. Would've never figured that out without actually talking to someone.

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Sean Doyle

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One important thing to note: Once you receive your Money Network card, you need to create an account on their website or app to manage your funds effectively. This allows you to: - Set up direct deposit to your personal bank account - Check your balance and transaction history - Set up alerts for new deposits - Report a lost or stolen card Keep in mind that the first payment might include multiple weeks if you had any retroactive certification periods. That's why your initial payment amount might be larger than subsequent payments. Don't forget to continue certifying for benefits every two weeks, even while waiting for your card to arrive. Your payments will continue to be processed and added to your card balance as long as you certify on time.

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Ravi Gupta

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Thank you for all this information! Yes, my payment was for two weeks combined, which explains the amount. I'll definitely keep certifying while I wait for the card. Is the Money Network website user-friendly? I'm not very tech savvy.

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Sean Doyle

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The Money Network website is fairly straightforward, but their mobile app is even easier to use in my opinion. Just search for "Money Network" in your app store. You'll need the card in hand to register since you'll need the card number and other details from it. The setup takes about 5 minutes.

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Omar Hassan

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btw anyone know if u can use the money network card for online shopping?? like amazon and stuff

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Freya Pedersen

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Yes, you can use it anywhere that accepts Visa debit cards - including Amazon, online bill payments, and regular stores. It works just like any normal debit card for shopping online or in person.

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