Most reliable phone number to reach an EDD rep in 2025? (Changed again!)

The main number (1-800-300-5616) is still the correct one to reach a rep, but you need to time it right and know which prompts to use. Call exactly at 8:01am, not 8:00am (their system is still booting at 8:00 sharp). Then use these prompts: 1, then wait for the next menu, then 2, then 4. That sequence has gotten me through twice this month. You have to be super persistent though - I usually have to try 3-4 days in a row before getting through.

OMG why cant they just hire more people?? im in the same boat and havent been able to reach ANYBODY in weeks!!! their system is complete GARBAGE

I was dealing with this exact same situation last month with my identity verification. The main line (1-800-300-5616) is technically correct, but nearly impossible to get through during peak times. I've found the tier 2 specialists are the only ones who can actually help with ID verification issues. The key is to reach a tier 1 rep first, then ask to be transferred to a tier 2 specialist. Tier 1 can't do much for ID verification, so don't waste time explaining your whole situation to them. Also, many people don't know this, but EDD has dedicated lines for specific issues. For identity verification specifically, try 1-866-401-2849, though they've been changing numbers frequently in 2025 to manage call volume. If you can't get through after a week of trying, I'd honestly recommend using Claimyr. I was skeptical at first, but after two weeks of failed attempts, I tried it and got connected to an EDD rep in about 40 minutes. Their system basically automates the calling process for you. You can see how it works in their demo video: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km The site is claimyr.com if you want to check it out. It was worth it for me to finally get my ID verification sorted out and my payments started coming through within days after speaking with a tier 2 rep.

just a heads up, i called edd yesterday an got through after only 13 attempts lol. but srsly tho don't call on mondays, everyone calls on mondays and the system crashes like every hour. thursdays seem better for some reason. also the 866 number that person mentioned above doesn't work anymore for ID verification, they changed it in february. good luck!

I had an identity verification problem in January that held up my claim for almost 7 weeks. It was a nightmare trying to reach someone. What finally worked for me was calling exactly at 8:15am (not 8am when everyone else is calling) and using the Spanish line option, then immediately asking for an English speaker when someone answered. The wait times on the Spanish line are often much shorter. Also, don't hang up if you get put on hold! I made that mistake several times thinking it was another dead end, but if you're on hold, you're actually in the queue. Regarding the identity verification specifically - have you checked your UI Online account to see if there's a task waiting for you to complete? Sometimes they need additional documents but the notification gets lost in the mail. Log in and check the "Upload Documents" section just to be sure.

I feel your pain!! EDD is the worst. I had to call 127 times in one day before I got through last month. Try calling at 4:01pm, sometimes they answer right before closing time because the queue is emptying out.

I work at a career center and help ppl with EDD issues all day. The phone system is frustrating for everyone right now. One tip nobody mentioned - if you have a friend or family member, have them call on a separate phone at the same time as you. Double your chances of getting through. Also, make sure you're calling from the exact phone number listed on your EDD account. Their system sometimes prioritizes calls from phones they recognize.

Just wanted to follow up on my earlier comment - I noticed you mentioned an identity verification issue specifically. For that particular problem, have you also tried uploading your documents again through UI Online? Sometimes their system doesn't process the verification correctly the first time, even if it shows as "received" on your end. Go to UI Online → Upload Documents → Choose "Identity Verification" from the dropdown → Submit clear photos of your ID and a utility bill or bank statement with your name and address. I had to do this twice before my verification went through. Worth a try while you're also attempting to call.

I saw your follow-up about checking UI Online and the pending verification status. That's exactly what happened to me. When you do get through to a representative, make sure to ask them specifically: "Is there any action needed on my part for the identity verification, or is it just in queue for review?" Sometimes their internal notes will show something is needed even though nothing appears in your online portal. In my case, they needed a clearer copy of my driver's license even though the system had marked my documents as "received." The tier 2 specialists can also sometimes complete the verification while you're on the phone if they have all the right documentation in front of them. That's why it's so important to get through to the right department.

I tried calling for 2 weeks with no luck. Friend told me about Claimyr and I got through in 30 mins. Best $20 I ever spent lol

UPDATE: I finally got through today! For anyone finding this thread later, here's what worked: Called at 8:17am (after the initial 8am rush), used prompt sequence 1-2-4 as suggested, waited on hold for about 50 minutes, then got connected to a rep. Turns out there was a mismatch between my ID.me verification and my claim info (my address on one was slightly different than the other). The rep fixed it immediately and said my payments should be processed within 48 hours. Thank you all SO MUCH for your help and suggestions! I would have never figured this out from the automated system or website alone.